For car enthusiasts who need practicality without sacrificing driving thrills, the idea of a 4-door sports car is incredibly appealing. While true sports cars might traditionally come with two doors, the demand for family-friendly yet exciting vehicles has given rise to a fantastic segment of 4-door models that deliver both performance and everyday usability. Finding a balance of sporty performance and affordability can be tricky, but there are some genuinely cool 4-door sports cars available without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a sedan that injects excitement into your daily drive, you might be surprised at the options available. These aren’t just your average sedans; they pack performance-oriented features, stylish designs, and engaging driving dynamics. Let’s dive into some of the coolest 4-door sports cars that prove you can have fun and still be practical.
2017 Dodge Charger SXT
When you think of American muscle, the 2017 Dodge Charger immediately comes to mind. It’s not just a 4-door car; it’s a statement. The Charger SXT stands out as the only 4-door muscle car in its price range, bringing serious attitude and performance without exceeding a reasonable budget. Starting under $30,000, the Charger SXT boasts a potent 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, delivering 292 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels. This power translates to exhilarating acceleration and that classic muscle car feel.
Beyond the engine, the Charger SXT is packed with features that enhance both style and comfort. A leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel gives you command, while 17-inch alloy wheels and distinctive LED lighting – including Dodge’s signature “Racetrack” tail lamps – ensure you’ll turn heads. For those wanting an even bolder look, the available Blacktop appearance package adds an extra layer of cool. Opting for the Charger SXT trim gets you the upgraded 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system, making this muscle sedan as technologically advanced as it is powerful. The 2017 Dodge Charger SXT is a unique blend of muscle car heritage and modern 4-door practicality, making it undeniably cool.
2017 Mazda Mazda3 Sport
For those who appreciate driving purity, the 2017 Mazda Mazda3 Sport embodies the philosophy of “slow car fast.” It’s not about raw horsepower numbers; it’s about the sheer joy of driving. Starting at an incredibly affordable price, the Mazda3 sedan offers a fun and engaging experience that rivals cars costing much more. While the 155-horsepower 4-cylinder engine might not scream “sports car” on paper, the Mazda3’s magic lies in its expertly tuned chassis and responsive handling.
Mazda’s dedication to driving dynamics is evident in the Mazda3 Sport. It features a sophisticated electric power assist steering system and dynamic stability control as standard, providing confidence-inspiring handling in all conditions. The available aero-style body kit adds a sporty visual edge without significantly increasing the price. Drawing on the spirit of the legendary Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Mazda3 Sport proves that a cool 4-door sports car experience can be accessible to everyone. It’s a testament to the idea that driving pleasure comes from the overall package, not just outright power.
2017 Nissan Sentra NISMO
Don’t underestimate the 2017 Nissan Sentra NISMO. While the 2017 Nissan Maxima might be Nissan’s official “4-Door Sports Car,” the Sentra NISMO delivers a surprising dose of sporty performance at a much more accessible price point. For those seeking 4-door sports cars under $30,000, the Sentra NISMO is a hidden gem. It takes the practical Sentra sedan and injects it with genuine performance DNA from Nissan’s renowned NISMO division.
The Sentra NISMO is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 188 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque. But NISMO’s magic goes beyond just the engine. It features a comprehensive performance makeover, including NISMO-tuned suspension and steering systems for sharper handling. Inside, heated NISMO sport seats and a NISMO steering wheel create a sporty cockpit feel. Externally, a functional NISMO rear spoiler and aggressive styling cues set it apart from the standard Sentra. All of this performance and style comes in at a price that’s hard to argue with, making the Sentra NISMO a seriously cool and affordable 4-door sports car.
2017 Honda Civic Si
Honda has long been synonymous with sporty, reliable cars, and the 2017 Honda Civic Si continues this tradition. While the Civic Type R grabs headlines with its extreme performance, the Civic Si offers a more attainable and equally cool entry point into the world of Honda performance. Available as both a coupe and a sedan, the Civic Si provides 4-door practicality with genuine sports car DNA for under $30,000.
The 2017 Civic Si is powered by a lively 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 205 horsepower and 192 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is not just powerful but also incredibly responsive, thanks to its broad power band. Honda engineers equipped the Si with performance-enhancing features like a slick short-throw 6-speed manual transmission, a two-mode adaptive damper system, and a helical limited-slip differential. These upgrades transform the Civic into a seriously fun-to-drive machine, making the Civic Si a top pick for those seeking a cool and engaging 4-door sports car experience without breaking the bank.
2017 Toyota Camry XSE
The 2017 Toyota Camry might be known for its reliability and practicality, but the XSE trim level injects a surprising dose of sporty coolness into this family sedan. Toyota recognized that even Camry drivers might crave a bit more excitement, and the XSE is their answer. While the engine remains the same, the Camry XSE focuses on enhancing the driving experience through upgraded dynamics and sporty styling, proving that even a mainstream sedan can be cool.
The Camry XSE distinguishes itself with a sport-tuned suspension for more agile handling and well-bolstered sports seats to keep you secure during spirited driving. A leather-trimmed steering wheel and a multi-mode 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a dedicated “S” mode further enhance the sporty feel. Visually, the XSE gets a more aggressive front fascia with a black-mesh grille, dark chrome-tinted headlamps, and 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels. The Camry XSE demonstrates that cool 4-door sports cars can come in unexpected packages, blending Toyota’s renowned dependability with a newfound sporty edge.
2017 Kia Optima SX
The 2017 Kia Optima SX brings European-inspired sport sedan style and performance to the affordable 4-door sports car segment. The Optima has always been a stylish sedan, but the SX trim level elevates it to a new level of coolness with its potent turbocharged engine and sport-tuned chassis. For those who want a car that looks as good as it drives, the Optima SX is a compelling option under $30,000.
Under the hood, the Optima SX packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering a robust 240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Kia pairs this engine with a 6-speed Sportmatic automatic transmission with paddle shifters, larger front brakes, and a sport-tuned suspension. A rack-mounted motor-driven power steering system further enhances handling precision. Inside, you’ll find premium features like an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and smartphone integration. The Kia Optima SX pushes the price limit slightly, but it justifies it with a compelling blend of style, performance, and premium features, making it a very cool and well-rounded 4-door sports car.
2018 Subaru WRX
For rally-inspired thrills in a 4-door package, the 2018 Subaru WRX is the go-to choice. Born from Subaru’s rally heritage and sharing its foundation with the legendary WRX STI, the WRX delivers genuine sports car performance with the added benefit of all-wheel drive. If you’re looking for a cool 4-door sports car that can handle any road condition, the WRX is hard to beat in this price range.
The WRX is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder boxer engine, a hallmark of Subaru engineering. This engine produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and confident handling. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system is standard, providing exceptional grip and control in all weather conditions. You can choose between a standard 6-speed manual transmission for purists or an available Sport Lineatronic CVT with paddle shifters for added convenience. The Subaru WRX is a cool and capable 4-door sports car that delivers rally-bred performance and all-weather confidence.
2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
While premium German brands might be out of reach for 4-door sports cars under $30,000, the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI offers a taste of German performance and refinement at an accessible price. Think of it as the sedan version of the iconic VW GTI hot hatch, bringing similar performance and sporty character to a 4-door format. For those who appreciate German engineering and sporty driving dynamics, the Jetta GLI is a cool and compelling option.
The Jetta GLI is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering 210 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine provides brisk acceleration and a fun driving experience. The GLI also comes well-equipped with features that enhance both performance and comfort, including a Fender premium audio system, navigation, sport seats, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is also standard. The Volkswagen Jetta GLI delivers a cool blend of German-inspired performance, features, and value in a 4-door sports car package.
2017 Buick Regal Sport Touring
The 2017 Buick Regal Sport Touring might be a surprising addition to a list of cool 4-door sports cars, but it deserves its spot. Often overlooked, the Regal Sport Touring offers a potent turbocharged engine and a surprisingly sporty character for under $30,000. It’s a cool alternative for those who want something a bit different from the usual suspects in the sports sedan segment.
Stepping up to the Sport Touring trim unlocks a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces an impressive 259 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine output surpasses even some premium sedans in terms of power. Despite its Buick badge, the Regal Sport Touring delivers a genuinely engaging driving experience. It also comes equipped with heated front seats and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot for added comfort and convenience. The Buick Regal Sport Touring proves that cool 4-door sports cars can be found in unexpected places, offering a unique blend of performance and value.
2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport
Rounding out our list of cool and affordable 4-door sports cars is the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport. Borrowing the turbocharged engine from the quirky Hyundai Veloster, the Elantra Sport delivers a surprising level of performance and sporty flair at a very accessible price point. For those seeking maximum bang for their buck in a cool 4-door sports car, the Elantra Sport is a standout choice.
The Elantra Sport’s 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine produces 201 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Hyundai engineers specifically tuned the exhaust system to give the Sport model a more aggressive and sporty sound. Inside, you’ll find a leather-wrapped, flat-bottomed steering wheel, sport-style front seats, and aluminum-alloy pedals. Exterior enhancements include a unique front fascia and grille, aero side skirts, a rear air diffuser, and chrome-tipped dual exhaust outlets. The Hyundai Elantra Sport is a cool and well-equipped 4-door sports car that offers a fun driving experience and a lot of features for its price, proving that sporty driving can be attainable for everyone.
These 4-door sports cars demonstrate that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a cool and exciting driving experience. Whether you prioritize muscle car attitude, rally-inspired performance, or German refinement, there’s a 4-door sports car on this list that can deliver thrills without breaking the bank. Explore these options and discover just how cool and affordable 4-door sports cars can be.
