Finding an exciting sports car that doesn’t cost a fortune can feel like a challenge in today’s market, where the average new car price is soaring. However, the good news for car enthusiasts is that there are still fantastic, fun-to-drive vehicles available without emptying your wallet. For the 2025 model year, we’ve compiled a list of Low Cost Sports Cars, sporty sedans, and hot hatchbacks that deliver driving excitement for under $50,000. Many of these affordable sports cars come from trusted brands like Mazda, Toyota, and Honda, featuring iconic models and exciting newcomers that prove you don’t need to spend big to have fun on the road.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Price: $30,515
The Mazda MX-5 Miata remains the quintessential answer for affordable sports car thrills. Starting at just $30,515, this legendary roadster packs a punch with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Drivers can choose between a crisp six-speed manual gearbox, enhancing the engaging driving experience, or an automatic transmission for easier city driving. Whether you prefer the classic soft top convertible or the retractable fastback (RF) model, the Miata delivers pure, unadulterated sports car fun at a low cost. It’s a top pick for anyone seeking an affordable entry into the world of sports cars.
Toyota GR86
Price: $31,135
Hot on the heels of the Miata in terms of affordability, the rear-wheel-drive Toyota GR86 sports car starts at a compelling $31,135. This coupe boasts a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine, offering a noticeable power bump over the Miata with 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Like the Mazda, the GR86 offers both a six-speed manual and an automatic transmission option. While it comes exclusively as a fixed-roof coupe, this is a minor trade-off for an otherwise exceptional and low cost sports car that delivers sharp handling and engaging performance. The GR86 is a fantastic choice for driving enthusiasts looking for an affordable and thrilling ride.
Honda Civic Si
Price: $31,400
The Honda Civic Si continues to be a popular sporty sedan, blending fun driving dynamics with everyday practicality and affordability. For a starting price of around $31,400 for the 2025 model year, the Civic Si is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. While it might be slightly less powerful than some other sporty sedans, the Civic Si compensates with a standard limited-slip differential, a precise six-speed manual transmission, customizable drive modes, and stylish 18-inch wheels. Importantly, it doesn’t compromise on comfort and features, including a premium Bose sound system, making it a well-rounded and low cost sporty car for daily driving and weekend fun.
Volkswagen GTI
Price: $33,190
The iconic Volkswagen GTI remains a strong contender in the affordable hot hatchback segment. Starting at $33,190, the GTI is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 241 horsepower and a robust 273 pound-feet of torque. While the manual transmission is no longer offered, the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission provides quick and engaging shifts. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels, offering classic hot hatch driving dynamics. The Volkswagen GTI is a low cost sports car that provides a blend of performance, practicality, and iconic styling.
Subaru BRZ
Price: $33,380
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are essentially fraternal twins, sharing the same platform and powertrain, making them both excellent low cost sports car options. The BRZ is powered by the same 2.4-liter Boxer engine as the GR86, producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. However, the BRZ distinguishes itself with standard Subaru StarLink infotainment and EyeSight driver-assistance technology, even on models equipped with the manual transmission. For those seeking enhanced performance, the Subaru BRZ tS model offers a more track-focused STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and a premium leather and suede interior, though at a higher price point. The base BRZ starts at $33,380 for 2025, while the tS variant begins at $37,530.
Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback
Price: $33,515
The Ford Mustang, an enduring symbol of American muscle cars, continues to be surprisingly affordable, especially in its EcoBoost Fastback form. With a starting price of $33,515, the base Mustang EcoBoost packs a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that punches above its weight, delivering 315 horsepower and a substantial 350 pound-feet of torque. This is significantly more power than many traditional sports cars in this price range. It comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, offering classic muscle car driving characteristics. While a manual transmission isn’t available for the EcoBoost, the Mustang EcoBoost Fastback delivers impressive performance and iconic style as a low cost sports car.
Subaru WRX
Price: $33,855
The Subaru WRX offers rally-inspired performance and all-weather capability at a price point only slightly above the Honda Civic Si, making it a compelling low cost sports sedan. Starting at $33,855, the base WRX features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Drivers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. For enthusiasts seeking even greater performance, the WRX tS trim offers upgraded Brembo brakes, revised suspension, and enhanced steering tuning, although this version comes at a higher starting price of $46,875. The standard WRX provides a potent combination of performance and practicality as an affordable sporty car.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Price: $33,940
The Volkswagen Jetta GLI serves as VW’s sedan alternative to the popular GTI hot hatchback, offering similar performance in a more traditional sedan body style, while remaining a low cost sporty car option. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard. The GLI received a refresh for the 2025 model year, including updated exterior styling and interior enhancements. Starting at $33,940, the Jetta GLI remains one of the most affordable sporty sedans available in the US market.
Acura Integra
Price: $34,195
The Acura Integra represents a more premium take on the sporty compact car, positioned as a more upscale alternative to the Honda Civic, but still within the realm of low cost sports cars. Starting at $34,195 for the 2025 model year, the base Integra shares the same 200-horsepower engine as the Civic Si. However, Acura pairs the base model with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard, whereas the Civic Si is exclusively manual. A manual transmission is available for the Integra, but only on the A-Spec and Type S models, which come at higher price points. The Integra offers a blend of sporty driving dynamics and Acura’s signature luxury and refinement at an accessible price.
Mini Cooper S
Price: $34,375
The new Mini Cooper S may not be the most powerful hot hatchback, but it retains the iconic Mini charm and engaging driving dynamics in an affordable package. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, this compact hatchback produces 201 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The Mini Cooper S is celebrated for its nimble handling and playful character, making it a fun and low cost sports car option for urban environments and twisty roads. Starting at a reasonable $34,375 for 2025, the Mini Cooper S offers a unique blend of style and sporty driving.
Mazda3 Turbo
Price: $34,435
Similar to the Mini, Mazda doesn’t explicitly market the Mazda3 Turbo as a hardcore “hot hatchback,” but it certainly packs a punch and offers sporty driving dynamics at an affordable price. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Mazda3 Turbo delivers a robust 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is the sole option for the Turbo trim, and all-wheel drive is standard, providing confident performance in various conditions. The Mazda3 Turbo starts at $34,435 for 2025, offering a refined and powerful driving experience in a practical hatchback body.
Hyundai Elantra N
Price: $35,445
The Hyundai Elantra N is a spirited four-door sports sedan that brings serious performance to the low cost sports car segment. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, and offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed dual-clutch. Unlike the Subaru WRX, the Elantra N is exclusively front-wheel drive. Hyundai updated the Elantra N for the 2024 model year, and the 2025 model carries over unchanged with a starting price of $35,445. The Elantra N is known for its engaging handling, powerful engine, and track-ready capabilities at an affordable price.
Toyota GR Corolla
Price: $39,995
The Toyota GR Corolla is arguably one of the most exciting cars on this list, bringing rally-inspired performance and hatchback practicality to the low cost sports car market. This five-door hatchback features all-wheel drive and a potent three-cylinder, turbocharged engine that punches well above its weight, delivering 300 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Initially offered exclusively with a six-speed manual, Toyota has added an eight-speed automatic transmission option for this year, expanding its appeal. The GR Corolla starts at $39,995, offering a unique combination of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability in a low cost package.
Nissan Z
Price: $44,110
The Nissan Z stands out with its striking retro-futuristic styling and modern performance, entering the list as a more premium, yet still relatively low cost sports car. Starting at $44,110, the Z is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine sending power to the rear wheels, producing a substantial 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Eighteen-inch wheels and LED headlights are standard, and buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic gearbox. While a more powerful Z Nismo is available, it comes at a significantly higher price. The base Nissan Z offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and heritage at a relatively accessible price point.
Volkswagen Golf R
Price: $46,890
The Volkswagen Golf R represents a step up in performance from the GTI, offering more power and all-wheel drive, while still remaining within the realm of attainable sports cars. Starting at $46,890, the Golf R packs a more potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 315 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and the Golf R comes exclusively with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. The Golf R delivers rapid acceleration, reaching 60 mph in around 3.9 seconds, making it a seriously quick and capable low cost performance car.
Honda Civic Type R
Price: $47,045
The Honda Civic Type R represents the ultimate expression of Civic performance, positioned above the Si in terms of power and track capability, while still being considered a relatively low cost sports car in its segment. While significantly more expensive than the Si, the Type R boasts a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission option, emphasizing its driver-focused nature. Stopping power is enhanced with four-piston Brembo front brakes. The Type R also features more aggressive styling cues, including a prominent grille opening, hood vent, and a large rear spoiler. The Civic Type R starts at $47,045 for 2025, offering top-tier hot hatchback performance at a relatively accessible price.
Ford Mustang GT
Price: $48,155
Stepping up from the EcoBoost to the Ford Mustang GT unlocks the iconic 5.0-liter V-8 engine, delivering classic American muscle car performance at a still reasonable price. The Mustang GT boasts 486 horsepower and rear-wheel drive. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, appealing to purists, while a quick-shifting 10-speed automatic is available for an additional cost. While higher performance Mustang variants like the Dark Horse exist, the base Mustang GT, starting at $48,155, provides a significant amount of performance and V8 rumble for the money, making it a low cost entry into the world of V8 powered sports cars.
Cadillac CT4-V
Price: $48,690
While the high-performance Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing commands attention (and a higher price), the standard CT4-V offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance at a more accessible price point, qualifying it as a low cost luxury sports sedan. This version is powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine producing 325 horsepower and a generous 380 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds. The CT4-V comes exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission; the manual is reserved for the Blackwing. The Cadillac CT4-V provides a taste of Cadillac’s V-series performance and luxury without the Blackwing’s top-tier price.
Audi S3
Price: $49,995
For those seeking a more refined and luxurious sporty compact sedan, the Audi S3 offers a step up from the Volkswagen GTI with added sophistication and all-wheel drive, while remaining under the $50,000 mark. The Audi S3 features a higher-output turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, now producing 328 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque for the 2025 model year. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard, as is a seven-speed automatic transmission. Starting just under the $50,000 threshold at $49,995 for 2025, the Audi S3 provides a premium and sporty driving experience in a low cost luxury package.
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- Mazda MX-5 Miata – $30,515
- Toyota GR86 – $31,135
- Honda Civic Si – $31,400
- Volkswagen GTI – $33,190
- Subaru BRZ – $33,380
- Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback – $33,515
- Subaru WRX – $33,855
- Volkswagen Jetta GLI – $33,940
- Acura Integra – $34,195
- Mini Cooper S – $34,375
- Mazda3 Turbo – $34,435
- Hyundai Elantra N – $35,445
- Toyota GR Corolla – $39,995
- Nissan Z – $44,110
- Volkswagen Golf R – $46,890
- Honda Civic Type R – $47,045
- Ford Mustang GT – $48,155
- Cadillac CT4-V – $48,690
- Audi S3 – $49,995
