Finding a thrilling new car that doesn’t break the bank can feel like a mission impossible, especially with the average price of a new vehicle hovering around $50,000. But fear not, driving enthusiasts! The good news is that the dream of owning a fun, sporty ride without emptying your savings account is still alive and well. For 2025, there’s a fantastic selection of sports cars, sporty sedans, and even hatchbacks that deliver excitement and performance for under $50,000. Many of these models come from trusted brands like Honda, Mazda, and Toyota, featuring iconic names such as the Miata and exciting newcomers like the GR Corolla. You’ll even discover a few near-luxury options that offer a premium feel without the premium price tag, proving that you don’t need to compromise on fun to stay within budget when searching for the Most Affordable Sports Car.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Price: $30,515
When the conversation turns to affordable, pure driving joy, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is consistently the benchmark. Starting at a tempting $30,515, this quintessential roadster packs a punch with its responsive 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. A crisp six-speed manual gearbox comes standard, offering enthusiasts the engaging driving experience they crave, with an automatic transmission available for those preferring two-pedal driving. Whether you choose the classic soft top for open-air thrills or the sleek retractable fastback (RF) hardtop model, the Miata remains an undisputed champion in the realm of most affordable sports cars, delivering smiles per mile without the hefty price tag.
Toyota GR86
Price: $31,135
Hot on the heels of the Miata in terms of price and driving thrills is the rear-wheel-drive Toyota GR86, starting at just $31,135. This sporty coupe boasts a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine, offering a step up in power compared to the Mazda with 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Drivers can choose between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, both channeling power to the rear wheels for classic sports car handling. While it features a fixed roof, this minor trade-off is easily overlooked when considering the GR86’s exceptional value and performance as a truly affordable sports car that doesn’t skimp on driving excitement.
Honda Civic Si
Price: $31,400
The Honda Civic Si continues to be a top pick for those seeking a sporty sedan that blends fun, practicality, and affordability. Starting at just over $31,000 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 four-doors in its class, the Si compensates with a standard limited-slip differential, a slick six-speed manual transmission, customizable drive modes, and stylish 18-inch wheels. Importantly, it doesn’t sacrifice everyday comfort, offering features like a Bose sound system, making it a well-rounded and affordable sports car option for daily driving and weekend fun.
Volkswagen GTI
Price: $33,190
The iconic Volkswagen GTI remains a vibrant contender in the hot hatchback segment. With a starting price of $33,190, the GTI delivers a compelling blend of performance and practicality. Under the hood, a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine churns out 241 horsepower and a robust 273 pound-feet of torque. While the manual transmission is no longer offered, the standard seven-speed dual-clutch transmission provides quick and engaging shifts, sending power exclusively to the front wheels. The GTI’s reputation for refined performance and everyday usability solidifies its place as a consistently affordable sports car choice for enthusiasts.
Subaru BRZ
Price: $33,380
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are siblings in spirit and engineering, sharing the same platform and potent 2.4-liter Boxer engine, which produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The base BRZ, starting at $33,380 for the 2025 model year, distinguishes itself with standard Subaru StarLink infotainment and EyeSight driver-assistance technology, even on manual transmission models. For those seeking enhanced track capabilities, the Subaru BRZ tS trim offers an upgraded STI suspension, Brembo brakes, and a premium leather-and-suede interior, although at a higher price point of $37,530. Regardless of trim, the BRZ stands as a compelling and affordable sports car option, offering balanced handling and engaging performance.
Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback
Price: $33,515
The Ford Mustang is an enduring symbol of American muscle and surprisingly remains an affordable sports car option in its EcoBoost Fastback form, starting at $33,515. This iconic pony car is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque – significantly more than the Mazda and Toyota sports cars mentioned earlier. Paired with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, the Mustang EcoBoost offers strong performance and iconic styling at an accessible price point. While a manual transmission isn’t available for this trim, the EcoBoost Mustang still provides a thrilling and relatively affordable sports car experience.
Subaru WRX
Price: $33,855
The Subaru WRX offers a significant jump in power compared to the Civic Si for only a slightly higher price. The base WRX, starting at $33,855, features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. For those craving even greater performance, the WRX tS trim upgrades to Brembo brakes and revised suspension and steering tuning, but comes at a higher starting price of $46,875. The standard WRX, however, remains a potent and affordable sports car sedan with rally-inspired performance and standard all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Price: $33,940
The Jetta GLI serves as Volkswagen’s sedan alternative to the popular GTI hot hatch. Priced from $33,940, the GLI packs a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch, both sending power to the front wheels. The 2025 GLI receives updated exterior styling and interior enhancements, further solidifying its position as one of the most affordable sporty cars in the US market, offering a blend of performance and sedan practicality.
Acura Integra
Price: $34,195
The new Integra represents a more premium take on the Civic platform, starting at $34,195 for the 2025 model year. Sharing the same 200-horsepower engine as the Civic Si, the base Integra comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Honda is manual-only. A manual transmission Integra is available, but only on the A-Spec or Type S models, which are priced higher at $39,195 and $54,095 respectively. While positioned as a more luxurious option, the base Integra still offers a degree of sporty driving dynamics at a relatively affordable sports car price point within the Acura lineup.
Mini Cooper S
Price: $34,375
The new Mini Cooper S brings a dose of British charm and sporty handling to the affordable sports car category. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, this compact hatchback produces 201 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. While not the most powerful hot hatch, the Mini Cooper S retains the engaging driving dynamics that have made Minis so beloved. Starting at a reasonable $34,375 for 2025, it offers a unique blend of style, agility, and relative affordability.
Mazda3 Turbo
Price: $34,435
Similar to the Mini, Mazda doesn’t explicitly market the Mazda3 Turbo as a “hot hatchback,” but its performance credentials speak for themselves. Under the hood lies a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 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 comes standard. Priced at $34,435 for 2025, the Mazda3 Turbo provides a compelling combination of performance, all-weather capability, and near-luxury refinement in an affordable sporty car package.
Hyundai Elantra N
Price: $35,445
The Hyundai Elantra N is a standout four-door sports sedan that delivers serious performance at an affordable sports car price. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine cranks out 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed dual-clutch. Unlike the Subaru WRX, the Elantra N is exclusively front-wheel drive. Updated for 2024 and carrying over unchanged for 2025 with a starting price of $35,445, the Elantra N offers track-ready performance and aggressive styling in an accessible package.
Toyota GR Corolla
Price: $39,995
The Toyota GR Corolla injects serious excitement into the affordable sports car hatchback segment. This five-door, all-wheel-drive hot hatch is powered by a unique three-cylinder, turbocharged engine producing an impressive 300 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While initially offered exclusively with a six-speed manual, Toyota has added an eight-speed automatic transmission option for this year. Starting at $39,995, the GR Corolla delivers rally-inspired performance and hatchback versatility, making it a standout choice for driving enthusiasts seeking an affordable and thrilling sports car.
Nissan Z
Price: $44,110
The Nissan Z makes a striking statement with its retro-futuristic styling and modern cabin, placing it within the realm of more affordable sports cars for its performance level. Starting at $44,110, the Z is powered by a potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, sending 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. Standard features include 18-inch wheels and LED headlights, with a choice of a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic gearbox. While a more powerful Z Nismo is available, the standard Z offers a compelling blend of performance and iconic design at a relatively accessible price point.
Volkswagen Golf R
Price: $46,890
Stepping up from the GTI, the Golf R represents the pinnacle of Volkswagen’s hot hatchback performance and still remains within the bounds of affordable sports cars on this list, starting at $46,890. Packing a more potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 315 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, the all-wheel-drive Golf R comes exclusively with a seven-speed DSG transmission and achieves a 0-60 mph sprint in a brisk 3.9 seconds. The Golf R delivers premium performance and all-weather capability in a sophisticated and still relatively affordable sports car package.
Honda Civic Type R
Price: $47,045
The Type R is the ultimate expression of Civic performance, positioned as a more premium and potent sibling to the Si, while still considered an affordable sports car relative to higher-priced performance models. Generating 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Type R is exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Enhanced stopping power comes courtesy of four-piston Brembo front brakes, and its aggressive styling, including a prominent grille opening, hood vent, and sizable rear spoiler, further sets it apart. Starting at $47,045 for 2025, the Civic Type R offers track-focused performance and a thrilling driving experience in a relatively affordable sports car package.
Ford Mustang GT
Price: $48,155
Moving up to the Mustang GT unlocks the iconic 5.0-liter V-8 engine, delivering 486 horsepower and rear-wheel drive, remaining a surprisingly affordable sports car considering its V8 power. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a quick-shifting 10-speed automatic available as an option. While the track-focused Dark Horse variant offers even more power, the base Mustang GT, starting at a reasonable $48,155, provides classic American muscle car performance and V8 sound at a relatively accessible price point, solidifying its place as an affordable sports car icon.
Cadillac CT4-V
Price: $48,690
While the high-performance CT4-V Blackwing commands attention (and a higher price tag), the standard CT4-V still offers a compelling performance sedan experience within the affordable sports car spectrum, starting at $48,690. Powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine producing 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, the CT4-V achieves a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds. While a 10-speed automatic is the only transmission option, the CT4-V provides a blend of Cadillac luxury and sporty performance at a more accessible price compared to its Blackwing sibling.
Audi S3
Price: $49,995
For those seeking a more refined and luxurious sporty experience, the Audi S3 offers a sophisticated take on the affordable sports car concept, just under the $50,000 mark at $49,995. The 2025 S3 boasts an upgraded turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, now producing 328 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Standard all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission ensure confident performance in all conditions. The Audi S3 provides a near-luxury experience with sporty driving dynamics, representing a more upscale option within the realm of affordable sports cars.
Best Cheap Sports Cars 2025
- 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
In conclusion, the 2025 automotive market still offers a wide array of exciting and affordable sports car options for enthusiasts on a budget. From nimble roadsters like the Mazda MX-5 Miata to versatile hot hatchbacks like the Volkswagen GTI and powerful muscle cars like the Ford Mustang EcoBoost, there’s a sporty vehicle to suit various tastes and needs without exceeding the $50,000 mark. This list demonstrates that driving excitement and affordability can indeed go hand-in-hand, ensuring that the thrill of owning a sports car remains within reach for many drivers.
