Finding a thrilling sports car that doesn’t drain your savings might seem like a challenge, especially with the average new car price hovering around $50,000. However, the good news is that the market still offers a fantastic selection of fun-to-drive vehicles well under this mark, with some even starting around the $30,000 range. For the 2025 model year, we’ve compiled a list of sports cars, sporty sedans, and hot hatchbacks that deliver excitement without the hefty price tag. You’ll recognize many trusted brands like Honda, Mazda, and Toyota in this lineup, featuring iconic models like the legendary Miata and exciting newcomers such as the GR Corolla. Even a few luxury nameplates manage to offer affordable thrills in this competitive segment.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Price: $30,515
When the conversation turns to affordable, exhilarating driving experiences, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is consistently a top recommendation. Starting at a reasonable $30,515, the Miata packs a punch with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Drivers can choose between a crisp six-speed manual gearbox for maximum engagement or opt for an automatic transmission. Whether you prefer the classic soft top or the sleek retractable fastback (RF) model, the Miata guarantees pure, unadulterated driving pleasure at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s a testament to Mazda’s engineering prowess in delivering a true sports car feel without the premium sports car price.
Toyota GR86
Price: $31,135
Hot on the Miata’s heels in terms of affordability is the rear-wheel-drive Toyota GR86, starting at just $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, it offers the choice of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, maintaining that crucial rear-wheel-drive setup for classic sports car handling. The GR86 comes exclusively as a hardtop, a minor trade-off for an otherwise exceptional and budget-friendly sports car. For enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance and affordability, the GR86 is a compelling option within the Cheap Best Sports Cars category.
Alt text: Toyota GR86 red sports car speeding on racetrack, a cheap best sports car choice.
Honda Civic Si
Price: $31,400
The Honda Civic Si continues to be a favorite sporty sedan, perfectly blending fun, affordability, and everyday practicality. For 2025, the Civic Si starts at just over $31,000 and features 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 in its class, the 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 skimp on comfort features, including a premium Bose sound system. The Civic Si proves that cheap best sports cars can also be incredibly versatile and well-equipped for daily driving.
Alt text: Red Honda Civic Si sedan, a cheap best sports car with sporty design and city background.
Volkswagen GTI
Price: $33,190
The legendary Volkswagen GTI remains a benchmark for hot hatchbacks and continues to deliver impressive performance at an accessible price. Starting at $33,190, the GTI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that cranks out 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 efficient gear changes. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels, a hallmark of the GTI’s engaging front-wheel-drive dynamics. The GTI’s blend of performance, hatchback versatility, and Volkswagen’s refined driving feel solidify its place as a cheap best sports car option.
Alt text: Blue Volkswagen GTI hatchback driving on a curved road, showcasing its sporty and cheap best sports car nature.
Subaru BRZ
Price: $33,380
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are close siblings, sharing the same platform and potent 2.4-liter Boxer engine, which produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The BRZ distinguishes itself with standard Subaru StarLink infotainment and EyeSight driver-assistance technology, even on manual transmission models. For those seeking enhanced track performance, the Subaru BRZ tS offers upgrades like STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and a luxurious leather-and-suede interior. While the tS version is pricier, the base BRZ, starting at $33,380 for 2025, provides an excellent entry point into the world of cheap best sports cars, offering a unique driving experience thanks to its Boxer engine and rear-wheel drive.
Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback
Price: $33,515
The Ford Mustang is an iconic muscle car, and the EcoBoost Fastback model proves that Mustang thrills can be accessible. Starting at $33,515, the base Mustang EcoBoost Fastback packs a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that generates an impressive 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque – significantly more than the Mazda and Toyota sports cars mentioned earlier. It comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. While a manual isn’t available for the EcoBoost, the automatic offers quick shifts and contributes to the Mustang’s strong performance. The Mustang EcoBoost Fastback offers a powerful entry into the realm of cheap best sports cars, blending iconic styling with modern turbocharged performance.
Alt text: Red Ford Mustang EcoBoost fastback driving on highway, a powerful cheap best sports car option.
Subaru WRX
Price: $33,855
Slightly more expensive than the Civic Si, the Subaru WRX delivers significantly more power for the money. 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. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, with a CVT available as an option. For enhanced performance, the WRX tS trim offers upgraded Brembo brakes and refined suspension and steering, though it comes at a higher price point. The standard WRX, however, remains a strong contender in the cheap best sports cars category, offering all-wheel drive and turbocharged power for under $35,000.
Alt text: Blue Subaru WRX sedan cornering sharply, showcasing its all-wheel drive and cheap best sports car handling.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Price: $33,940
The Jetta GLI is Volkswagen’s sedan alternative to the GTI hot hatchback, offering similar performance in a more traditional sedan body style. It’s equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard. The GLI received a subtle refresh for 2025, including exterior and interior updates. Starting at $33,940, it remains one of the most affordable sporty sedans on the market, making it a strong contender for cheap best sports cars in the sedan segment.
Alt text: Gray Volkswagen Jetta GLI sedan parked in city, a cheap best sports car sedan with urban style.
Acura Integra
Price: $34,195
The new Integra offers a more premium take on the sporty compact car formula, essentially a more luxurious and refined Civic. Starting at $34,195 for 2025, it shares the same 200-horsepower engine as the Civic Si. However, the base Integra comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Civic Si is manual-only. A manual transmission Integra is available, but only on the A-Spec and Type S models, which come at higher price points. The Integra provides a step up in luxury and refinement compared to the Civic Si, while still remaining relatively affordable within the cheap best sports cars category, especially for those prioritizing a more upscale experience.
Mini Cooper S
Price: $34,375
The new Mini Cooper S delivers the iconic Mini driving experience with a bit more power. 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 hatchback, the Cooper S retains the nimble handling and charming character that define the Mini brand. Starting at a reasonable $34,375 for 2025, the Mini Cooper S offers a unique blend of style, fun-to-drive dynamics, and relative affordability, making it a distinctive choice among cheap best sports cars.
Alt text: Yellow Mini Cooper S hatchback driving on city street, a stylish and cheap best sports car option.
Mazda3 Turbo
Price: $34,435
Similar to the Mini, the Mazda3 Turbo isn’t explicitly marketed as a “hot hatchback,” but it offers impressive performance nonetheless. With a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and a substantial 320 pound-feet of torque, the Mazda3 Turbo is no slouch. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only option for the Turbo trim, and all-wheel drive comes standard. Starting at $34,435 for 2025, the Mazda3 Turbo provides a compelling combination of turbocharged power, all-weather capability, and Mazda’s signature driving refinement, positioning it as a versatile and cheap best sports car alternative.
Alt text: Gray Mazda3 Turbo hatchback driving on coastal highway, showcasing its sporty nature as a cheap best sports car.
Hyundai Elantra N
Price: $35,445
The Hyundai Elantra N is a spirited four-door sports sedan that packs a serious punch. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivers 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, and it’s available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Unlike the Subaru WRX, the Elantra N is front-wheel drive only. Hyundai updated the Elantra N for 2024, and the 2025 model remains largely unchanged, starting at $35,445. The Elantra N offers a high level of performance and aggressive styling at a competitive price, making it a noteworthy contender in the cheap best sports cars segment.
Alt text: Blue Hyundai Elantra N sedan performing slalom on track, demonstrating its performance as a cheap best sports car.
Toyota GR Corolla
Price: $39,995
The Toyota GR Corolla is one of the most exciting and highly anticipated cars on this list. This five-door hatchback boasts all-wheel drive and a potent three-cylinder, turbocharged engine that produces an impressive 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. Starting at $39,995, the GR Corolla delivers rally-inspired performance and hatchback practicality at a price point that undercuts many rivals, firmly establishing it as a cheap best sports car with serious performance credentials.
Alt text: White Toyota GR Corolla hatchback drifting on gravel, showcasing its rally-inspired and cheap best sports car capabilities.
Nissan Z
Price: $44,110
The Nissan Z stands out with its striking retro-futuristic styling and modern interior. However, this head-turning design comes at a slightly higher price, with the Z starting at $44,110. Under the hood, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 sends 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. Eighteen-inch wheels and LED headlights are standard, and buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the Nissan Z pushes the upper limit of our “cheap” sports car range, it offers a significant step up in power and a more premium feel compared to the more affordable options, making it a compelling choice for those willing to stretch their budget for a more potent and stylish cheap best sports car.
Alt text: Yellow Nissan Z coupe parked in city, a stylish and powerful cheap best sports car option.
Volkswagen Golf R
Price: $46,890
The Golf R is the GTI’s more powerful and sophisticated sibling, starting at $46,890. It features a more potent version of the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, producing 315 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and power is delivered through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. The Golf R offers blistering acceleration, reaching 60 mph in around 3.9 seconds. While nearing the $50,000 mark, the Golf R delivers near-premium performance and all-weather capability, positioning it as a high-performance yet still relatively cheap best sports car option.
Alt text: Blue Volkswagen Golf R hatchback cornering on track, a high-performance cheap best sports car with all-wheel drive.
Honda Civic Type R
Price: $47,045
The Type R represents the ultimate expression of the Civic’s performance potential, though it comes at a significantly higher price than the Si. The Civic Type R boasts 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual is the only transmission choice, and stopping power is enhanced by four-piston Brembo front brakes. The Type R also features more aggressive styling cues, including a prominent grille, hood vent, and a large rear spoiler. Starting at $47,045 for 2025, the Civic Type R delivers track-ready performance and exclusivity, making it a top-tier contender, though at the higher end of the cheap best sports cars spectrum.
Alt text: White Honda Civic Type R hatchback braking hard on racetrack, a track-focused cheap best sports car.
Ford Mustang GT
Price: $48,155
Stepping up to the Mustang GT unlocks the iconic 5.0-liter V-8 engine, producing 486 horsepower and sending power to the rear wheels. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a 10-speed automatic is optional. While not the most powerful Mustang in the lineup (the Dark Horse offers 500 hp), the GT provides classic V-8 muscle car performance at a more accessible price. Starting at $48,155, the Mustang GT delivers traditional American muscle car thrills while remaining within the realm of cheap best sports cars, especially considering the V8 power on offer.
Alt text: Orange Ford Mustang GT coupe doing a burnout, showcasing its V8 power as a cheap best sports car muscle car.
Cadillac CT4-V
Price: $48,690
While the high-performance CT4-V Blackwing grabs headlines, the standard CT4-V offers a taste of Cadillac performance at a less stratospheric price. This version is powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine producing 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds. The sole transmission option is a 10-speed automatic (the manual is reserved for the Blackwing). The CT4-V provides a blend of luxury and performance at a sub-$50,000 price point, making it a somewhat more upscale yet still cheap best sports car option.
Alt text: Black Cadillac CT4-V sedan driving on mountain road, a luxury cheap best sports car option.
Audi S3
Price: $49,995
For those seeking a more refined and luxurious hot hatchback experience with four doors, the Audi S3 is an excellent choice. For 2025, the S3’s turbocharged 2.0-liter engine has been upgraded to produce 328 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a seven-speed automatic transmission. Starting just under the $50,000 mark for 2025, the Audi S3 offers a sophisticated blend of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability, representing the upper end of the cheap best sports cars category, appealing to buyers seeking premium features without exceeding the budget.
Alt text: Silver Audi S3 sedan parked in front of modern architecture, a premium cheap best sports car choice.
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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
