The average price of a new car is hovering around $50,000, which can make the dream of owning a sporty and fun-to-drive vehicle seem out of reach. However, the good news for car enthusiasts is that there are still a fantastic range of Low Cost Sports Cars available in 2025 that deliver exhilarating performance without breaking the bank. You can find exciting options for well under that hefty average, with some even coming in at the attractive price point of around $30,000.
For the upcoming year, we’ve assembled a list of compelling sports cars, sporty sedans, and hot hatchbacks that all come in under the $50,000 mark. Many of these hail from trusted and beloved brands like Honda, Mazda, and Toyota, featuring iconic models such as the legendary Miata and exciting newcomers like the GR Corolla. Even those seeking a touch of luxury will find options that are surprisingly affordable in this dynamic segment. Let’s dive into the best low cost sports cars for 2025 that prove thrilling driving experiences don’t necessitate a premium price tag.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Price: $30,515
When the conversation turns to affordable fun, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is consistently the benchmark. Starting at a tempting $30,515, this iconic roadster delivers a pure and engaging driving experience that’s hard to match at any price. The Miata is powered by a responsive 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Drivers can enjoy the standard, crisp six-speed manual gearbox for maximum engagement, or opt for an automatic transmission if preferred. Whether you choose the classic soft top or the retractable hardtop RF model, the Miata remains an unparalleled choice for those seeking a low cost sports car that prioritizes driving joy and open-air thrills. Its lightweight design and nimble handling make every drive an event, proving that you don’t need immense power to have immense fun.
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 an accessible $31,135. For a slight step up in price, the GR86 offers a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine that provides a noticeable bump in power compared to the Mazda, delivering 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Like the Miata, the GR86 offers the choice of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, catering to different driver preferences. Rear-wheel drive is standard, ensuring a classic sports car feel. While it comes exclusively as a fixed-roof coupe, this is a minor compromise for a sports car that delivers stellar handling, a playful chassis, and a rewarding driving experience. The Toyota GR86 is a fantastic option for those wanting a low cost sports car with a bit more power and a focus on track-day capability.
Honda Civic Si
Price: $31,400
The Honda Civic Si continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a sporty and practical sedan that doesn’t compromise on affordability. Starting at just over $31,000 for the 2025 model year, the Civic Si blends fun with everyday usability. It’s powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. While it may be slightly less powerful than some other sporty sedans in its class, the Civic 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 skimp on comfort features, offering amenities like a Bose sound system. The Civic Si represents a smart choice for those needing a low cost sports car in a sedan format, perfect for daily driving with a dose of weekend fun.
Volkswagen GTI
Price: $33,190
The iconic Volkswagen GTI remains a hot hatchback legend, and it’s still readily available as a low cost sports car option. Starting at $33,190, the GTI delivers a compelling blend of performance and practicality in a versatile hatchback package. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing a robust 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While Volkswagen has discontinued the manual transmission for the GTI, it comes standard with a responsive seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, sending power exclusively to the front wheels. The GTI’s well-tuned chassis, punchy engine, and everyday usability make it a perennial favorite for those seeking a fun and functional low cost sports car.
Subaru BRZ
Price: $33,380
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are essentially fraternal twins, sharing the same platform and powertrain, making the BRZ another excellent low cost sports car. Like the GR86, the BRZ is powered by a 2.4-liter Boxer engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, and it offers the same choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The base BRZ starts at $33,380 for 2025 and distinguishes itself with standard Subaru StarLink infotainment and EyeSight driver-assistance technology, even on manual transmission models. For those seeking enhanced performance, the Subaru BRZ tS trim offers a more track-focused STI suspension, Brembo brakes, and a premium leather-and-suede interior, though it comes at a higher price of $37,530. The Subaru BRZ provides a slightly different flavor from its Toyota sibling, but remains a fantastic rear-wheel-drive coupe for enthusiasts on a budget.
Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback
Price: $33,515
The Ford Mustang is an American muscle car icon, and the EcoBoost Fastback model keeps the dream of owning a Mustang alive as a low cost sports car option. Starting at $33,515, the base Mustang EcoBoost Fastback delivers surprising performance from its turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, which pumps out 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, offering a blend of muscle car heritage and modern turbocharged efficiency. While a manual transmission isn’t available for the EcoBoost, the automatic is responsive and helps deliver strong performance for the price. The Mustang EcoBoost Fastback provides a unique entry point into the Mustang legacy, offering a powerful and stylish low cost sports car.
Subaru WRX
Price: $33,855
The Subaru WRX offers rally-inspired performance and all-weather capability at a price point that qualifies it as a low cost sports car. Starting at $33,855, the base WRX delivers significantly more power than the Honda Civic Si for a slightly higher price. It features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive system is standard, providing exceptional grip and control in various conditions. For those seeking even sharper handling, the WRX tS trim upgrades to Brembo brakes and revised suspension and steering tuning, though it pushes the price up to $46,875. The standard WRX, however, remains a potent and versatile low cost sports car that’s equally at home on twisty roads or in snowy conditions.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Price: $33,940
The Jetta GLI is Volkswagen’s sedan alternative to the GTI hot hatch, offering similar performance and features in a more traditional sedan body style, and still qualifies as a low cost sports car. Starting at $33,940, the Jetta GLI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Drivers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, both sending power to the front wheels. The GLI received a subtle refresh for 2025, including exterior styling updates and interior tweaks. It remains one of the most affordable sporty sedans available, offering a refined driving experience and practical sedan packaging, making it a compelling low cost sports car for those needing four doors.
Acura Integra
Price: $34,195
The new Acura Integra is positioned as a more premium and sophisticated alternative to the Honda Civic Si, though still within the realm of low cost sports cars. Starting at $34,195 for 2025, the base Integra shares the same 200-horsepower engine as the Civic Si but is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard. While the Honda is manual-only, a manual transmission is available for the Integra, but only on the A-Spec and Type S models, which come at higher price points ($39,195 and $54,095 respectively). The base Acura Integra offers a more refined and upscale experience compared to the Civic Si, while still providing a fun and engaging drive, making it a good option for those seeking a low cost sports car with a touch of luxury.
Mini Cooper S
Price: $34,375
The new Mini Cooper S might not be the most powerful hot hatchback, but it retains the iconic Mini driving dynamics and charm at a reasonable price, placing it within the low cost sports car category. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, the Mini Cooper S produces 201 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Starting at $34,375 for 2025, the Mini Cooper S prioritizes nimble handling and a fun-to-drive character over outright power. Its compact size and go-kart-like handling make it a blast to drive in urban environments and on twisty roads. The Mini Cooper S is a stylish and unique low cost sports car that emphasizes driving enjoyment and personality.
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 and all-wheel drive in a refined package, making it a worthy contender in the low cost sports car segment. With a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, the Mazda3 Turbo is certainly no slouch. It comes exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Starting at $34,435 for 2025, the Mazda3 Turbo provides a sophisticated and powerful driving experience with the added confidence of all-wheel drive, making it a great choice for those wanting a low cost sports car with versatility and premium features.
Hyundai Elantra N
Price: $35,445
The Hyundai Elantra N is a standout four-door sports sedan that delivers serious performance at an accessible price, firmly placing it in the low cost sports car category. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, the Elantra N offers a thrilling driving experience. It’s available with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. Unlike the Subaru WRX, the Elantra N is front-wheel drive, but its expertly tuned chassis and electronic limited-slip differential help manage power effectively. Starting at $35,445 for the 2025 model, the Hyundai Elantra N is a high-performance bargain, offering track-ready capabilities and aggressive styling in a low cost sports car package.
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 a unique three-cylinder engine to the low cost sports car market. This five-door hatchback features all-wheel drive and a turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing an impressive 300 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While a six-speed manual was initially the only transmission, Toyota has added an eight-speed automatic option for this year, expanding its appeal. Starting at $39,995, the GR Corolla offers a potent combination of power, all-wheel-drive grip, and hatchback versatility, making it a standout low cost sports car for enthusiasts seeking something truly special.
Nissan Z
Price: $44,110
The Nissan Z brings retro-futuristic styling and a powerful twin-turbo V6 to the low cost sports car segment, although it sits on the higher end of the “low cost” spectrum in this list. Starting at $44,110, the Nissan Z delivers a significant step up in performance with its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, sending power to the rear wheels. It comes standard with 18-inch wheels and LED headlights, and offers a choice of a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission. The Nissan Z offers a blend of classic sports car aesthetics with modern performance, making it an attractive option for those willing to stretch their budget slightly for a more powerful and stylish low cost sports car.
Volkswagen Golf R
Price: $46,890
The Golf R is the higher-performance sibling to the GTI, offering even more power and all-wheel drive, while still qualifying as a low cost sports car under the $50,000 threshold. Starting at $46,890, the Golf R 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, as is a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. The Golf R delivers blistering acceleration, hitting 60 mph in around 3.9 seconds, offering near-sports car levels of performance in a practical hatchback body. It’s a top-tier hot hatch and a powerful low cost sports car option.
Honda Civic Type R
Price: $47,045
The Type R represents the ultimate expression of the Honda Civic’s performance potential and is a formidable front-wheel-drive low cost sports car. While significantly more expensive than the Civic Si, the Type R justifies its price with serious performance credentials. It boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. Stopping power is enhanced with four-piston Brembo front brakes. The Civic Type R also features aggressive styling cues, including a prominent grille, hood vent, and large rear spoiler. Starting at $47,045, the Civic Type R delivers track-ready performance and a thrilling driving experience, making it a top choice for front-wheel-drive enthusiasts seeking a low cost sports car.
Ford Mustang GT
Price: $48,155
Stepping up to the Mustang GT unlocks the iconic 5.0-liter V8 engine, bringing traditional American muscle car power to the low cost sports car category. Starting at $48,155, the Mustang GT delivers a substantial power increase over the EcoBoost model, with its V8 producing 486 horsepower and sending power to the rear wheels. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a 10-speed automatic available as an option. While even more powerful Mustang variants exist, like the track-focused Dark Horse, the base GT offers a fantastic blend of performance and value, providing the classic V8 Mustang experience as a relatively low cost sports car.
Cadillac CT4-V
Price: $48,690
While the high-performance CT4-V Blackwing commands attention (and a higher price), the standard CT4-V still offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance as a low cost sports car option. Starting at $48,690, the CT4-V 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. It comes exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The CT4-V provides a more upscale and refined driving experience compared to some of the other cars on this list, offering a touch of Cadillac luxury in a sporty and relatively low cost sports car package.
Audi S3
Price: $49,995
For those seeking a more luxurious and refined hot hatchback experience with four doors, the Audi S3 is an excellent choice, and it just sneaks in under the $50,000 mark, qualifying as a low cost sports car in this context. Starting at $49,995 for 2025, the Audi S3 features an upgraded turbocharged 2.0-liter engine now producing 328 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard, as is a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Audi S3 offers a sophisticated and premium driving experience with strong performance and all-weather capability, making it a desirable low cost sports car for those prioritizing refinement and luxury features.
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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
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