Top affordable sports cars under $50,000 in 2025

Jetta GLI offers a luxurious cabin and sporty handling, it’s an upscale option for those wanting refined driving experience
An undated image of Mazda MX-5 Miata. — Mazda
An undated image of Mazda MX-5 Miata. — Mazda 

In 2025, performance doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag as the market is packed with exciting sports cars that combine speed, sharp handling, and sleek designs, all for under $50,000. 

Gadinsider has got a look at some of the best affordable sports cars, offering the perfect blend of performance and value.

Mazda MX-5 Miata 

The Miata is known for its lightweight chassis and nimble handling, making it perfect for winding roads. Its convertible design ensures an exhilarating open-top experience. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is priced at $30,515.

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder
  • Power: 181 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Toyota GR86 

With precise steering and a low centre of gravity, the GR86 delivers exceptional control and balance. It’s a driver’s car at an affordable price. the Toyota GR86 is priced at $31,134. 

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.4-litre flat-4
  • Power: 228 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Honda Civic Si 

The Civic Si blends practicality and performance with a sporty design and engaging manual transmission, making it a versatile choice. The Honda Civic Si is priced at $31,400.

Specs:

  • Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Power: 200 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

Volkswagen GTI 

This iconic hot hatch impresses with its punchy engine, sharp handling, and stylish design. It’s a classic choice for hatchback fans. the Volkswagen GTI is priced at $33,190.

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Power: 241 horsepower
  • Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

Subaru BRZ 

Sharing a platform with the GR86, the BRZ offers similar driving dynamics. Its sharp handling and balanced chassis make it a fun choice for enthusiasts. The Subaru BRZ is priced at $33,380.

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.4-litre flat-4
  • Power: 228 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback 

The Mustang EcoBoost combines muscle car aesthetics with modern engineering. Its turbocharged engine offers enhanced performance. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback is priced at $33,515.

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Power: 315 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Subaru WRX 

With its rally heritage, the WRX is a great all-weather performer. Its turbocharged engine and AWD make it a rugged yet sporty choice. The Subaru WRX is priced at $33,855.

Specs:

Engine: 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder

Power: 271 horsepower

Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT

Drivetrain: All-wheel drive

Volkswagen Jetta GLI 

The Jetta GLI offers a luxurious cabin and sporty handling. It’s an upscale option for those wanting a refined driving experience. The Volkswagen Jetta GLI is priced at $33,940.

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Power: 228 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

Acura Integra 

This modern take on a classic offers a mix of sporty performance and premium features, making it a standout choice. The Acura Integra is priced at $34,195.

Specs:

  • Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Power: 200 horsepower
  • Transmission: CVT or 6-speed manual (higher trims)
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

Toyota GR Corolla 

Inspired by rally racing, the GR Corolla combines power and AWD for thrilling performance, making it a rare gem in the hatchback space. The Toyota GR Corolla is priced at $39,995.

Specs:

  • Engine: 1.6-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder
  • Power: 300 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual
  • Drivetrain: All-wheel drive

Nissan Z 

Blending retro-inspired design with modern performance, the Nissan Z offers high power and style for its consumers. The Nissan Z is priced at $44,110.

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6
  • Power: 400 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Ford Mustang GT 

The Mustang GT is a classic muscle car with a roaring V8 engine, offering unparalleled power and a visceral driving experience. The Ford Mustang GT is priced at $48,155.

Specs:

  • Engine: 5.0-litre V8
  • Power: 480 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Honda Civic Type R 

Known for its track-ready performance, sharp handling, and aggressive styling, the Civic Type R is a driver’s dream. The Honda Civic Type R is priced at $47,045.

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Power: 315 horsepower
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive