Cheap sports cars in 2025 demonstrate that driving fun does not have to be expensive. Among the models this year is a collection of quick, sexy, and super-performing automobiles with a sticker price that won’t exceed $40,000. Depending on whether your taste runs to sophisticated rear-wheel-drive coupes, quick turbocharged saloons, there’s something in it for every enthusiast wanting thrills within their price range. Let’s take a look at the best cheap sports cars of 2025 that offer performance without the high price tag.
PoMazda MX-5 Miata ($30,515)
When the mind strays to visions of a sports car within reach of most to have fun driving, the first thing that comes to mind is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Light, nimble on its feet, and just so in balance, the Miata remains even the standard by which others are measured in terms of driving enjoyment.
Additionally, customers have the option of a soft-top convertible or a fashion-forward Retractable Fastback (RF). While cargo space is minimal and tall drivers will be cramped, the Miata’s driving personality makes it a gem in the affordable sports car market.
| Starting Price | $30,515 |
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 181 hp, 151 lb-ft torque |
| Key Features | Lightweight, nimble handling, 50:50 weight distribution, RWD |
Toyota GR86Â ($31,085)
If your fun is oversteering around corners, the Toyota GR86 will be at the top of your list. At $31,085, it’s another great bargain sports car that focuses on lightweight dynamics and driver input.
The GR86’s 2.4-liter flat-four engine makes 228 horsepower, delivering sprightly performance. Moreover, the six-speed manual transmission that comes with it makes driving even more fun. Relative to its twin, the Subaru BRZ, the GR86 is tuned to be marginally more playful in character, with a bias toward drivers who enjoy testing the boundaries on windy roads.
| Starting Price | $31,085 |
| Engine | 2.4L flat-four, 228 hp |
| Key Features | Lightweight feel, playful dynamics, 6-speed manual, RWD |
Honda Civic Si ($31,045)
For those who desire a combination of everyday practicality and weekend adventure, the 2025 Honda Civic Si is the perfect car. Priced at $31,045 to start, it provides the practicality of a sedan and the attitude of an affordable sports car.
Its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine has 200 horses, and a smooth six-speed manual transmission brings you close to the car. And to put the icing on the cake, excellent fuel economy and a comfortable interior make the Civic Si an excellent buy. Yes, it’s not the fastest car on this list, but without a doubt one of the most well-balanced.
Read More:Â honda civic lx Features, Specs, Engine, Price, and Performance
| Starting Price | $31,045 |
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 200 hp |
| Key Features | Sedan practicality, good fuel economy, smooth 6-speed manual |
Volkswagen Golf GTI ($33,585)
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is still a legend among fans, and for good reason.At a starting price of $33,585, it blends usability with performance better than most. Under the bonnet, there’s a 262-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter, and it produces serious acceleration.
As annoying as it is that VW dropped the manual transmission for 2025, the dual-clutch automatic is quick and responsive. Also, with a roomy interior and accommodating cargo capacity, the GTI shows that an affordable sports car can also be a great daily commuter.
| Starting Price | $33,585 |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 262 hp |
| Key Features | Practical hatchback, quick dual-clutch automatic, roomy interior |
Subaru BRZ ($32,265)
Another top-notch choice for purists who long for unadulterated driving experience is the Subaru BRZ. It starts at $32,265 and is very similar to the Toyota GR86 but with a hint of difference.
The 2.4-liter flat-four produces 228 horsepower, which is accompanied by a well-balanced chassis that is quite responsive. As a bonus, Subaru’s EyeSight safety tech is available on even manual trim levels. Although interior room is still cramped, the fold-down rear seats add unexpected practicality to what otherwise would be a bargain-bin sports car for track days or wild weekend outings.
| Starting Price | $32,265 |
| Engine | 2.4L flat-four, 228 hp |
| Key Features | Pure driving experience, responsive chassis, EyeSight safety features |
Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback ($33,515)
For those looking for muscle car styling, the Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback is an appealing option. At from $33,515, it’s also one of the cheapest powerful sports cars available. Purportedly powered by a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine making 315 horsepower. While only offered with a 10-speed automatic, the Mustang is still an exhilarating and able option for under $40,000.
| Starting Price | $33,515 |
| Engine | 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 315 hp |
| Key Features | Muscle car styling, High Performance package optional, powerful turbo |
PSubaru WRX ($36,920)
If you desire year-round capability, the Subaru WRX is a legendary moniker. Though its fuel economy and interior could use some improvement, the WRX is still an automatic choice among shoppers looking for a tough and capable cheap sports cars.
| Starting Price | $36,920 |
| Engine | 2.4L turbocharged flat-four, 271 hp |
| Key Features | AWD standard, manual transmission, rally-inspired performance |
Volkswagen Jetta GLI ($33,940)
Finally, for someone who prefers understated looks but actual performance, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI is an excellent cheap sports car to look into. The GLI sports a shared six-speed manual gearbox, keeping the driving experience just as uncompromised and engaging as it would be. The vehicle also possesses a spacious cabin and smooth ride that will be its advantage for long road vacations. Its under-the-radar nature, however, may be too bland a taste for some who prefer that their sportier vehicle be seen in the spotlights.
| Starting Price | $33,940 |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (shared with Golf GTI) |
| Key Features | 6-speed manual standard, roomy cabin, smooth ride |
Why Affordable Sports Cars Still Matter
In the SUV- and EV-dominated car market of today, the low-cost, analog sports car is an increasingly rare creature. But these low-cost sports cars keep alive the essence of driving. They’re about feedback, enjoyment, and unadorned connection between driver and car—things that high-tech, pricey machines tend to neglect.
In addition, most cheap sports cars now feature enthusiasts’ favorites: manual transmissions, turbocharged power, rear-drive, and light weight. They aren’t about 0–60 times; they’re about making you feel alive in every turn, on every highway stripe, and every morning commute.
Read More:Â toyota sport cars Features, Specs, Engine, Price, and Performance
FAQ’s
Q1) What is the most cheap sports car that you can purchase in 2025?
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the most cheap sports car in 2025, at a starting price of about $30,515.
Q2) What 2025 sports car provides the highest horsepower for under $40,000?
The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback provides the most power out of the group, at 315 horsepower.
Q3) Do you offer an cheap sports cars with all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Subaru WRX comes with standard all-wheel drive and rally-tuned handling for $36,920.
Q4) Which budget sports car still has a manual transmission in 2025?
Such cars as the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Toyota GR86, Honda Civic Si, Subaru BRZ, and Volkswagen Jetta GLI all include manual transmissions.
Q5) Why do cheap sports cars remain relevant today?
They maintain the unadulterated, exciting driving experience that’s too often sacrificed in today’s tech-laden, high-priced cars.
