The sports car market isn’t just alive in 2025—it’s thriving. There are plenty of cars out there that can deliver the kind of performance, balance, and driving satisfaction you expect, all without blowing past the $50,000 mark. Whether you’re looking for rear-wheel drive classics, turbocharged rockets, or all-wheel drive grip, there’s a lot to choose from.

Here are 10 new sports cars that prove you don’t need a trust fund to get something worth parking in the garage—and driving the wheels off every weekend.

1. 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Miata remains the blueprint for affordable driving fun. Powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine making 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, the 2025 model stays true to its lightweight formula. A six-speed manual comes standard, keeping the connection between car and driver front and center.

Double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear setup deliver sharp, confidence-inspiring handling. Inside, the Miata gets a slightly updated infotainment system while keeping its simple, no-frills layout. Pricing starts around $30,000, making it hard to argue against as a pure driver’s car.

2. 2025 Toyota GR86

The GR86 sticks to what it does best: offering naturally aspirated, rear-wheel-drive fun at an approachable price. The 2.4L flat-four engine delivers 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, helping the car sprint from 0–60 in about 5.8 seconds.

A low center of gravity, lightweight body, and tuned suspension keep it lively and predictable when you start pushing harder. You can opt for a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, depending on your driving preference. Prices start just north of $30,000.

3. 2025 Subaru BRZ

Mechanically twin to the GR86 but tuned a little differently, the Subaru BRZ offers the same 2.4L flat-four but with slightly softer ride dynamics. It’s still razor-sharp in the corners but offers a more compliant everyday drive.

The 2025 BRZ features a clean digital instrument cluster, a low seating position, and simple, driver-focused controls. Subaru also throws in EyeSight driver assistance on automatic models. At a starting price in the low $30,000s, it’s one of the few modern cars that genuinely feels built for the enthusiast first.

4. 2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost

The 2025 Mustang EcoBoost proves you don’t need a V8 to have serious fun. Powered by a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder making 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, it can sprint to 60 mph in under 5.5 seconds with the right setup.

It rides on an independent rear suspension and offers an optional Performance Package that adds beefier brakes, a limited-slip differential, and summer tires. Inside, the new digital cockpit with a 12.4-inch cluster keeps the Mustang feeling modern without losing its muscle car character. Prices start around $32,000.

5. 2025 Nissan Z Sport

The 2025 Nissan Z carries over with a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 making 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. In base Sport trim, you can still sneak in under the $50,000 mark, especially if you opt for the manual transmission.

Rear-wheel drive and a mechanical limited-slip differential come standard, offering real performance without paying premium trim prices. The interior feels more focused than past Z-cars, with digital gauges and supportive seats that are ready for weekend blasts or daily commuting.

6. 2025 Toyota GR Corolla

The GR Corolla might be a hatchback, but it brings genuine sports car energy. A 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder cranks out 300 hp, sent through a six-speed manual and a rally-bred all-wheel-drive system with adjustable torque splits.

Handling is razor sharp thanks to a widened track, stiffer chassis, and performance-tuned suspension. Inside, the GR Corolla keeps it functional with heavily bolstered seats and a simple digital dash. Pricing for the Core model starts just below $40,000, making it one of the best performance bargains on the market.

7. 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The GTI has always walked the line between hot hatch and practical daily driver, and the 2025 version sharpens that formula. It’s powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder making 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque.

You still get a six-speed manual if you want it, or a lightning-fast DSG dual-clutch automatic. The independent suspension setup gives it a playful but predictable feel through corners. Inside, you’ll find big digital screens and seating for five, making it a true everyday sports car for about $34,000 to start.

8. 2025 Hyundai Elantra N

The Elantra N punches way above its weight class. It comes with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. Both six-speed manual and eight-speed dual-clutch options are available.

Hyundai tuned the chassis for serious track use, adding electronically adjustable dampers, a limited-slip differential, and performance brakes. The cabin is simple but focused, with heavily bolstered seats and a clear view of the action. Starting around $34,000, the Elantra N is pure performance without the premium tax.

9. 2025 Dodge Hornet R/T

The Hornet R/T sneaks into this list because it’s small, fast, and seriously capable. It’s a plug-in hybrid that combines a turbocharged 1.3L engine with an electric motor, cranking out a combined 288 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque.

It features standard all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and Brembo brakes. In Sport Mode, it feels genuinely eager and can run a 0–60 time around 5.6 seconds. Starting around $41,000, it’s a different kind of sports car—practical, quick, and ready for spirited driving.

*Created with AI assistance and editor review.