Best New Affordable Sports Cars of 2025 Under $40k
Once the ultimate automotive class, sports cars defined what a real high-performance car should be in their heyday. Today, they see themselves playing second-fiddle just behind supercars or even taking the third-row seat if you count in hypercars.
Plus, there's also the question of what an actual sports car is in the modern automotive scenario. And how affordable they are in these inflationary times?
Although they may not be as numerous as before, some brand-new models are still within reach for the sports car enthusiast. These models deliver the same fun-to-drive hype as traditional two-seater coupes or convertibles, and that too under $40k. From Japanese lightweights to American muscles to European hot hatches, here's our round-up of the best new affordable sports cars of 2025, all under $40,000.
2025 BMW 230i Coupe ($39,600)
Priced at $39,600, the 2025 BMW 230i Coupe kicks off our list of the best new affordable sports cars of 2025 under $40,000. This compact rear-wheel drive coupe is a compelling option in its segment with its stylish blend of performance and luxury. Alongside its sleek design and driver-focused tech, the upgradable 20-inch alloy wheels and the M Sport package add an extra sporty and performance touch.
2025 BMW 230i Coupe Specifications
Engine Liters/type | 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder |
|---|---|
Displacement (cc) | 1998 |
Horsepower (bhp @ rpm) | 255 @ 5000-6500 |
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) | 295 @ 1550-4400 |
Compression Ratio (:1) | 10.2 |
Transmission Type | 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes |
Acceleration | 5.5 sec |
Top Speed | 130 MPH |
Fuel Consumption | 30/26/25 mpg (combined/city/highway) |
At the 230i's heart, a potent 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers an exhilarating 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in a sharp 5.5 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph. The standard eight-speed auto-transmission screams that the 230i isn't just about straight-line speed, offering smooth, rapid shifts. BMW claims this coupe yields a combined 30 mpg gas mileage, which is quite impressive for a sports car.
2025 Toyota GR Corolla Core ($38,860)
The first Japanese-made hatchback on this list is the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Core, with a price tag of $38,860. Although a base trim, the Core shines as a hot hatch with aggressive exterior styling, sporty bumpers, and unique panels and flares. Its powerplant carries a 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 300 horsepower295 lb.-ft of torque. This power delivery sends the compact car from 0-60 mph in a brisk 4.99 seconds with a top track speed of 142.9 mph.
2025 Toyota GR Corolla Core Specifications
Engine | 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 300 hp @ 6500 rpm |
Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm |
Transmission | 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (GR-FOUR system) |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds |
Top Speed | 142.9 mph |
Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined) | 21/28/24 mpg |
As for its sportiest highlighted feature, the rally-inspired GR-Four all-wheel-drive system combines with its front and rear limited-slip differentials for impressive traction and handling capabilities. With an estimated 24 mpg combined rating, the Core is a practical, sporty hatchback that doesn't compromise fuel efficiency.
2025 Subaru WRX Premium ($35,750+)
Another Japanese car in this list is the 2025 Subaru WRX Premium, priced at $35,750 MSRP. This rally-bred sports sedan continues its World Rally eXperimental, courtesy of its 271-hp 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine. It combines with Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, accelerating the car from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The standard six-speed manual or optional CVT transmission offers a relaxed ride with engaging driving dynamics.
2025 Subaru WRX Premium Specifications
Engine | 2.4L Turbocharged Boxer 4-Cylinder |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 271 hp @ 5600 rpm |
Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
Transmission | 6-speed manual (standard) or CVT (optional) |
Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds |
Aside from its sporty, rally-inspired exterior, the 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 245/40 R18 summer performance tires add extra racy energy. For an additional $1,350, the Premium bags in the Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT), steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters with eight preselected gear ratios, Harman Kardon® Speaker System, Power Moonroof, SI-Drive Engine Performance Management, and Auto Vehicle Hold.
2025 Subaru BRZ ($32,210+)
The next Subaru in our lineup is the 2025 BRZ, available in three trim levels, including Premium, Limited, and tS- all under $37,000. This hot sporty coupe dons an iconic sports car layout— two-door, front-engine, rear-wheel drive — with razor-sharp handling. Its race-inspired performance features include a 2.4-liter direct-injection Subaru Boxer engine producing 228 horsepower while delivering 184 lb.-ft of torque. It is available in a quick-shifting 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual transmission for pure driving thrills. Thanks to the STI-tuned suspension and Brembo braking system, the tS model is the ultimate trim level for maximized high performance.
2025 Subaru BRZ Specifications
Engine | 2.4-liter Subaru Boxer 4-cylinder engine |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 228 hp |
Torque | 184 lb-ft |
Transmission | 6-speed manual or automatic |
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
Maximum Fuel Economy | 30/21 mpg (highway/city) |
Based on the trim, it offers a maximum mileage of 30/21 mph (highway/city) rating and is available at a base price of $32,210, with the top-tier tS trim costing $36,360.
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI ($31,965+)
The 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of the defining hot hatchbacks releasing this year in a refreshed version, combining its decades-old desirable features: sharp handling, eager powertrain, and shocking practicality. This updated model brings newer tech features, including a bigger touchscreen and revised infotainment software. But, disappointingly, it is losing its manual transmission option with a slick seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox used instead.
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Specifications
Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 265 hp @ 5250-6500 rpm |
Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 1600-4590 rpm |
Transmission | 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic |
Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds |
Top Speed | 155 mph |
Fuel Economy | up to 39.8 mpg combined |
As before, the new GTI features a 2-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing around 241 horsepower. This engine launches the sports hatchback from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, making it the first sub-6-second GTI in the model's history. The GTI is also remarkably practical, with a combined mileage rating of up to 39.8 mpg.
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Trim Prices
Trim | Starting Price |
|---|---|
S | $31,965 |
380 S | $32,685 |
SE | $36,915 |
380 SE | $37,485 |
Autobahn | $40,505 |
380 Autobahn | $40,825 |
As for the trim prices, the 2025 VW Golf GTI starts at $31,965 with the entry-level S model, while the other mid-level trims cost: 380 S ($32,685), SE ($36,915), 380 SE ($37,485). Aside from this, the top-level Autobahn and 380 Autobahn trims cost just over $40,000.
2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost ($31,920+)
The 2025 Ford Mustang is the only American-made car to make it onto this list, and it’s easy to see why. With three entry-level trims—EcoBoost, Premium EcoBoost, and EcoBoost Convertible—it offers something for everyone. Under the hood, the Mustang packs a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that cranks out an impressive 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This power is smoothly managed by a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and efficient performance.
2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Specifications
Engine | 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 315 hp @ 5000 rpm |
Torque | 350 lb.-ft @ 3000 rpm |
Transmission | 10-speed SelectShift automatic |
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds |
Fuel Economy | 21 mpg city / 32 mpg highway |
Ford has stepped up its game for 2025, giving the Mustang a modern, tech-filled interior. The highlights? A 12.4-inch customizable digital cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen loaded with SYNC 4, making connectivity and controls a breeze. Despite being a sporty powerhouse, the EcoBoost fastback is surprisingly practical, with fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Trim Prices
Trim | Starting Price |
|---|---|
2025 Mustang EcoBoost Fastback | $31,920 |
2025 Mustang EcoBoost Premium Fastback | $37,545 |
2025 Mustang EcoBoost Convertible | $40,120 |
As for the prices, the EcoBoost Fastback starts at #31,920, while the Premium Fastback costs $37,545. If you’re after a bit more fun in the sun, the convertible option starts at $40,120, letting you enjoy open-air driving without compromising the Mustang’s signature performance and style.
2025 Toyota GR86 ($30,000+)
The 2025 Toyota GR86 is the second-most affordable option on our list. It starts at just over $30,000, making it an unbeatable choice for budget-conscious sports car enthusiasts. Toyota has perfected the GR86 to appeal to drivers who value a lightweight, engaging coupe that shines on the track yet remains practical for everyday driving. This sporty coupe turns heads with its bold front grille, sleek aerodynamic curves, sculpted bodywork, and striking 18-inch alloys.
2025 Toyota GR86 Specifications
Engine | 2.4-liter DOHC 16V 4-cylinder engine |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 288 hp @ 7000 rpm |
Torque | 184 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm |
Transmission | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds |
Fuel Economy | 20/27/31 mpg (city/highway/combined) |
Under the hood, the GR86 is powered by a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four engine that delivers 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Drivers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission for the ultimate hands-on experience or a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters for added convenience. This powertrain propels the GR86 from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, while its rear-wheel-drive setup and near-perfect weight distribution ensure precise handling.
2025 Toyota GR86 Trims Prices
Trim | Starting Price |
|---|---|
2025 GR86 | $30,000 |
2025 GR86 Premium | $32,600 |
2025 GR86 Hakone Edition | $35,270 |
For 2025, Toyota introduces the limited Hakone Special Edition (priced at $35,270), featuring a striking green paint job, bronze 18-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and Sachs shock absorbers. Only 850 units will be available, adding exclusivity to the GR86 lineup.
2025 Mazda MX-5 ($29,330+)
When it comes to affordable driving excitement, the answer is always Miata. The 2025 Mazda MX-5, starting at a slightly lower $29,330, continues to define what a cheap sports car should be. It offers pure, unfiltered fun with its 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine delivering 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, offering pure, unfiltered fundeliversIts, offering pure, unfiltered fundeliversIts. A snappy six-speed manual transmission comes standard for enthusiasts, though an automatic option is available if that's your style.
2025 Mazda MX-5 Specifications
Engine | 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G DOHC 16-valve inline-4 |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 181 hp @ 7000 rpm |
Torque | 151 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Transmission | 6-speed manual (standard), 6-speed automatic (optional) |
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds |
Fuel Economy | 26/24 mpg (city/highway) |
For 2025, Mazda has made subtle but impactful refinements, including a new asymmetric limited-slip differential for improved cornering and updated suspension tuning that sharpens handling without sacrificing comfort. The result? A 0-60 mph sprint in just 5.5 seconds—proving that you don't need massive power for sports car thrills.
Surprisingly, the MX-5 also also impresses with its efficiency- offering 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Whether you opt for the classic Miata ($29,330) or the sleek hardtop RF ($37,350) model, the sporty coupe guarantees a thrilling ride.