By Edmunds and Josh Jacotte
Prices for new cars for the latest high-performance sports cars continue to rise. Even the new Chevrolet Corvette, which has long been considered a performance bargain compared to things like the Porsche 911, has a starting price of almost $70,000. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a really capable car that is fully-loaded and truly capable by driving enthusiasts on a budget.
Edmunds automotive experts came up with five favorite performance vehicles for under $35,000. Certainly, I can’t buy anything with the V8. The same applies to power – the best power performer costs more. However, the vehicles listed here have other distinct advantages. All prices below include destination fees:
Dodge Hornet GT
The first vehicle has irony on the list of budget performance cars not cars. But Dodge’s Hornet isn’t your usual little SUV. First, there is Italian heritage. Although we don’t know about that in our styling, Hornet shares much of its mechanical design with the Alfa Romeotonless Mall Luxury SUV. Secondly, it’s really powerful for pint-sized SUVs. The GT version has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that cranks out 268 horsepower, enough to go 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. Another bonus: There is standard all-wheel drive for all-season driving and more cargo space than a typical performance car.
2025 Hornet Start Price: $31,590
Ford Mustang Eco Boost
The Ford Mustang GT with the Rumbly V8 is well beyond the $35,000 price rise. But the cheaper Ford Mustang Ecoboost is a viable alternative. Having a turbocharged four cylinder under the hood might seem heretical, but it cannot be argued with 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque output. With the 10-speed automatic rotating the rear wheels, the Mustang Eco Boost can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The latest Mustangs are comfortable, stylish and have the latest technology features, but offer a classic American driving experience.
2025 Mustang Coupe Start Price: $33,515
Mazda MX-5 Miata
You may be able to see the Mazda MX-5 Miata Roadster in the hands of a cool head retiree on a lonely canyon road as you find yourself tearing a cone on an autocross. In both cases, Miata’s appeal comes down to fundamentals for driving. The four-cylinder engine directs 181 horsepower towards the rear wheels either via a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission. That’s not that much, but it’s not much needed if the car is as light as a Miata. The manual equipped Miata went from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds on the Edmunds test track. Beyond the numbers, Miata is all about playfulness. A combination of quick steering, agile handling and a slow top makes the drive worth it.
2025 MX-5 MIATA Start Price: $30,715
Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86
The Subaru BRZ and the Toyota 86 are mechanically related. Both use a rated 4-cylinder 228 horsepower rated engine, sending power to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Edmunds discovered that these cars can sprint to 60 mph in about six seconds when equipped with a manual. It’s strong enough to make it interesting, but not enough to get new drivers into too much trouble. Make these amazing beginner sports cars. And there’s a center of gravity and a low center of classic rear-wheel drive balance that helps drivers learn more about car control. But even if you master them, Eimi’s twins don’t stop having fun.
2025 Toyota GR86 Starting Price: $31,135. 2025 Subaru BRZ Starting Price: $32,380
Volkswagen GTI
The Volkswagen GTI is a typical budget performance hatchback. Driving is fun and engaging, but practical and comfortable every day. Few cars can do as much as the GTI. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 241 horsepower. In 2025, all GTIs will have a 7-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Edmunds found it suitable for 0-60 mph sprints for 5.9 seconds. In addition to performance, the GTI has a spacious cabin and generous cargo area of its size. The original hot hatch, which traces American lineage all the way through 1983, is a solid performance value.
Start of manufacturer recommended retail price: $33,640
Edmunds says
Spending less than $35,000 gives you a fun vehicle to drive in 2025. Each model here has distinct advantages. If space and practicality are your priority, you may prefer a Hornet or Golf GTI. Miata, Brz and GR86 all offer great feel and connection to the road. If you choose one of these, it depends on whether you need a convertible top or additional security in the coupe. The Mustang can’t beat the styling and legacy of its classic pony car.
This story was provided to the Associated Press by the car website Edmunds. Josh Jacotte is a contributor to Edmunds.
