Selecting an affordable sports sedan under $40,000 has never been easier. In fact, this is the starting point for certain reasonably priced luxury models, as well as a variety of economy sports sedans.
To assist you in navigating the fine line between value and economy, we have compiled a list of the top sports sedans available for under $40k, both new and used.
New Sports Sedan For Under $40,000
2023 Hyundai Elantra N ($32,900)
The 2023 Hyundai Elantra N combines style, technology, and performance in one impressive package.
It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque.
The engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that delivers quick and precise shifts.
The Elantra N also features sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a quad-tip dual exhaust system.
The interior of the Elantra N is driver-focused, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The Elantra N also has advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
2024 Toyota Camry XSE V6 ($36,845)
Indulge in the excitement of driving with the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE V6, a dynamic midsize sports sedan that offers style and substance. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE V6 is a midsize sports sedan that offers an exhilarating driving experience.
With a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a seamless eight-speed automatic transmission, this vehicle promises smooth and responsive shifts.
Enhancing its sporty appeal, the Camry XSE V6 boasts a sport-tuned suspension, sleek 19-inch alloy wheels, and a dual exhaust system.
Step inside the spacious and comfortable interior of the Camry XSE V6, and you’ll find a user-friendly 9.0-inch touchscreen display, a modern 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and a luxurious leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Plus, this model is equipped with an array of advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
2023 Dodge Charger GT ($35,345 )
Equipped with a powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine, this beast boasts an impressive 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Its eight-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless and responsive gear shifts.
With sport-tuned suspension, sleek 20-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler, the Charger GT exudes agility and style.
The interior is both spacious and comfortable, boasting an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and a luxurious leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Rest assured, the Charger GT has advanced safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Dominate the road with the 2023 Dodge Charger GT.
2024 Kia K5 GT ($31,790)
If you want the best combination of raw power, a spacious cabin, and a luxurious design full of details, then you need to look into the 2024 Kia K5 GT. With its bold grille, sculpted lines, and aggressive stance, this sedan exudes confidence and sophistication.
Under the hood, the K5 GT boasts a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering an impressive 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
This sedan offers seamless shifting and instant acceleration, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Whether cruising on the highway or tackling twisting roads, the K5 GT delivers a thrilling driving experience.
Inside the cabin, the K5 GT offers a driver-centric cockpit with advanced features. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is equipped with Kia’s Connect with digital key, providing seamless connectivity and access to a wide range of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
The high-resolution display also serves as a virtual instrument cluster, offering customizable information to the driver.
2024 Subaru Legacy Turbo ($34,495)
Sedans may fall by the wayside in favor of SUVs, but the Subaru Legacy soldiers are on. This five-seat mid-size sedan has been part of Subaru’s lineup for decades, with the most recent generation introduced for model year 2020.
For the 2024 model year, the Legacy receives minimal changes following a slight update last year. It offers a choice between two four-cylinder engines and includes standard all-wheel drive.
Most trims feature a 2.5-liter, 182-horsepower four-cylinder engine, whereas the Sport and Touring XT models boast a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 260 horsepower. All versions of the Legacy are equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission.
An exciting addition is that the Sport trim now incorporates Subaru’s 11.6-inch Starlink Multimedia Plus touchscreen system, which includes a premium Harman Kardon audio system and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2024 Acura Integra A-specs Tech Package ($36,500)
If you are someone looking for an entry-level luxury car then 2024 Acura Integra is best for you. While the driving experience may not offer the same excitement as some competitors, its spacious interior, big trunk, and strong features contribute to the car’s overall value.
Furthermore, the A-Spec package includes adaptive dampers, significantly improving over Honda’s standard dampers found in the Civic Hatchback Touring. This upgrade enhances the overall driving experience and contributes to a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Still, even though the CVT performs as needed,a six-speed manual usually still provides the extra driving delight most drivers crave. Plus, it is powered by a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 320 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Used Sport Sedan Under $40,000
f you are willing to take the risk of purchasing a used car, where you will not benefit from free servicing and warranty, you can find some luxury sports sedan models for under $40,000 with better specifications, more powerful engines, and relatively more features.
2021 Cadillac CT4-V Series ($33,000 – $37,000)
Being the only American option in a market dominated by European manufacturers, the 2021 Cadillac CT4 faces the challenge of proving its worth.
Fortunately, its sleek design complements its enjoyable driving experience, making it an appealing entry-level Cadillac that caters to enthusiasts’ preferences.
Cadillac has laid a solid foundation for the CT4, incorporating a respectable array of technological features, two turbocharged engine options, the availability of all-wheel drive, and the inclusion of a V-Series trim level that heightens the car’s credentials as a sporty sedan.
However, the CT4 falls short in the refinement and polish offered by its competing counterparts, ultimately making them more compelling picks.
2020/2021 Audi S4 ($38,000-$39,000)
The Audi S4 stands as a prime example of Audi’s craftsmanship, offering a thrilling and dynamic driving experience.
Engineered with a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder powerhouse, the S4 unleashes a commanding 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
This mighty output surpasses the standard A4 by a remarkable 148 horsepower and outshines the optional engine found in the upgraded 45 TFSI trim by an impressive 88 horsepower.
However, the S4 is not just about power; it also incorporates a carefully engineered sports suspension, ensuring precise handling and an exhilarating ride. Additionally, the interior is appointed with top-notch materials, enhancing both comfort and luxury.
The extra performance doesn’t require much of a sacrifice; the S4 is still a comfortable, quiet and easy-to-drive luxury sedan.
2016/2017 BMW M3 ($36,000 -$37,000)
The BMW M3 has become a fundamental part of the performance car world since its introduction in 1988.
The 2017 BMW M3 is a world-class high-performance sedan” that offers “fierce acceleration from a turbocharged engine, highly capable handling with agreeable ride quality, powerful brakes, and an upscale, well-equipped interior with room for four adults.
The 2017 model also includes the latest version of BMW’s iDrive infotainment interface and standard adaptive suspension dampers.
The 2016 BMW M3 is also a great option, with similar features and performance to the 2017 model. The 2016 BMW M3 has a powerful turbocharged engine, sharp handling, and a well-built interior with high-quality materials.
2020/2021 Lexus IS 350 ($32,000 – $37,000)
The 2021 Lexus IS 350 is a V6-powered small luxury sedan that, along with the four-cylinder IS 300, competes against the best four-doors that the world has to offer.
The ride quality is smooth and comfortable on bumpy roads, and the handling is nimble and secure. The car has more features for the money compared to German alternatives.
However, the back seat is still tight for the class, and the acceleration is lackluster for a six-cylinder luxury sedan. Storage and cargo space are limited. The exterior is thoroughly overhauled with slim headlights, full-width taillights, and redesigned rocker panels.
Though it’s still the same car underneath, the 2021 IS seeks to solve the most pressing problems. Among the changes are structural and suspension revisions and a much-needed rethink of the infotainment system.
The 2020 Lexus IS 350 provides the latest look at trim-level features and specs, performance, safety, and comfort. The car has middling fuel economy and, at least in F-Sport guise, an overly firm ride quality.
The clunky infotainment interface is particularly grating when considering how many rivals offer more user-friendly systems.
Build quality is still top-notch, but overall the IS 350 is outclassed by the Genesis G70, Mercedes C-Class, and Volvo S60
2017/2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 ($35,000 – $37,000)
The 2017 and 2018 models of the Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 have a lot in common. Both models are powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque.
The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts gears quickly and smoothly. The car’s all-wheel-drive system is rear-biased, which makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads.
However, there are some differences between the two models. The 2017 model has an outdated infotainment system and stiff suspension that can make the ride uncomfortable.
The 2018 model, on the other hand, has a gorgeous cabin and is loaded with luxury features. However, the suspension is still brutally stiff and the infotainment system is substandard.
Ultimately, both models provide the expected AMG luxury, power, and handling, but the ride can be punishing.
Final Thoughts
Discover the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and value with these remarkable models, each offering a unique driving experience. So hit the road in style and experience the thrill of these outstanding machines.
