Top 10 Best New Sports Cars Under $50k in 2022

Last updated on March 8th, 2022 at 06:18 am

Wouldn’t it be lovely if we all had the financial means to own a Bugatti La Voiture Noire? However, this roughly $19 million price tag is hardly within reach of the average individual. Is this to say we should forego some on-road excitement? Certainly not! Even on a shoestring budget, locating some of the most thrilling rides around is possible. Indeed, we’ve compiled a list of ten of the best sports cars under $50K for your consideration.

Today’s manufacturers have mastered the art of manufacturing powerful sports vehicles for the budget-conscious consumer. It is possible to have a cheap sports vehicle that excites, whether it is the Alfa Romeo Giulia, the Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody, or the Subaru WRX STI.

List of Best Sports Cars Under $50k in 2022

#1. 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Specifications:

• Price: $ 32,480
• Engine: 2.0 L Premium Unleaded I-4
• Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Two Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 181 hp
• Torque: 151

The driver is at the center of every Mazda’s design process. The MX-5 Miata is a perfect example of this. Our measurements were taken with a driver behind the wheel to ensure that the vehicle’s weight distribution was as close to 50/50 as possible. When it comes to handling, the MX-5 Miata has a long history. It has a maximum power output of 181 horsepower. Torque is 151 pound-feet. It weighs less than or equal to 2,400 pounds. When you’re behind the wheel of an MX-5 Miata, statistics become pure, sensory ecstasy that is why it is on the list for top sports cars under 50k in 2022. The optimum power-to-weight ratio is one of the many keys to this exciting driving. It’s as if your MX-5 knows precisely what you’re going to do next, anticipating your every move and executing it flawlessly.

We acquire critical insights about safety, performance, economy, and dependability by pushing our automobiles to the limit in challenging circumstances. As a result, you’ll have a more enjoyable driving experience, both on and off the track. This may be the reason why more Mazdas are raced than any other vehicle on any given weekend.

Related: 10 Best New 4-Door Sports Cars Under $20K To Buy in 2022

#2. 2022 Audi S4

Specifications:

• Price: $ 49,900
• Engine: 3.0 L Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded V-6
• Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Five Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 349 hp
• Torque: 369

The S4 gets the tiniest of changes in 2022 and is the best sports car for $50,000. Instead of brushed aluminium trim, the sporty sedan now comes standard with carbon-fibre-inspired interior details.

While the 2022 Audi S4 is not very thrilling for a sports sedan, its subtle approach to high performance will appeal to customers seeking a stealth performance vehicle. As a sportier variant of the standard Audi A4, the S4’s turbocharged engine has six cylinders rather than four, producing a healthy 349 horsepower; however, its quiet audio may calm some and dissuade others. While the Audi is not as speedy as the BMW M340i or Mercedes-AMG C43 sedans, its quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel-drive contribute to the car’s rapid acceleration. The S4 easily transitions between serene and fun modes, although its driving style is more entertaining than magical. Despite its compact size, the inside is nicely decorated, and the trunk is extensive. The 2022 S4 is a low-key, quietly athletic option for adult audiences and is best luxury sports cars under $50k.

Related: Top 10 Best New Fastest Sports Cars Under $40K

#3. 2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia

Specifications:

• Price: $ 44,945
• Engine: 2.0 L Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
• Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Five Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 23 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 280 hp
• Torque: 306

Not only does the Alfa Romeo Giulia 2022 look amazing, but it also delivers one of the most pleasurable driving experiences in its category. With its taut handling and gutsy turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Giulia is well-equipped to compete with rival sports sedans like the BMW 3-series, Genesis G70, and Mercedes-Benz C-class. While not as plentiful as comparable sedans, the Alfa’s cabin is well-equipped and designed with the driver in mind. Passengers will find the front seats large and pleasant. Still, most adults will feel constricted in the rear—a problem shared by most vehicles in this class. For those seeking the pinnacle of performance, we recommend the Giulia Quadrifoglio (reviewed separately), which has a hot-blooded 505-horsepower twin-turbo V-6.

For 2022, the Ti Sport trim has been renamed Veloce, and the Giulia range gains a slew of additional standard amenities. Its infotainment system now includes standard navigation and a wireless phone charger. In contrast, other comfort features include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, front and rear heated seats, and an air-quality system. Blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beam headlights, and front and rear parking sensors are now standard.

#4. 2022 Volkswagen Golf R

Specifications:

• Price: $ 44,640
• Engine: 2.0 L Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
• Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Five Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 315 hp
• Torque: 295

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is poised to dethrone the hottest hatchbacks that have dominated headlines in its absence. The R-rated Golf GTI results from upgrades to the future Mk8 Golf GTI. It has a more powerful 315-horsepower turbo-four and an all-wheel-drive system with a drift mode. We even included it on our Editors’ Choice list for 2022. While VW’s newest and greatest high-performance hatchback isn’t as flashy as competitors such as the Honda Civic Type R and Hyundai Veloster N, its more sophisticated style might help catch rivals off surprise while enticing consumers are looking for a fast, compact vehicle with a low-key exterior. Additionally, a bevvy of special equipment and subtle aesthetic features distinguish it from the GTI. It has a contemporary interior and plenty of electronics.

Related: Top 10 Best Sports Cars With 4 Seats To Buy in 2022

The Golf R is back for 2022 after a sabbatical from the 2019 model year. Its revival coincides with the introduction of the eighth-generation Golf GTI. With VW preparing to discontinue sales of the standard Golf hatchback and station waggon in the United States, the GTI and R will be the only models available. Fortunately, both are personal favourites.

#5. 2022 Subaru WRX STI

Specifications:

• Price: $ 30,100
• Engine: 2.0 L Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded H-4
• Transmission: 6-Speed Manual Transmission
• Seating capacity: Five Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 268 hp
• Torque: 258

Although rally-inspired sport compact vehicles are on the point of extinction, the new 2022 Subaru WRX attempts to rekindle interest in this enthusiast-oriented type. The 2018 WRX promises to be an upgrade over the preceding model, thanks to the adoption of a new design to improve driving characteristics and the inclusion of a more powerful 271-hp turbocharged flat-four engine. Its modern interior design and 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system now more closely resemble newer competitors such as the Hyundai Elantra N, Volkswagen Golf GTI, and Jetta GLI. Of course, only the WRX is all-wheel drive. Without the muscle to compete with the 315-horsepower Volkswagen Golf R, Subaru enthusiasts must impatiently await the unveiling of the more powerful STI variant. Until then, the 2022 WRX and its daring styling provide fans with something new and exciting to look forward to.

The Subaru WRX 2022 is the popular all-wheel-drive sport compact version. It is built on a new chassis with a unique body design. It is powered by a more extensive, somewhat powerful turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine. Subaru has not yet disclosed information about the WRX’s more sporty brother, the STI.

#6. 2022 Toyota Supra

Specifications:

• Price: $ 44,135
• Engine: 2.0 L Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
• Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Two Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 255 hp
• Torque: 295

It’s been a few years since the Supra returned to Toyota’s lineup after a lengthy absence. Yet, despite our increasing familiarity with the Supra, the 2022 Supra remains one of our favourite sports cars. Indeed, it is on our Editors’ Choice list for 2022. Although it was conceived and manufactured concurrently with the BMW Z4 convertible, the Supra coupe has a personality of its own, despite the two vehicles sharing the same powertrains. The latter has two turbocharged engines: a basic 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 255 horsepower and an optional 3.0-litre inline-six with 382-hp. Both machines are connected to the rear wheels through a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox. The Toyota’s interior is compact and surprisingly luxurious, owing primarily to incorporating BMW components. Additionally, the 2022 Supra is loaded with infotainment and safety technology.

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Toyota has created a new limited-edition trim named A91-CF for the 2022 model year. CF stands for Carbon Fiber. Only 600 units will be produced. Each will have a carbon-fibre body package, a rear spoiler, matte black 19-inch wheels, and red and black inside upholstery. Three exterior colours are available for the A91-CF Edition: Phantom (matte grey), Absolute Zero White, and Nitro Yellow. Apart from that, the Supra now comes standard with heated seats in 3.0 variants, a new red interior design for the 3.0 Premium, and a full-screen Apple CarPlay for cars equipped with the optional JBL radio system.

#7. 2022 Genesis G70

Specifications:

• Price: $ 43,445
• Engine: 3.3 L Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded V-6
• Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Five Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 365 hp
• Torque: 376

Although the 2022 G70 shares its foundations with the Kia Stinger, it ups the luxury factor. It demonstrates that the Genesis brand is a viable entry-luxury contender. To compete with sports sedan leaders such as the BMW 3-series and Mercedes-Benz C-class, the G70 needs both a sporty chassis and a sumptuous interior—all of which are strengths of the G70. Not only does it provide enjoyable driving and a well-appointed interior, but the smallest Genesis sedan also exemplifies the brand’s value price, coming in several thousand dollars less than major German competitors. It contributes to its inclusion on our Editors’ Choice list for 2022. Not to mention its usual ten-year warranty, which is more than twice that of most entry-luxury vehicles.

Genesis has modified the front and back appearance of its entry-luxury G70 sedan for 2022, as well as interior improvements that put the vehicle visibly in line with the new G80 sedan and GV80 SUV. Genesis has also addressed one of our criticisms with a new, bigger, and more premium-looking infotainment touchscreen inside the G70 for 2022. The six-speed manual gearbox option for the G70 has been withdrawn.

#8. 2022 Tesla Model 3

Specifications:

• Price: $ 46,440
• Engine: Electric
• Transmission: Automatic
• Seating capacity: Five Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 118 mpg in the city and 107 mpg on the highway

With a near-ideal combination of performance, range, and affordability, the 2022 Tesla Model 3 lives up to the expectations. It’s quick—particularly the Performance trim—and elegant, which means the Model 3 is an electric vehicle that driving fans like us can get behind. We even included it on our Editors’ Choice list for 2022. The Model 3’s driving range is an impressive 358 miles on a single charge in the mid-level Long Range trim, eliminating the need to charge the Model 3 daily. Although its competitive entry price unlocks the Model 3’s full potential, its fit and finishes fall short of competitors like the Chevy Bolt. Ford Mustang Mach E. Nonetheless, there is no more affordable method to park one of Tesla’s ground-breaking electric vehicles on your driveway.

Also Check: Top 10 Best Stick Shift Cars To Buy in 2022

Last year, the Standard Range model was renamed Rear-Wheel Drive and equipped with a new battery pack made of lithium-ion-phosphate rather than nickel-cobalt-aluminium. Despite having a lower energy density than the previous battery pack, this entry-level model’s projected range has improved to 272 miles. Additionally, the Long Range trim’s anticipated driving range has been increased somewhat this year to 358 miles per charge.

#9. 2022 INFINITI Q60

Specifications:

• Price: $ 42,775
• Engine: 3.0 L Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded V-6
• Transmission: 7- Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Four Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 300 hp
• Torque: 295

By 2022, the Q60 range will be unchanged save for wireless Apple CarPlay. Otherwise, the sinewy sports coupe is mechanically similar to the previous model year. It has the same primary and optional amenities and is the best luxury sports car under $50k.

It’s difficult to knock the drop-dead stunning 2022 Infiniti Q60 but discriminating sports-coupe buyers want a vehicle that communicates, not simply one that looks good. The Infiniti coupe is the automotive equivalent of a dial tone for dedicated drivers. Suppose you’re looking for a taut two-door with a powerful twin-turbo V-6 that’s less expensive than comparably equipped competitors. In that case, the Q60 may be more enticing. However, the entry-level model is required to maximise that value argument since it undercuts turbo-six competitors like the BMW M440i and Audi S5 by about $15,000. While the savings come at the expense of performance and genuine luxury, it beats overpaying for the 400-horsepower Red Sport 400, which is outclassed and likely to be outpaced by the Audi and the BMW. The 2022 Q60 is more supermodel than a supercar, yet it suffices if aesthetics trump engaging handling.

#10. 2022 Lexus RC

Specifications:

• Price: $ 43,545
• Engine: 2.0 L Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
• Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating capacity: Four Seater
• Fuel Mileage: 123 mpg in the city and 99 mpg on the highway
• Horsepower: 241 hp
• Torque: 258

If you’re not cautious, the 2022 Lexus RC’s exterior will fool you into believing it’s a speedy muscle coupe capable of canyon carving, but behind its athletic exterior is a giant softie. You may go for a turbocharged four-cylinder or a normally aspirated V-6 engine. Still, regardless of whatever engine you pick, the RC is best suited for easy commutes and boulevard excursions.

The inside is roomy and pleasant — at least for the driver and front passenger — and Lexus’s plush cabin environment seems suitably opulent. The RC is also available with various essential and optional infotainment and driver-assistance technologies, but nothing about it is cutting-edge.

It is under $50k sports cars. Lexus’s sports coupe remains completely untouched for 2022 as it enters the new year with no noticeable alterations.

Conclusion

Satisfying your craving for speed does not have to be expensive. While high-performance vehicles tend to be more expensive than mainstream models, there are still many alternatives that provide thrilling performance at a reasonable price.

We identified ten new cars with sticker prices under $50,000 and zero-to-60 mph speeds of less than 5.5 seconds using data from our new car rankings and reviews, carmaker websites, and other reliable automotive media publications.