When it comes to choosing a new sedan, many people are looking for a combination of speed, comfort, and value for money. For those who crave a thrilling driving experience but are also mindful of their budget, there are several sedans under $40,000 that deliver exceptional performance without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we will explore some of the fastest sedans available in this price range. We’ll delve into each car’s performance capabilities, features, and what makes them stand out in a competitive market.
From turbocharged engines to advanced technology, these sedans offer a blend of speed, style, and sophistication. Let’s explore the best options to help you make an informed decision on your next purchase.
Note: The prices of all new models reviewed here have been verified using leading dealerships and reputable automotive websites, including Car and Driver, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), TrueCar, Cars.com, and CarGurus.
The specifications and engine power were cross-referenced with the information provided on the manufacturers’ official websites. And 0 to 60 MPH is measured using Car and Driver, and Zero to 60 times speed tests.
1. 2024 Honda Civic Si
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- Torque: 192 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 6.6 seconds
The Honda Civic Si has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts for its dynamic performance and reasonable price. The 2024 model is no different, bringing a lively 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque.
This engine, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, makes the Civic Si a joy to drive. The car’s agile handling and responsive steering provide a thrilling experience on both city streets and winding roads.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $29,100
- Key Features: 18-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, adaptive dampers, dual-zone climate control, 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility.
2. 2024 Hyundai Elantra N
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 276 hp
- Torque: 289 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or optional 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 5.0 seconds
The Hyundai Elantra N is a new addition to the N performance lineup, offering a powerful engine and sporty handling. It comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, or an optional 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for those who prefer an automatic. The Elantra N is not just about straight-line speed; it also features a sophisticated suspension setup that ensures excellent handling and cornering capabilities.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $33,700
- Key Features: N-specific performance enhancements, 19-inch wheels, electronically controlled suspension, sport exhaust, 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation.
3. 2024 Subaru WRX
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER-4
- Horsepower: 271 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 5.5 seconds
The Subaru WRX is a legendary name in the world of performance sedans. Known for its rally-inspired roots, the 2024 WRX continues the tradition with a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine that delivers 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
The WRX comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which provides exceptional traction and stability in all conditions. The standard 6-speed manual transmission offers an engaging experience, while a CVT option is available for those who prefer automatic shifting.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $32,735
- Key Features: All-Wheel Drive, active torque vectoring, sport-tuned suspension, 11.6-inch multimedia display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
4. 2024 Kia Stinger GT-Line
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 300 hp
- Torque: 311 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 5.2 seconds
The Kia Stinger GT-Line is a stylish and powerful sedan that offers great value for money. Under the hood, it features a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
This powerful engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, providing quick and smooth gear changes. The Stinger GT-Line is also equipped with rear-wheel drive, which enhances its sporty driving dynamics.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $39,500
- Key Features: 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, Harman Kardon premium audio system, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and advanced driver assistance systems.
5. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 228 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 6.1 seconds
The Volkswagen Jetta GLI is a sporty sedan that combines practicality with performance. It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that generates 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
The Jetta GLI offers a choice between a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, allowing drivers to select their preferred driving style. The Jetta GLI’s performance is further enhanced by its sport-tuned suspension and limited-slip differential, which provide excellent handling and cornering capabilities.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $28,085
- Key Features: Digital cockpit, 10-color ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, BeatsAudio sound system, panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety features.
6. 2024 Mazda 3 Turbo
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: Up to 250 hp (with premium fuel)
- Torque: 320 lb-ft (with premium fuel)
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 5.6 seconds
The Mazda 3 Turbo offers a refined and powerful driving experience. It comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The Mazda 3 Turbo is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, providing flexibility for different driving conditions.
The car also features a luxurious interior with high-quality materials, making it a great choice for those who want both performance and comfort.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $35,000
- Key Features: 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, leather-trimmed seats, heads-up display, adaptive cruise control, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
7. 2024 Dodge Charger SXT
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 3.6-liter V6
- Horsepower: 292 hp
- Torque: 260 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 6.4 seconds
The Dodge Charger SXT is a large sedan that offers a blend of comfort, style, and power. It comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful sedans in its class.
The Charger SXT also features an 8-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and quick shifts. Its rear-wheel-drive layout enhances its performance credentials, while all-wheel drive is available for those seeking better traction in all weather conditions.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $33,000
- Key Features: 7-inch touchscreen, Uconnect infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, rearview camera, keyless entry, and optional all-wheel drive.
8. 2024 Nissan Maxima
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 3.5-liter V6
- Horsepower: 300 hp
- Torque: 261 lb-ft
- Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 5.7 seconds
The Nissan Maxima is known for its blend of sporty performance and luxury. The 2024 model features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that simulates shifts to provide a more engaging driving experience.
The Maxima also boasts a well-appointed interior with premium materials, making it a great choice for those who want a balance of performance and comfort.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $39,000
- Key Features: 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bose premium audio system, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and advanced driver assistance systems.
9. 2024 Toyota Camry TRD
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 3.5-liter V6
- Horsepower: 301 hp
- Torque: 267 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 5.6 seconds
The Toyota Camry TRD is a performance-oriented version of the popular Camry sedan. It comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful sedans in this price range.
The Camry TRD also features a sport-tuned suspension and enhanced braking system, which provide excellent handling and stopping power. This sedan combines Toyota’s reputation for reliability with a sporty driving experience.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $34,000
- Key Features: TRD-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, aerodynamic body kit, sport exhaust, 9-inch touchscreen display, and a suite of advanced safety features including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
10. 2024 Acura Integra
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Type: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- Torque: 192 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: 7.0 seconds
The Acura Integra returns as a sporty and luxurious sedan that offers great performance and value. It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque.
The Integra comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, and an automatic transmission is also available. The sedan’s precise steering and agile handling make it fun to drive, while its upscale interior provides comfort and refinement.
Price and Features:
- Starting Price: $31,000
- Key Features: 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, leatherette seats, premium audio system, and AcuraWatch suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies.
Conclusion
Choosing the fastest sedan under $40,000 doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or features. The models listed above provide a great balance of performance, comfort, and technology, all within a reasonable budget.
Whether you’re looking for the raw power of the Dodge Charger, the precision handling of the Mazda 3 Turbo, or the sporty dynamics of the Honda Civic Si, there is a sedan out there to suit your needs and driving style.
Consider what features are most important to you, such as all-wheel drive, manual transmission, or advanced safety technologies, and use this guide to help you make an informed decision on your next purchase.
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