Affordable High-Performance Autos: Five Top Picks Under $35,000 (Edmunds)
Performance Vehicles Under $35,000: Top Picks for 2025
Are you dreaming of a high-performance, budget-friendly car? Look no further! The vehicle experts at Edmunds have curated a fantastic list of performance vehicles under $35,000 for 2025. Don't sweat the V8s or the electrics just yet - these bad boys pack a serious punch and won't break your piggy bank!
The Suave and Powerful: Dodge Hornet GT
Who said small SUVs couldn't be fierce? Enter the Dodge Hornet GT, fully equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine churning out 268 horsepower. This shining starsamboasts a 0 to 60 mph sprint in around 6.5 seconds and flaunts standard all-wheel drive for rugged all-season driving. Plus, it boasts more cargo space than your typical performance car[1].
Starting Price: $31,590
The Ford Mustang EcoBoost: A Turbocharged Twist of Americana
A Mustang GT with its roaring V8 might be out of reach, but the less expensive Ford Mustang EcoBoost is a worthy substitute. Under the hood, you'll find a turbocharged four-cylinder, powering a 0 to 60 mph dash in an impressive 5.6 seconds. With a classic American driving experience, stylish design, and cutting-edge tech features, this vomit-inducing fastback is a force to be reckoned with[1].
Starting Price: $33,515
The Legendary Mazda MX-5 Miata: A Retiree's Dream and Enthusiast's Wonder
From tearing up lonesome canyon roads to dominating autocross events, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is a champion of driving fun[1]. Sporting a four-cylinder engine that dishes out 181 horsepower, this machine shines on twists and turns. Add in a lightweight design, quick steering, and the allure of a convertible top, and it's no wonder it remains popular among both retirees and enthusiasts[1].
Starting Price: $30,715
Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86: The Jaw-Dropping Japanese Duo
Known as the Toyabaru twins, these sports cars share a mechanical heart, playing into the hands of enthusiasts seeking a balanced, engaging driving experience[1]. With a staggering 228 horsepower, 6-second 0 to 60 mph sprints, and a low center of gravity, these cars offer exotic performance without the exorbitant price tag[1].
Starting Prices:- Toyota GR86: $31,135- Subaru BRZ: $32,380
The Volt powered Volkswagen GTI: A European Standard for Fun and Practicality
The Volkswagen GTI sets the standard when it comes to affordable, practical performance. Combining daily drivability with thrilling performance, it has been a favorite among enthusiasts for its engaging handling, quality craftsmanship, and iconic hot-hatch status[1]. The 2025 model boasts a more powerful turbocharged engine, seven-speed automatic transmission, and improved everyday practicality[1].
Starting Price: $33,640
The Genius Behind the List: Edmunds
Say hello to Edmunds, the auto gurus who compiled this fantastic list. From sporty coupes to practical hatchbacks, they've got your back if you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping ride under $35,000[2].
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This article was originally written for The Associated Press by automotive contributor Josh Jacquot from Edmunds[2].
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[1] Enrichment Data[2] Original Source[3] Additional Reference for Mazda MX-5 Miata[4] Additional Reference for Volkswagen GTI
- The Dodge Hornet GT, a small SUV with a powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine, promises a thrilling driving experience while still offering practicality for everyday use, with a starting price of $31,590.
- The Ford Mustang EcoBoost is a stylish and technologically advanced coupe that provides an impressive 0 to 60 mph time and a classic American driving experience, starting at just $33,515.
- The Mazda MX-5 Miata, a favorite among both retirees and enthusiasts, offers an engaging driving experience with a lightweight design, quick steering, and a starting price of $30,715.
- The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ, also known as the Toyabaru twins, share a mechanical heart and deliver exotic performance at a more affordable price, with starting prices of $31,135 for the Toyota GR86 and $32,380 for the Subaru BRZ.
- The Volkswagen GTI, a hot-hatch favorite, combines daily drivability with thrilling performance and has been updated for 2025 with a more powerful engine, seven-speed automatic transmission, and improved practicality, starting at $33,640.
- In addition to providing insights on performance vehicles under $35,000, the automotive experts at Edmunds offer valuable advice on a wide range of automotive topics, including sporty coupes, practical hatchbacks, and more.
