For automotive enthusiasts, the idea of owning a fast and high performance sports car is a dream that never loses its appeal. However, the reality for many of us is that our budgets don’t always align with our need for speed. That’s where fast sedans under $40,000 come into the picture.
These four-door wonders combine the practicality of a sedan with the heart-pounding performance of a sports car, all while remaining relatively affordable. In this guide, we will explore the world of quick sedans that are highly pocket friendly.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for an affordable thrill or someone who needs a family-friendly daily driver with a little extra speed, you’re about to discover a range of options that deliver speed, style, and affordability, all at a price point that won’t leave your wallet feeling the burnout.
We’re going to explore some of the best options available for under $40,000.
Gone are the days when sedans were considered slow and boring. Nowadays, you can have the best of both worlds: a practical sedan for everyday use and a thrilling driving experience that makes every trip a bit of an adventure.
In this review, we’ll take a close look at these top-quality fast sedans. We’ll examine their features, performance, and value for money.
We compared key performance metrics such as horsepower, acceleration, top speed, and handling from Car and Driver and automobile-catalog.com. Additionally, we analyzed pricing data from top car price listing websites such as KBB, True Car, Auto Trader to ensure the sedans fit within the $40,000 budget.
1. 2023 Audi A3
- Price: $35,400
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 201 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 6.3 Seconds
In the world of fast luxury sedans, the 2023 Audi A3 is a standout contender. Under the hood, the 2023 Audi A3 packs a punch with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. It might not be a high-performance sports car, but this power plant provides brisk acceleration and a lively response on the road.
Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system is available as an option, further enhancing the A3’s handling and traction, making it a great choice for those who want a fast sedan that performs well in various driving conditions.
The suspension is well-tuned to offer a balance between comfort and sportiness, giving the A3 an agile and composed feel through corners. Despite its compact size, the A3 offers a surprisingly roomy interior, especially in the front seats.
The rear seats may be a bit tight for taller passengers, but the sedan’s overall interior design makes it feel more spacious than you might expect.
2. 2023 Subaru WRX
- Price: $30,605
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 271 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.4 Seconds
Known for its rally-inspired performance, all-wheel drive capability, and affordable pricing, the WRX continues to be a favorite among enthusiasts and practical drivers alike. The heart of the 2023 Subaru WRX is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pumps out a robust 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Whether you’re conquering a twisty mountain road or navigating city streets, the WRX delivers a spirited driving experience. The WRX’s sharp steering and responsive chassis make it enjoyable to tackle corners and curves, and it provides a stable and planted feeling on the road.
While the ride is on the firm side, it remains reasonably comfortable for daily driving. With a starting price just under $30,000, the 2023 Subaru WRX is a compelling value proposition in the fast sedan segment.
3. 2023 Kia K5
- Price: $25,090
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 290 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.7 Seconds
When you think of fast sedans, the Kia K5 might not be the first name that comes to mind. However, the 2023 Kia K5 is here to challenge that perception. Kia has been making significant strides in the automotive world, and the K5 is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering exciting, affordable, and stylish vehicles.
For those seeking more power and speed, the GT-Line model features a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine propels the K5 from 0 to 60 mph in under 6 seconds, offering a genuinely exciting driving experience.
The GT-Line is a budget-friendly option for enthusiasts who crave speed and agility. With a starting price just under $25,000 for the base model and under $35,000 for the GT-Line, it fits comfortably within the budget of $40,000.
4. 2023 Cadillac CT5
- Price: $38,195
- Engine: twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6
- Horsepower: 335 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4.6 Seconds
Cadillac has long been associated with premium automobiles, and the CT5 carries on that tradition, offering an impressive driving experience without the premium price tag.
Under the hood, the 2023 Cadillac CT5 offers a range of powertrains to suit diverse driving preferences. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which generates a solid 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
This engine strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for everyday driving. For those who seek more power and speed, the CT5 offers a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that cranks out an impressive 360 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque.
This V6 engine propels the CT5 from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds, providing exhilarating acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note, making it a true fast car.
5. 2023 Dodge Charger
- Price: $32,645
- Engine: 3.6-liter V6
- Horsepower: 292 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4.5 Seconds
The 2023 Dodge Charger is a name synonymous with American muscle and power, and in the category of fast cars, it continues to reign supreme. At the heart of the 2023 Dodge Charger is a range of potent engines designed to cater to a variety of driving preferences.
The base model features a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 292 horsepower, providing a solid balance of power and efficiency for everyday driving. For those craving more muscle, Dodge offers a selection of HEMI V8 engines.
The R/T trim boasts a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 370 horsepower, while the Scat Pack gets a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 delivering a hefty 485 horsepower. For the ultimate in Charger performance, the SRT Hellcat model boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing an astonishing 717 horsepower.
Whether you opt for the base V6 model or choose one of the thunderous HEMI V8 engines, the Charger delivers a thrilling driving experience that’s hard to match in this price range.
6. 2023 Toyota Camry
- Price: $25,945
- Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 203 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 8.2 Seconds
With a perfect blend of reliability, affordability, and performance, the Camry deserves a closer look for those seeking a high performance sedan. The 2023 Toyota Camry doesn’t shout about its performance, but it delivers more than you might expect.
The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 203 horsepower, providing smooth and competent acceleration for daily driving. For those who crave more power, the Camry is available with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering an impressive 301 horsepower and brisk acceleration.
It’s not sports car territory, but it’s certainly quick, especially in the V6 variant. Inside, the Camry’s cabin is spacious and comfortable. The seats are supportive, and the rear seats offer ample space for passengers.
7. 2023 Mazda3
- Price: $22,550
- Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 191 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.6 Seconds
Known for its elegant design and excellent handling, the Mazda3 is a fantastic option for those seeking a budget-friendly and quick sedan. The 2023 Mazda3 offers a few different engine options, each focusing on both power and efficiency.
The standard engine, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, delivers 192 horsepower, which provides a pleasant driving experience for daily trips. One of the Mazda3’s strong points is its fantastic handling, making it a fun car to drive.
It has precise steering and a suspension setup that strikes a good balance between sporty and comfortable. This means it’s great for both spirited drives and regular commuting. Starting at just under $24,000 for the base model and a bit over $30,000 for the turbocharged version, the 2023 Mazda3 is one of the most budget-friendly options.
- Price: $33,545
- Engine: 3.6-liter V6
- Horsepower: 292 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4.3 Seconds
The 2023 Chrysler 300 is a testament to classic American style and performance, all at an affordable price. The 2023 Chrysler 300 offers two potent engine options. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6, producing a respectable 292 horsepower.
This V6 engine delivers smooth and competent acceleration, making it a great choice for daily driving. For those who desire more power, there’s a 5.7-liter V8 engine available on higher trims, boasting an impressive 363 horsepower.
Inside, the 300 offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, with a traditional design that exudes a sense of luxury. The front seats are well-cushioned and supportive, providing an ideal driving position. The rear seats offer ample space for passengers, making the 300 a practical choice for families.
Final Thought
When it comes to quick cars under $40K, the good news is that you don’t have to empty your wallet to experience the thrill of a high-performance car. These affordable options offer a mix of speed and style without the hefty price tag.
Whether you prefer American muscle or sleek imports, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a fun and cost-effective daily driver, these fast sedans prove you can have the best of both worlds – speed, style, and savings.
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