New car prices are averaging close to $50,000, and sticker prices can trend even higher if you’re in the market for a high-powered performance car.
The average price of a high-performance car in June 2026 was $137,126, according to Cox Automotive. That’s compared with an average price of $60,852 for a luxury sedan, according to the company.
Erin Keating, an executive analyst for Cox Automotive, said in a statement that her group’s data shows high sticker prices are not stopping most Americans from buying the cars they really want, however.
“One of the biggest shifts in today’s market is that consumers are no longer waiting for uncertainty to disappear,” Keating said. “After several years of inflation, high interest rates, and policy volatility, many buyers have come to view uncertainty as the new normal. If they need a vehicle, they’re moving forward and adjusting their budget and vehicle choice accordingly.”
With that in mind, the USA TODAY Cars Team took a look at the best high-performance cars on the market so far in 2026 that are available for less than $40,000, according to Car and Driver.
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
Starting price: $30,430Horsepower: 181
What they said: MotorTrend said in a review that “many sports cars pack bigger numbers and more badge cachet, but few deliver the pure, joyful experience of the Mazda Miata. In this little roadster, a good time is practically guaranteed.”
2. Toyota GR86
Starting price: $31,400Horsepower: 228
What they said: Edmunds said in a review that “the 2026 Toyota GR86 delivers a classic sports car experience at a price that won’t break the bank. Quick acceleration, precise steering feel and a sublime manual transmission are strengths, but exceptional handling is the GR86’s standout attribute. One of the best driver’s cars at this price point.”
3. Honda Civic Si
Starting price: $31,495Horsepower: 200
What they said: Car and Driver said in a review that “the Civic Si might not be the mightiest sport compact (or even the spiciest Civic), but its thrifty price and approachable performance envelope make it a bargain blast.”
4. Volkswagen Golf GTI
Starting price: $34,590Horsepower: 241
What they said: Cars.com said in a review that “if you need one car to be nearly everything an enthusiast driver could possibly want it to be (efficient commuter, capable canyon carver, car-pool-friendly kid carrier, cavernous cargo hauler, autocross champion), there is still no substitute for a Volkswagen Golf GTI.”
5. Hyundai Elantra N
Starting price: $35,100Horsepower: 276
What they said: U.S. News and World Report said in a review: “The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N blends a genuine fun-to-drive experience with practicality and affordability that few sport compact cars can match.”
6. Subaru BRZ
Starting price: $35,860Horsepower: 228
What they said: Car and Driver said in a review that “the Subaru BRZ’s thrills-per-dollar ratio is one of the highest of any new car, and one that keeps the fun, affordable sports car alive.”
Keith Laing is an automotive reporter on the National Trending Desk at USA TODAY. Reporting by Keith Laing, USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
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