Saving & Spending Home & Auto

8 Cars Under $50,000 That Drive Like Much More Expensive Ones

These luxury and sporty vehicles are options for those with modest budgets.

Smiling woman driving
Updated Sept. 24, 2024
Fact checked

We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

Buying a car in today’s market can be intimidating. Interest rates on car loans have soared, and people are struggling to find the right vehicle and find ways to lower car costs.

However, there are still some great options available, especially if you hope to spend less. Check out some of the following stylish vehicles that could be a good fit for both your garage and your budget.

If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive discounts and financial resources

Over 50? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on things like travel, meal deliveries, eyeglasses, prescriptions that aren’t covered by insurance and more.

How to become a member today:

  • Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
  • Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
  • Start enjoying your discounts and perks!

Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (Do not skip this step!) Doing so will allow you to take up 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.

Become an AARP member now

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Courtesy of Mazda Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 has been around in the U.S. since the late 1980s and is a great option for fans of small and sporty-looking vehicles.

The current MX-5 Miata has a starting base price of $28,985. The cost can go up from there depending on whether you want the Sport, Cub, or Grand Touring version of the car. This car could help you keep more money in your bank account compared to many others in a similar category. 

Remember to consider the wait time on the Club, which is built to order.

BMW 230i

Courtesy of BMW BMW 230i

Yes, you can own a BMW for less than $50,000: The BMW 230i gives you the chance to drive a luxury car within your not-so-luxury budget.

This two-door sedan features the engineering and styling BMW is known for. You can also add stylish wheels and a dark-trim package for the exterior to make the car stand out.

The base price starts at $39,200, but give yourself some room for upgrades.

Toyota GR Supra

Courtesy of Toyota Toyota GR Supra

The Toyota Supra was a beloved sporty car that disappeared from Toyota’s lineup in the early part of this century. Now, a new version is back on American roads.

The 2024 Toyota GR Supra has a starting cost of $46,440. That price is close to the $50,000 limit, so remember to factor in any potential add-ons that could bump you over that mark.

If you want the brand-new 2025 model, you'll be over the $50,000. The base price for this version is $56,250.

Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt

Credit card debt is suffocating. It constantly weighs on your mind and controls every choice you make. You can end up emotionally and even physically drained from it. And even though you make regular payments, it feels like you can never make any progress because of the interest.

National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1

How to get National Debt Relief to help you resolve your debt: Sign up for a free debt assessment here. (Do not skip this step!) By signing up for a free assessment, National Debt Relief can assist you in settling your debt, but only if you schedule the assessment.

Try it

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Courtesy of Ford Ford Mustang Mach-E

Car companies are transitioning to more electric vehicle options that you can still buy at an affordable price.

One of those options is the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the company’s electric SUV option under its iconic Mustang brand. You can grab a Mach-E for a base price of $39,995 from your local dealer.

Pro tip: If you’re worried about your budget, check out if your purchase might be eligible for electric vehicle tax credits at the state or federal level. Taking advantage of something like this is a smart move if you own a car.

Honda Civic Type R

Courtesy of Honda Honda Civic Type R

The Honda Civic sedan starts at $24,250 for those worried about spending less than $50,000.

But if you want something with more performance, check out the Honda Civic Type R to get that extra sporty feel. The Type R includes more power, attention to aerodynamic details, and a higher level of performance. It also has a base price of $44,795.

Cadillac XT4

Courtesy of Cadillac Cadillac XT4

Yes, you can afford a Cadillac on a budget of less than $50,000.

The XT4 features all the luxuries you might expect from a Cadillac SUV without the super-high price tag. Pick up an XT4 for a base price of $46,420, which gives you plenty of room to add on extra features while still sticking to your budget.

Subaru BRZ

Courtesy of Subaru Subaru BRZ

Check out a Subaru BRZ if your budget is super tight but you still want a sporty car.

The BRZ has a base price of $30,195, putting it well below the $50,000 limit. The car comes with an automatic transmission as well as paddle shifters if you prefer those.

Mercedes-Benz C 300

Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz C 300

Check out Mercedes-Benz if you’re looking for a luxury compact car at a reasonable price.

For example, the Mercedes-Benz C 300 starts out at $48,450. The compact sedan has a sleek interior design that will allow you to drive a luxury car within your budget.

Bottom line

Yuri Bizgaimer/Adobe cars for sale stock lot row

If you are looking for a great vehicle, affordable options abound. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to feel good about your car purchase.

So, if you want to lower your financial stress, consider the vehicles on this list. Driving them will make you feel like a million bucks without having to spend anywhere near that amount.

  • You could save up to $600 with some companies
  • Compare dozens of providers in under 5 minutes
  • Fast, free and easy way to shop for insurance
  • Quickly find the perfect rate for you