Yahoo Autos Our Favorite Sport Sedans under $45,000 You Can Buy Today
At this point, sedans have been losing market share for nearly a decade now. While manufacturers ponder how they can turn small hatchbacks into crossovers and as SUV sales rise, the sedan segment is shrinking, as nameplates like the Nissan Maxima and VW Passat depart the US market. But that doesn't mean prospective sedan buyers are out of luck, especially if they're looking for a sporty sedan.
Manufacturers across the spectrum continue to pump out legacy sedan nameplates while a few introduce new EV sedans. But cars aren't getting any cheaper these days, making true performance sedans like BMW's M3 hard for many enthusiast consumers to obtain. So, in an effort to show that fun sedans are still available at a reasonable price point, we've compiled a list of our favorite sport sedans under $45,000.
Genesis G70
Genesis has become a staple in the luxury market, and upscale crossovers like the GV70 are its best-selling models. But the company actually makes some very competent sedans as well. A supple but backroad-willing suspension and predictable handling characteristics help the luxurious sedan prove itself against German sedans. Even in four-cylinder trim, the G70 is handsome looking and features competitive power levels, all with a plush leather interior too.
Genesis G70
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder; 252 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Base Price: $40,525
Curb Weight: 3699 lbs.
BMW 330i
The Ultimate Driving Machine is a phrase seared into every car enthusiast's memory, but the days of lightweight, flingable E30 sedans are long gone. However, the 3-Series sedan has stuck around and still uses the tried-and-true formula of front-engine, rear-wheel drive. Compared to the big-brother M3, the regular 3-Series continues to represent the nameplate well, with balanced handling and a torquey inline-four. It has become a rather expensive car though, as the base model 330i barely qualifies for this list.
BMW 330i
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-four; 255 hp, 295 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
Base Price: $44,795
Curb Weight: 3709 lbs.
Volvo S60
Volvo's primary focus is safety, but that hasn't precluded the company from producing some engaging chassis. As the company moves toward SUVs and crossovers, Volvo has retained a gem of a sedan in the S60. A simple interior with a turbocharged, mild hybrid electric powertrain makes for a quiet ride and efficient power delivery. It may not be the fastest choice on this list, but it makes up for that in confident handling and a smooth ride.
Volvo S60
Engine: 2.0-liter intercooled turbocharged four cylinder, gas/mild hybrid electric; 247 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Base Price: $42,395
Curb Weight: 3777 lbs.
Honda Civic Si
The Honda Civic Si fits all the sedan criteria: four doors, five seats, and a lot of turbocharged fun. We recently drove the Acura Integra (which features the same powerplant) and were pleasantly surprised by how much torque is delivered on the low end. It's good that Honda mandated its 6-speed manual in the Si because it's one of the more satisfying shifters around today. The only gripe we have with the Civic Si is its lack of heated seats, which is minor.
Honda Civic Si
Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-four; 200 hp, 192 lb-ft of torque
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Base Price: $29,595
Curb Weight: 2937 lbs.
Audi A3
Audi's most affordable model is actually one of its most fun. Sure, it's not the five-cylinder RS3, but it's still a turbocharged, Quattro AWD-available, compact sedan with a vaguely sport-tuned suspension. The Volkswagen group has relied on the turbocharged 2.0-liter formula for some time now, and this newest DNVB version provides a sweet torque hit, though its horsepower figure isn't segment-leading. Even so, the tune-ability of these cars could make for an even more hardcore A3, should you desire more power.
Audi A3
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-four; 201 hp, 221 lb-ft of torque
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
Base Price: $36,495
Curb Weight: 3509 lbs.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Though we think the Audi A3 is a solid choice, Volkswagen's Jetta GLI is arguably the more cost-effective pick. With more power and a manual transmission available, Volkswagen's best performance model deal is certainly the Jetta GLI, if you like front-wheel drive. VW recently overhauled its infotainment system and interior touch points so prospective buyers will experience the company's newest interior style. Notably, both transmission choices are worthwhile, with a receptive manual shifter or a rapid-fire dual-clutch available.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-four; 228 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque
Transmission: 6-speed manual/7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Base Price: $32,680
Curb Weight: 3266 lbs.
