Even because the world buys increasingly more SUVs, sedans stay widespread sufficient, and folks nonetheless like to mix four-door practicality with driving enjoyable. And patrons wanting to try this are spoiled for selection. So we have rounded up our picks for finest sport sedans that can assist you along with your buying.
Listed alphabetically, this listing addresses sedans from all worth, powertrain and physique fashion segments. Meaning we have included vehicles from inexpensive to spendy, gas-powered to electrical, rear- to all-wheel drive, and conventional four-door to liftback. To have made it to this listing, these vehicles needed to be oriented to enjoyable driving and have a low, sedan-like form. So not solely are these our favourite sport sedans, there’s one right here for almost any pocketbook or different choice.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
Why it stands out: Punchy four-cylinder; astounding energy from Quadrifoglio; gentle and nimble character; superior shift paddles
Might be higher: Clunky infotainment; sub-par switchgear
Learn our Alfa Romeo Giulia overview
We begin this listing with probably the most predictable inclusions: the Alfa Romeo Giulia. Sure, it is a stereotype that the Italian sport sedan is enjoyable to drive, however the truth is, properly, it’s. The Giulia comes customary with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 280 horsepower, making it probably the most highly effective four-cylinders within the section. It is paired with a quick and easy eight-speed transmission and both rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
The engine is full of life and torquey, if a bit of wanting revs, and the chassis feels super-light. The steering is keen and the automobile jumps into corners. We additionally extremely suggest getting a model with the large and very good aluminum paddle shifters that make clicking by means of gears far more entertaining. And on the subject of the inside, it is engaging, however the numerous switches and knobs feels a bit of low-cost, and the infotainment system is clunky.
After all there’s additionally the unbelievable Giulia Quadrifoglio. It will get a Ferrari-derived twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 making 505 hp, and it is rear-wheel drive solely. It is the most effective driving vehicles on the planet with clear, talkative steering, a great deal of grip, and a nimble feeling. And clearly it is darn quick with all that energy. You will have to be fairly properly off to afford its base worth that tops $80,000, although.
BMW 3 Collection and M3
Why it stands out: A number of powertrain choices; certain dealing with; obtainable handbook within the M3
Might be higher: Barely steep base worth; numb steering; no handbook; questionable styling
Learn our BMW 3 Collection overview and our M3 overview
Whereas it has faltered previously, the small luxurious sport sedan benchmark is in significantly better kind in its present iteration. And there are a lot of issues that make the three Collection interesting. It is obtainable with a turbo four-cylinder, a plug-in hybrid four-cylinder, or a couple of completely different variations of a turbocharged straight-six. It additionally boasts an incredible inside with high-end supplies and extremely snug seats. The infotainment can also be responsive with crisp shows, although a bit of menu-heavy. And naturally, each model has a fast and enjoyable chassis.
The bottom 330i mannequin will get a 255-hp turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It’s extremely responsive and makes nice low-down torque. The eight-speed transmission, variations of which seem in all the three Collection fashions, is quick and easy, and the most effective within the section. Steering is fairly numb, however the chassis is stiff and desperate to nook. The BMW rides very properly, too. For a bit extra energy, there’s the plug-in hybrid that makes 288 hp and has as much as 22 miles of electrical vary. It does not value far more, both.
The four-cylinder fashions are strong, however the six-cylinder vehicles are, unsurprisingly, extra thrilling. The M340i’s turbo six-cylinder makes 382 hp. It additionally will get upgraded suspension, brakes and an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential. Then there are the M3 fashions that enhance energy to 473 hp for the bottom mannequin, and 503 hp for the Competitors. In addition they get extra suspension, braking and transmission upgrades to make for some astounding sports activities sedans to rival the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. The bottom M3 additionally boasts one of many solely handbook transmissions within the section. With a base worth that tops $70,000, it is not low-cost, but it surely’s fairly a bit cheaper than the Alfa.
Cadillac CT4
Why it stands out: Extraordinarily communicative steering and chassis; wholesome four-cylinder choices; highly effective Blackwing mannequin; obtainable handbook transmission
Might be higher: Inside is a bit bland; handbook solely on the Blackwing; base four-cylinder is not significantly inspiring
Learn our Cadillac CT4 overview
The twenty first century has been a time of reinvention for Cadillac because it transitioned from floaty barges to world-class sport sedans. The Cadillac CT4 represents one of many final inner combustion Cadillacs, and it is a very good instance of the breed with glorious dealing with, spectacular refinement, and the provision of an unbelievable halo mannequin.
There are three fundamental iterations of the automobile, beginning with the bottom turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 237 hp or a 310-hp turbo 2.7-liter four-cylinder. Above that’s the CT4-V with a 325-hp model of that 2.7-liter engine, and the monster CT4-V Blackwing with a 472-hp twin-turbo V6. Solely the Blackwing is out there with a six-speed handbook transmission, and the four-cylinder vehicles are the one ones obtainable with all-wheel drive.
In case you can, we suggest stretching to at the very least one of many 2.7-liter fashions, however each CT4 is extraordinarily composed and responsive in its strikes, with immense communication. It is probably the most participating vehicles within the section. And naturally, the Blackwing improves issues immensely, and is a uncommon handbook possibility within the high-end compact sport sedan section. It is so good, one among our editors truly ordered one. If that is not a ringing endorsement, we do not know what’s.
Dodge Charger
Why it stands out: Huge obtainable energy; wonderful sounds; easy and responsive transmission; trendy design; quick and practical infotainment system
Might be higher: Weak gasoline economic system; dated and comparatively small inside with subpar high quality; non-SRT fashions aren’t very sporty; all-wheel-drive solely obtainable with the V6
Learn our Dodge Charger overview
The Dodge Charger is not precisely a standard sport sedan, however that is an enormous a part of the attraction. You’ll be able to’t actually get huge rear-drive sedans with huge, naturally aspirated V8s wherever else. And so they’re paired with a velvety transmission and wrapped in curvy, aggressive bodywork. Shockingly, they’re even fairly good to drive when cruising or hitting corners because of compliant suspension and surprisingly good grip. Positive, it is nonetheless heavy and the steering is not significantly responsive, but it surely’s not dangerous, and the powertrain’s countless charisma makes up for any shortcomings. Simply try our comparability of an SRT 392 with a Kia Stinger GT (the latter of which you will discover farther down the listing). Plus, the Charger provides numerous energy for the cash, particularly the V8s: the 370-hp R/T, 485-hp Scat Pack, 707-hp Hellcat and 797-hp Hellcat Redeye. These are absurd energy figures for his or her worth level and/or simply absurd energy figures, interval.
After all, it is not solely positives with the Charger. The cabin, whereas packing a fairly good infotainment system, is dated, a bit cave-like and never as spacious feeling as you’ll anticipate from such a big automobile. All-wheel drive is just obtainable with the V6, which is definitely a strong engine, however does not really feel significantly sporty. And naturally the V8 fashions that you really want for enjoyable driving get, properly, sub-optimal gasoline economic system (each V8 mannequin will get lower than 20 mpg mixed). Nonetheless, the Charger is a singular and character-packed car for not a lot cash that is value your consideration.
Genesis G70
Why it stands out: Wonderful bang for the buck; extraordinarily highly effective V6; nice styling; sensible chassis; user-friendly infotainment
Might be higher: Cramped again seat; transmission may very well be sharper
Learn our Genesis G70 overview
Our ultimate sedan from the small luxurious sport section might be one of the best worth, the Genesis G70. It comes with both a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 252 hp, or a beefy twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 making 365 hp. Each come customary with an eight-speed computerized and rear-wheel-drive, with all-wheel drive as an possibility. And pricing begins round $38,000 for the four-cylinder, and $43,000 for the V6. So for mainly the identical worth because the four-cylinder Alfa or BMW, you’ll be able to have some critical hp. Or in order for you the four-cylinder, you’ll be able to have a wholesome low cost.
The low worth doesn’t suggest the Genesis sacrifices on high quality or driving enjoyable. The V6 particularly is a blast. It feels underrated, with the 2 turbos pinning you to the seat after they spool up. The chassis is rock-solid, balanced and communicative. The transmission feels a beat behind these used within the Alfa and BMW, however does not get in the best way of having fun with the automobile. The four-cylinder is not as thrilling, however the chassis is simply nearly as good, and the lighter engine makes it a bit extra nimble.
The inside supplies may very well be a bit of nicer, however panel gaps are tight and every part feels strong. The infotainment system is way simpler to make use of than both of the European vehicles on this listing, too. And the G70 is even higher wanting now than when it got here out. In case you’re taking a look at a enjoyable sedan from this section, you’ll be able to’t ignore the G70.
Honda Civic Si
Why it stands out: Reasonably priced worth; glorious gasoline economic system; spacious inside; a great deal of comfort and efficiency options; customary handbook transmission
Might be higher: Low on energy; no computerized transmission possibility; styling not for everybody
Learn our most up-to-date Honda Civic Si overview and knowledge on the 2022 Civic Si
It might be essentially the most inexpensive sport sedan on this listing, and is definitely quickly to get replaced, however that does not imply the Civic Si needs to be ignored. The outgoing mannequin began at round $26,000 and was extraordinarily value-packed each on the efficiency and comfort fronts. The turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder made 205 hp, which is definitely on the low facet for this group of vehicles, but it surely was paired completely with a six-speed handbook transmission and an actual, mechanical limited-slip differential. It additionally had upgraded suspension with adjustable stiffness, and the entire automobile was gentle, responsive and nimble. It additionally bought some flashy physique work and classy seats contained in the spacious inside. Plus, it was environment friendly with a mixed gasoline economic system ranking of 30 mpg.
The upcoming 2022 Civic Si may be very comparable (pictured above proper), with a retuned model of the identical turbo engine. It now makes barely much less energy at 200, but it surely makes extra energy in different elements of the rev band. The handbook and limited-slip differential stick round, however now there’s extra customization with drive modes, and even a variable exhaust system. The identical set of comfort options carries over, too. The automobile additionally takes benefit of different new-generation Civic upgrades such because the nicer inside, vastly improved infotainment system, and customarily improved chassis. It’s kind of dearer at about $28,000, however will seemingly nonetheless be an incredible and inexpensive sport sedan.
Kia Stinger
Why it stands out: Wonderful worth; significantly trendy; numerous inside room; hatchback versatility; nice chassis
Might be higher: Might have a nicer inside; transmission may very well be sharper
Learn concerning the new Kia Stinger
The Kia Stinger is carefully associated to the Genesis G70 we have already talked about, and that signifies that all the essential goodness nonetheless applies. However there are, after all, variations. The obvious of which is the physique fashion. It is notably bigger than the G70, and its fastback roofline disguises a practicality-enhancing hatchback. It is arguably even higher wanting than the traditional G70, and inside house advantages from the additional measurement, too.
It will get comparable powertrains, too, however not an identical. The bottom mannequin will get a turbocharged four-cylinder, but it surely’s a bigger 2.5-liter unit making 300 hp. The dual-turbo V6 is mainly the identical and makes 368 hp. Each are coupled to an eight-speed computerized and both rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The V6 remains to be essentially the most thrilling, and feels simply as robust as within the G70, and the chassis is simply as well-balanced, making for a highly-entertaining expertise. In a comparability, we even most well-liked the Stinger GT to the extra highly effective Charger Scat Pack (additionally listed above). It was a detailed one, although.
In contrast with its G70 cousin, the inside of the Stinger is not as good, but it surely’s nonetheless trendy, and as we have stated earlier than, it is far more spacious. And being a Kia and never a Genesis, it is extra inexpensive. The four-cylinder begins round $37,000, whereas the V6 begins round $44,00, simply above the Genesis model. The V6 Stinger does come customary with a limited-slip rear differential, an possibility on the Genesis.
Porsche Panamera
Why it stands out: Porsche dealing with; throaty V8s; obtainable plug-in hybrid fashions; hatchback practicality
Might be higher: Costly; comfortable again seat; touch-operated inside controls and air vents
Learn our Porsche Panamera overview
It is exhausting to speak about sporty vehicles with out mentioning at the very least one Porsche, if no more, and the identical applies with sedans. The Panamera is a superb instance, and one that provides a formidable array of flavors. On the base of the vary is the extra sedate twin-turbo V6 mannequin with 325 hp, which nonetheless will get it to 60 mph in a brisk 5.3 seconds. And on the high is the Turbo S E-Hybrid with a whopping 690 hp from its electrified and twin-turbocharged V8. That is not even the one hybrid variant, as you’ll be able to have the V6 paired with the plug-in hybrid system with 455 or 552 hp. And every plug-in has between 17 and 19 miles of electrical vary obtainable, relying on trim. You’ll be able to add all-wheel-drive, too, as you’ll be able to with a lot of the Panamera line-up.
And the rationale you will need one is simply how glorious it’s to drive. It has pinpoint-accurate steering with hefty, however not heavy, weight. It corners flat and tells you what is occurring. It takes off with authority within the higher-power types, and the transmission shifts immediately with no disturbances. And it does it with a quiet, snug inside and shocking practicality because of its liftback (there’s much more house when you get the Sport Turismo wagon). The V8 fashions present essentially the most aural pleasure, but it surely definitely is not required for time. Key drawbacks are that it is slightly heavy, the again seat is comfortable, and costs are hefty each to start out and for the large choices listing.
Porsche Taycan
Why it stands out: Absolutely electrical; unbelievable efficiency; Porsche dealing with, steering, construct high quality
Might be higher: Official vary is not wonderful; fairly costly; tight again seat
Learn our Porsche Taycan overview
An amazing sports activities sedan does not need to dramatically burn gasoline, as confirmed by the positively wonderful Porsche Taycan. Each model of it’s totally electrical, with the bottom model that includes a single motor and rear-wheel drive, and better trims providing two motors and all-wheel drive. And so they are available in quick, sooner and quickest variations. The bottom one makes 321 hp, the 4S makes 429 hp, the Turbo and Turbo S make 616. All of those fashions can ship extra energy briefly, and that is the principle distinction between the latter two, which have “overboost” most outputs of 670 and 750 hp, respectively.
All of them clearly present oodles of rapid torque — the common Taycan will push you towards the seat whereas the Turbos will attempt to crush you. And the remainder of the driving expertise is just about precisely what you anticipate from a Porsche. The steering is completely weighted, exact and gives cheap suggestions. There’s hardly any physique roll and it feels impartial and balanced. Regardless of the burden of the batteries, it looks like a lighter, smaller automobile. Vary is between 199 and 225 miles relying on mannequin, although we have discovered that it could actually simply outperform the EPA numbers.
The inside is typical Porsche, too; well-crafted with good supplies, however a bit plain on the design entrance. Inside house is a bit tight for rear occupants resulting from its slim door opening and low, swoopy form. Pricing can also be basic Porsche, with the Turbo S topping $186,000 earlier than any choices. However the base mannequin begins at a much more cheap $84,000. In 4S and Turbo that’ll be deep into six digits with choices. We might truly suggest the entry-level fashions which are nonetheless very quick and a great deal of enjoyable, however for a lot much less cash than the Turbo fashions. And when you want extra space, there are the Sport Turismo wagon variations.
Subaru WRX
Why it stands out: A number of energy for the cash; customary all-wheel drive; customary handbook transmission
Might be higher: Base mannequin is gentle on comfort options; CVT is not significantly enjoyable; a bit thirsty; low-rent inside
Learn our most up-to-date Subaru WRX overview and preview of the brand new 2022 WRX
One of many different extra budget-oriented sport sedans right here is one other value-packed automobile. The Subaru WRX comes customary with a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four making 268 hp. It is paired with a six-speed handbook transmission, however when you want one thing that shifts itself, it’s obtainable with a CVT. That being stated, when you can, we would recommend going for the handbook. Not solely is it extra enjoyable, it is extra environment friendly with a mixed gasoline economic system of 23 mpg versus 21 for the CVT. And like each Subaru moreover the BRZ, it has all-wheel-drive. And naturally it has upgraded suspension and a wider physique than its cousin the Impreza.
In follow, the WRX has wonderful grip and feels pretty impartial below throttle because of its all-wheel-drive system. The engine is certainly of the old-school turbo persuasion, so it is mellow till the increase builds, and it comes on in an enormous rush larger up the rev band. Hold it revved up, and it’s extremely responsive and rewarding. The much more highly effective WRX STI makes 310 hp and feels peakier, resulting from its even older 2.5-liter engine. But it surely will get extra suspension tweaks, Brembo brakes and a mechanical limited-slip middle differential with adjustable entrance and rear energy distribution.
At lower than $30,000, it is fairly inexpensive, although it’s kind of spartan so far as options, however there are higher geared up trim ranges obtainable for a bit extra money. The STI is about $10,000 dearer to start out. All WRX fashions do endure from a slightly dated, cheap-feeling inside, although with very nice seats. However when you’re extra involved about efficiency than consolation, the WRX is a superb possibility. It is also value noting {that a} fully-redesigned mannequin is on the best way with a really comparable drivetrain, however a a lot improved inside. It’s pictured above proper
Watch the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing on-road and on-track: