Isn’t it uncommon to hear someone wonder what the difference is between an exotic car and a sports car? Unfortunately, the line between all these terms can seem blurry, especially for those new to the automotive world.
This list has a little of almost everything within the realm of sports cars and performance cars, from coupes to GTs and sporty saloons. However, you won’t find exotic models on this list.
All these models are available for purchase in 2022, and some of them are within reach of many enthusiasts who seek sports car thrills but don’t have the six- or seven-figure budgets to buy an exotic car. Still, the cost-benefit ratios of some of these cars can make you forget about exotics (at least for a while).
Best New Coupes
The quintessential silhouette of a performance sports car
BMW M4 50th Anniversary
Price from: $145,938 / Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline 6 / Power: 510 hp @ 6,250 rpm / Torque: 480 lb-ft @ 2,750 – 5,950 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds / Top Speed: 180 mph
This is the BMW M4 introduced for 2022, the special edition M 50th Anniversary, and the most capable variant of the 4 Series. The M Performance accessories for the Competition Coupe version include a new titanium exhaust system that saves five kilos compared to the standard one.
It also comes with a sports suspension that lowers the ride height by 5 and 20 millimeters and new sports brake pads that allow the vehicle to stop quicker. The M Steptronic transmission is fast and precise—and with the Drivelogic system, you can modify its response.
See Also: BMW’s 2022 Model Line-Up
Shelby GT500KR
Price from: $127,895 / Engine: 5.2 L Supercharged V8 / Power: 900 hp @ N/A rpm / Torque: N/A lb-ft @ N/A rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds / Top Speed: 182 mph
On the anniversary of Shelby’s sixty years in 2022, the company invoked the mythical King of the Road with the new GT500KR, limited to 225 units.
Features include a 3.8-liter supercharger with intercooler and high-volume heat exchanger, six-speed Tremec gearbox, a carbon fiber hood with huge air intakes, new forged aluminum wheels, sport tires, competition brakes, adjustable MagneRide sport suspension, Ford Performance stabilizer bars, and a thicker and less restrictive Borla exhaust.
As options, the brand offers a wider body kit, sports harnesses, and even removing the rear seats to mount a safety cage.
Alpine A110 S
Price from: $75,000 / Engine: 1.8 L Turbocharged Inline 4 / Power: 296 hp @ 6,300 rpm / Torque: 251 lb-ft @ 2,000 / 0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds / Top Speed: 160 mph
The S model is the most track-oriented A110 in 2022, as it has a specific set-up, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, aerodynamic kit, Sabelt Sport seats, and optional semi-slick tires. This car is pure pleasure and an experience that’s hard to forget, even if it’s not on the track.
This model sports a unique two-tone bodywork combining a Flame Orange body color with a deep black roof, the S logo on the rear and door sills, and gloss black 18-inch wheels. Its interior can be completely covered in microfiber with orange stitching, and the pedals are made of aluminum.
Shelby GT500 Heritage
Price from: $75,000 / Engine: 5.2 L Supercharged V8 / Power: 760 hp @ 7,300 rpm / Torque: 625 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds / Top Speed: 180 mph
The Mustang Shelby GT500 Heritage Edition pays tribute to the original 1967 model. It’s a very exclusive edition, thanks to its Brittany Blue finish with the option of painted Over-the-Top racing stripes with unique GT500 logo (also available in Absolute Black) at additional cost. A color called Code Orange, found on the new generation Ford F-150 Raptor or Ford GT is also available. The engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Rumor has it this could be the end of the GT500 nameplate, especially after the departure of the Mustang Shelby GT350 in 2021, which also had a variant of this caliber.
Toyota GR Supra
Price from: $44,695 / Engine: 3.0 L Turbocharged Inline 6 / Power: 382 hp @ 6,500 rpm / Torque: 368 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds / Top Speed: 160 mph
If you’re looking for a more radical styling car that also gives you versatility, you should consider the 202 Toyota Supra. It offers exciting driving sensations with a complete package of comfort and technology.
Turbo response is immediate, while steering is precise, and the eight-speed automatic transmission is snappy. The GR Supra’s exclusive cat-back exhaust that helps unleash the potential of each engine and gives them a unique and magnificent sound.
Overall, the car fulfills its mission on a track day and as a daily driver, making it a compelling sports car and practical for everyday use.
Audi RS 5
Price from: $76,900 / Engine: 2.9 L Twin Turbocharged V6 / Power: 444 hp @ 6,700 rpm / Torque: 443 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds / Top Speed: 174 mph
Not only is it brutally fast with excellent response thanks to its eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, but it also has a surprising grip. It is a car that gives you tremendous confidence and makes you believe you are the best driver in the world when, in reality, the computer is correcting everything you do.
If you’re looking for a more radical sedan, then check out the new M3 and the Giulia QV—because, although the RS5 handles incredibly, those two are more hardcore. But for the most balanced experience in a sports sedan, Audi has the best car with the RS5 Sportback.
Chevrolet Camaro 1SS
Price from: $38,895 / Engine: 6.2 L Naturally Aspirated V8 / Power: 455 hp @ 6,000 rpm / Torque: 455 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds / Top Speed: 165 mph
The 2022 Chevrolet Camaro 1SS coupe is a car that offers the pure joy of driving. So, despite its compromised outward visibility and cramped rear seats, the lithe handling, satisfying Tremec six-speed manual transmission, and remarkably smooth ride maintain the enthusiast’s spirit.
The Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger are better as daily drivers, but Chevy’s muscle car offers the best track experience of the three thanks to the optional 1LE package. Regarding performance for the price, you won’t find a better value than the Camaro coupe.
The Camaro isn’t a great daily driver, but its driving manners can surprise even the most dedicated purists.
Best New 4-Door Performance Sedans
The best performance in a practical, usable package
Kia Stinger GT-2
Price from: $51,490 / Engine: 3.3 L Twin Turbocharged V6 / Power: 368 hp @ 6,000 rpm / Torque: 376 lb-ft @ 1,300 rpm / 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds / Top Speed: 167 mph
The 2022 Stinger GT-2 is an affordable, sporty 4-door sedan that can compete with a premium model thanks to its excellent performance but without breaking the bank. It may not have the refinement of its European peers, but for the price, it’s hard to beat.
The Stinger’s V6 powerplant remains a fantastic option in the segment with excellent responsiveness and thrust, partly thanks to the eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers quick, smooth shifts through its fairly responsive paddle shifters. The only slight downside is the notorious turbo lag. Still, a rich and rumbly sound piped through its valved exhaust system rounds up the experience.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce
Price from: $50,890 / Engine: 2.0 L Turbocharged Inline 4 / Power: 280 hp @ 5,200 rpm / Torque: 306 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm / 0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds / Top Speed: 149 mph
The Giulia Veloce 2022 is a car that the brand’s enthusiasts have demanded for decades. The result is a four-door sports saloon with perhaps the best mass distributions and steering in its segment. The new Giulia materializes the sporty essence of the brand, which aims to satisfy drivers that seek sophistication and sobriety without compromising performance.
Although it is not a high-performance car, it delivers excellent dynamics. In addition, the optional all-wheel-drive provides additional safety and control, losing no driving sensations you would expect from an Alfa Romeo. One of its best highlights is the eight-speed automatic transmission with sequential manual control.
See Also: The 2022 Alfa Romeo Line-Up
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
Price from: $58,995 / Engine: 3.6 L Twin Turbocharged V6 / Power: 472 hp @ 5,750 rpm / Torque: 445 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.9 seconds / Top Speed: 189 mph
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing arrives in a compact format and complemented by an exciting powertrain. Its main competitors are the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S and the Audi RS3 saloon, both in dimensions and, to some extent, in power.
The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox that sends the power to the rear wheels. Optionally, you can get a 10-speed automatic.
As with its big brother, the CT5-V Blackwing, the changes for this model from the standard “V” are in the front with larger air intakes, blacked-out grille, carbon fiber accents, exclusive 18″ wheels, spoiler, and diffuser.
Audi RS3 Saloon
Price from: $59,995 / Engine: 2.5 L Turbocharged Inline 4 / Power: 401 hp @ 6,500 rpm / Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds / Top Speed: 155 mph
The 2022 Audi RS3 is a car that follows the hot hatch recipe perfectly but adapts to a more practical trunk format. It is an addictive sports saloon with handling that borders on excellence at high speeds but will suit your daily driving needs.
Of course, one of the most distinct aspects is its TFSI straight-five engine, which gives the car a unique, epic sound. Furthermore, the optional adaptive suspension features a specific comfort setting for RS Performance Mode, designed for bumpy race tracks. In addition, the standard RS sports suspension has newly developed dampers and a valve system particular to the RS3.
Porsche Taycan
Price from: $84,050 / Engine: Single Rear Motor / Power: 402 hp @ N/A rpm / Torque: 254 lb-ft @ N/A rpm / 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds / Top Speed: 161 mph
For 2022, Porsche presents this Taycan as a model that has gained autonomy in daily use. Drivers will benefit from an improved range in everyday use thanks to numerous technological improvements.
These mainly affect the Normal and Range modes, in which the front electric motor—available on all-wheel-drive versions—is almost completely decoupled when there is no high demand for acceleration. At the same time, when the car coasts or stops, none of the axes receives energy, thus avoiding energy losses due to friction.
If you’re looking for a more powerful Taycan, you’ll have to upgrade to the Taycan Turbo or Turbo S.
Best New High-End Performance Cars
Cars that bring performance, exotic designs, and exclusivity
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS
Price from: $143,050 / Engine: Dual Electric Motors / Power: 493 hp @ 8,400 rpm / Torque: 331 lb-ft @ 6,250 rpm / 0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds / Top Speed: 196 mph
The Cayman is the entry-level model in Porsche’s current product lineup. It sits below the 911, from which it adopts some of its technologies and powertrain and takes inspiration from its iconic design.
For 2022, Porsche expanded the Cayman line further with the GT4 RS track-oriented model. It borrows the 4.0-liter flat-six from the 911 GT3, tuned to put out 493 hp sent to the rear axle, and adds suspension revisions and aerodynamics to improve lap times.
This Cayman is available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or the efficient seven-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic transmission.
2022 Chevrolet Corvette
Price from: $62,295 / Engine: 6.2 L Naturally Aspirated V8 / Power: 490 hp @ 6,450 rpm / Torque: 470 lb-ft @ 5,150 rpm / 0-60 mph: 2.8 seconds / Top Speed: 184 mph
The Chevrolet Corvette C8 is a true, pure mid-engine sports car with versatility for enthusiasts, thanks to a wide range of versions and its convertible variant.
The most noticeable changes compared to the standard version are the roof and the cover, where you usually see the engine through the glass. This area now accommodates the top and the mechanism that raises and lowers the roof.
The Z51 package includes accessories such as a spoiler and tuning for better handling. In addition, this model’s suspension and springs have a specific configuration so that the car transmits the same sensations as the traditional model.
Maserati MC20 Cielo
Price from: $210,000 / Engine: 3.0 L Twin Turbocharged V6 / Power: 630 hp @ 7,500 rpm / Torque: 538 lb-ft @ 3,000 – 5,500 rpm / 0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds / Top Speed: 202 mph
Maserati recently launched the convertible variant of their first super sports car (MC20) called “Cielo,” Italian for “sky.” The roof drive mechanism completes the folding or unfolding operation in 12 seconds, adding 143 to the car’s weight.
The heart of the Maserati MC20 Cielo is the same as the standard MC20, a twin-turbo called “Nettuno” (Neptune). This unique engine has two combustion chambers to ensure better efficiency, consumption, and power delivery through a patented Maserati system, which resulted in the most powerful V6 in a production car.
The transmission is an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic that sends the power to the rear axle.
Aston Martin V12 Vantage
Price from: $300,000 / Engine: 5.2 L Twin Turbocharged V12 / Power: 690 hp @ 6,500 rpm / Torque: 555 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds / Top Speed: 200 mph
Limited to only 333 units, this wild final edition of the Vantage sends the model off in style with an improved set-up and a V12 5.2 twin turbo.
The V12 Vantage boasts a more striking and muscular aesthetic, a more aggressive diffuser, a double central exhaust outlet, and a rear spoiler. The use of lightweight materials, together with the rest of the new aerodynamic parts, produces a downforce of 450 pounds and increases the power-to-weight ratio by 20% compared to the V8 Vantage, not to mention the engine’s extra 190 hp and 50 lb-ft of torque.
A ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox was improved and explicitly recalibrated for this model.
Nissan GT-R
Price from: $115,000 / Engine: 3.8 L Twin Turbocharged V6 / Power: 600 hp @ 6,800 rpm / Torque: 481 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.0 seconds / Top Speed: 196 mph
In 2022 Nissan introduced a facelift that focuses on minimal modifications to the bumpers and two new colors that ‘dress’ Godzilla’s beautiful bodywork. In addition, the light restyling brings two special editions of this already iconic model since 2008. They are called GT-R Premium Edition T-spec and GT-R Track Edition Engineered by Nismo T-spec, both limited to 100 units.
Both new models share components such as carbon-ceramic brakes, a rear spoiler made of carbon fiber to lighten the weight, and a unique cover for the explosive V6 twin-turbo, the heart of this supercar that continues to fascinate us without forgetting its 6-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shifting mode.
Acura NSX Type S
Price from: $169,500 / Engine: 3.5 L Twin Turbocharged V6 Hybrid / Power: 608 hp @ 6,500 rpm / Torque: 491 lb-ft @ 2,300 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.2 seconds / Top Speed: 191 mph
In 2022, the Acura NSX received the Type-S treatment, giving us the most extreme variant in the history of this sports car. The differences concerning the last update from three years ago are evident and go beyond performance.
Carbon fiber is present in the front end, splitter, running boards, roof, and rear spoiler. While the aggressive rear diffuser is a clear heritage from its racing sibling, the NSX GT3. It also features improved thrust thanks to three electric motors.
This model also incorporates higher-pressure turbos, injectors, intercoolers, and a better battery to benefit electric assistance. The transmission also improves programming, increasing the shifting speed by 50%.
Lotus Evora GT
Price from: $133,000 / Engine: 3.5 L Supercharged V6 / Power: 416 hp @ 6,500 rpm / Torque: 317 lb-ft @ 2,300 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds / Top Speed: 188 mph
While competitors like Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman are fantastic to drive and more feature-rich, the Evora GT is more rewarding for enthusiasts seeking a rawer experience. With its supercharged V6 and superb chassis, the action behind the wheels is visceral.
Driving the 2022 Lotus Evora GT is a medieval experience compared to other modern mid-engined sports cars, making the Evora GT so unique. This machine is made to excite the senses rather than make perfect sense.
Its mid-mounted supercharged smooth and torquey Toyota-sourced engine sends the power to the rear wheels through a conventional Aisin torque-converter six-speed or a six-speed manual.
Best New Everyday Car
These cars combine versatility for everyday use without sacrificing performance and style.
Audi RS 7 Sportback
Price from: $119,595 / Engine: 4.0 L Twin Turbocharged V6 / Power: 600 hp @ 6,250 rpm / Torque: 590 lb-ft @ 2,050 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds / Top Speed: 189 mph
There aren’t many four-door sports with drivability for everyday use. Fortunately, there’s the Audi RS7 Sportback, which promises an exciting experience for five passengers. Audi combines the elegant design lines, the brute force of the V8 twin-turbo mild hybrid engine, and their quattro all-wheel drive system.
The new Audi RS 7 Sportback equips a dual-circuit braking system for front and rear axles, RS adaptive air suspension, and progressive steering for enhanced safety on all journeys.
On the outside, we find a widened body, characteristic RS side skirts, large air intakes, progressive lighting technology, HD Matrix LED headlights, dynamic turn signals, and 22-inch alloy wheels.
BMW M340i Touring xDrive
Price from: $114,890/ Engine: 3.0 L Turbocharged Inline 6 / Power: 369 hp @ 6,500 rpm / Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm / 0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds / Top Speed: 155 mph
The BMW M340i xDrive Touring is the sportiest and fastest model of the BMW 3 Series but in a station wagon body. It is absurdly quick but practical for daily use and trips with the whole family.
For 2022, the car equips a turbocharged six-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with Launch Control and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The M340i xDrive is an excellent option if you want a model with better performance and driving sensations. It is hard to beat if you want a car to start in the sporty family wagon segment with decent power, top-notch technologies, and quality materials.
Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4Matic
Price from: $64,368 / Engine: 2.0 L Turbocharged Inline 4 / Power: 421 hp @ 5,250 rpm / Torque: 368 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm / 0-60 mph: 4.0 seconds / Top Speed: 168 mph
The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4Matic looks like a high-end sports car with its huge air intakes, grille finish, four exhaust outlets, and 19-inch wheels.
The thrust of the car’s engine is noticeable from the first touch of the accelerator, regardless of what driving mode you are in. The engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to all four wheels thanks to Mercedes’ sophisticated 4Matic system.
The 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4Matic is a sporty saloon with a beautiful exterior and remarkable mechanics for those looking for a sports car performance, but with usable rear seats and Mercedes sophistication.
See Also: The 2022 Mercedes-AMG Line-Up
Audi RS e-tron
Price from: $143,400 / Engine: Two AC Synchronous Electric Motors, Front and Rear / Power: 590 hp @ N/A rpm / Torque: 612 lb-ft @ N/A rpm / 0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds / Top Speed: 159 mph
Besides trading the usual noise for silence, perhaps the best highlight of the RS e-tron GT is its brutal acceleration. But apart from going explosively in a straight line like a muscle car, this Audi offers a superior precision and stability compared to other RS models.
Thanks to the weight distribution, low center of gravity, four-wheel drive, and its many tech advances, the RS e-tron offers superb handling even in highly tight curves.
The Audi RS e-tron also excels in autonomy which is on par with the average of combustion cars: 292 miles. The recharge time is five minutes to recover a range of 60 miles.
Tesla Model S Plaid
Price from: $106,440 / Engine: Three Electric Motors / Power: 1,020 hp @ N/A rpm / Torque: 1,050 lb-ft @ N/A rpm / 0-60 mph: 2.1 seconds / Top Speed: 200 mph
The Tesla Model S Plaid is the wildest and more powerful version of Tesla’s world-famous sedan, although aesthetically is not that different. The chrome details of the previous edition were changed to black, while a trunk spoiler was added to the rear, and the front end was made much more elegant.
The new weapons that allow it to be the fastest electric sedan on the planet are a set of three electric motors and all-wheel drive with torque vectoring so that this car can develop no less than 1,020 horsepower. As a result, the Model S Plaid covers the quarter mile in just 9.23 seconds.
Audi RS6 Avant
Price from: $117,595 / Engine: 4.0L Twin Turbocharged V8 – 48 Volt Hybrid System / Power: 591 hp @ 6,250 rpm / Torque: 590 lb-ft @ 2,050 rpm / 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds / Top Speed: 190 mph
The Audi RS 6 Avant is a high-performance station wagon that American customers had long fervently requested. It combines an aggressive look with a powerful engine and a mild-hybrid system.
Most of this vehicle’s components are specific, except for the roof, tailgate, and front doors. In addition, its body is 40 millimeters wider than the conventional model because of its marked wheel arches.
The transmission is an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic with a torque converter and Launch Control. It has Quattro all-wheel drive, which works in 60:40 mode in normal conditions and sends 85% of the torque to the rear axle if necessary. The Dynamic optional package includes a sport rear differential.
