Best New Sports & Performance Cars Under $75,000

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The 2025 Acura Integra Type S is not just a sportier trim level; it's a full-fledged performance machine designed to thrill driving enthusiasts. Building upon the already engaging Integra platform, the Type S dials everything up to eleven with a high-output engine, track-tuned chassis, and aggressive styling. It's a car that proudly wears the Type S badge, signifying Acura's commitment to delivering exhilarating performance.  

At the heart of the Integra Type S lies a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that unleashes a potent 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to fully engage with the car and extract its maximum performance potential. The Type S also benefits from a limited-slip differential, which helps put the power down effectively and enhances cornering grip. Acura has further enhanced the driving dynamics with a sport-tuned suspension, featuring adaptive dampers and a wider track for improved stability and responsiveness.

The Integra Type S doesn't just perform; it looks the part too. Acura has given it a more aggressive appearance with a unique front fascia, a larger rear spoiler, a center-exit triple exhaust system, and wider fenders to accommodate the wider track and larger wheels. I

How It Made The List

The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is not just a car, it's a statement. A statement that Cadillac is back in the performance game, and they're not playing around. This compact sport sedan is a masterpiece of engineering, a symphony of power and precision that will leave you breathless. Under the hood lies a twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 that pumps out a thrilling 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. That power is sent to the rear wheels through your choice of a slick-shifting six-speed manual or a lightning-fast 10-speed automatic.

"The CT4-V Blackwing is a riot to drive, with a screaming V6 that loves to be revved and a chassis that can handle it all." - Car and Driver perfectly captures the essence of this beast. The adaptive suspension, electronic limited-slip differential, and performance-tuned steering work together to deliver an experience that's both exhilarating and confidence-inspiring. Massive Brembo brakes provide stopping power to match the car's ferocious acceleration, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires cling to the pavement like glue. This is a car that begs to be pushed to its limits, and it rewards you with a level of feedback and engagement that's rare in today's world of numb driving experiences.

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The 2025 Honda Civic Type R continues to reign as one of the most engaging and rewarding hot hatchbacks on the market. Its aggressive styling, with a large rear wing, flared fenders, and triple-outlet exhaust, hints at the performance that lies within. Under the hood, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers an impressive 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful Civic ever. This power is sent exclusively to the front wheels through a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, providing a visceral and connected driving experience.  

But the Type R's appeal goes beyond raw power. Its expertly tuned chassis, adaptive dampers, and precise steering make it a true corner-carving machine. The Type R tackles corners with incredible grip and composure, inspiring confidence and encouraging drivers to push its limits. Despite its performance focus, the Type R remains a practical and usable daily driver. Its spacious hatchback design offers ample cargo space, while comfortable sport seats and a well-equipped interior ensure a pleasant driving experience even on longer journeys.

For 2025, the Civic Type R receives subtle refinements to further enhance its appeal.

How It Made The List

The 2025 BMW Z4 continues to be a compelling choice for those seeking a refined and engaging roadster experience. Its classic long-hood, short-deck proportions are accentuated by a sleek silhouette and a power-folding soft top that disappears at the touch of a button, transforming the Z4 from a stylish coupe to an open-air roadster in seconds. Available with a choice of two potent engines, the Z4 caters to a variety of driving preferences. The sDrive30i model features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower, while the M40i boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six generating a more muscular 382 horsepower.  

For 2025, the Z4 receives a welcome update: a six-speed manual transmission option for the M40i model. This addition caters to driving enthusiasts who crave a more involved and connected driving experience. The manual transmission is paired with a unique M Sport differential, further enhancing the Z4's dynamic capabilities. Whether equipped with the smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic or the engaging manual, the Z4 delivers a balanced and responsive driving experience. Its sport-tuned suspension and precise steering provide agile handling, making it a joy to carve through corners.  

How It Made The List

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is an American icon that has captivated enthusiasts for generations, and the current eighth-generation model (C8) continues that legacy with a bold mid-engine design and exhilarating performance. This revolutionary shift in design, placing the engine behind the driver, unlocks a new level of handling and agility, making the Corvette Stingray a true world-class sports car.

At the heart of the Corvette Stingray lies a potent 6.2-liter LT2 V8 engine, producing 490 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated powerhouse, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, delivers lightning-quick acceleration and a thrilling soundtrack. The Corvette Stingray can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars in its class.

Beyond its performance credentials, the Corvette Stingray offers a surprisingly comfortable and refined driving experience. The magnetic ride control suspension adapts to varying road conditions, providing a smooth ride even on rough pavement.

How It Made The List

The 2025 Nissan Z continues to inject excitement into the sports car scene, offering a compelling blend of performance, style, and value. Building on the success of its revival, the Z retains its classic formula: a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout, a potent twin-turbocharged V6 engine, and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. For 2025, the Z lineup is streamlined, offering three distinct trims: Sport, Performance, and the high-performance Nismo.  

The Z Sport serves as the entry point to the Z experience, offering a well-rounded package with a 400-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine, a six-speed manual transmission, and 18-inch wheels. Stepping up to the Z Performance adds features like a limited-slip differential, upgraded brakes, 19-inch wheels, and a Bose audio system, enhancing both performance and comfort.

At the top of the Z hierarchy sits the Z Nismo, a track-focused variant that takes performance to the next level. The Nismo boasts a retuned version of the V6 engine, delivering 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. It's exclusively paired with the nine-speed automatic transmission and has revised suspension.

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The 2025 Ford Mustang gallops into the new model year with a familiar recipe for success: potent engines, aggressive styling, and a focus on driving enjoyment. This iconic American muscle car, now in its seventh generation, offers a range of trims to satisfy both performance enthusiasts and those seeking a more refined grand touring experience. At the heart of the Mustang lineup lies a choice of two engines: a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, delivering 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, or a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8, pumping out a thrilling 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

The Mustang's trim levels cater to a variety of tastes and budgets. The base EcoBoost model provides a compelling entry point, offering a balance of performance and affordability. Stepping up to the EcoBoost Premium adds features like heated and cooled leather seats, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and larger 19-inch wheels. For those seeking V8 power, the Mustang GT delivers exhilarating performance and a signature muscle car soundtrack.

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The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N isn't just another electric car; it's a game-changer that redefines what an electric performance vehicle can be. It takes the already impressive IONIQ 5 and injects it with a potent dose of N magic, resulting in a thrilling driving experience that rivals, and even surpasses, many established performance cars. With over 600 horsepower on tap, a sub-4-second 0-60 mph time, and a chassis tuned for exhilarating handling, the IONIQ 5 N delivers electrifying performance that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

But it's not just about raw speed. The IONIQ 5 N is packed with innovative technology designed to enhance the driving experience. Features like N Grin Boost provide an extra surge of power for overtaking or simply enjoying a burst of acceleration, while N Drift Optimizer and N Torque Distribution allow drivers to explore the car's playful side with confidence. As Car and Driver puts it, "The IONIQ 5 N is a riot to drive. It delivers exhilarating acceleration, precise handling, and a level of control that's almost uncanny."

MotorTrend praises the IONIQ 5 N for its "addictive" N Grin Boost feature, while Edmunds calls it a "remarkable achievement" and a "benchmark for what electric SUVs can be."

How It Made The List

The Lexus RC F is a luxury coupe that aims to deliver a balance of performance and refinement. Under the hood lies a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, a rarity in today's turbocharged world, producing a respectable 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. This power is routed to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowing the RC F to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.2 seconds. While not as explosive as some of its German rivals, the RC F offers a linear power delivery and a satisfying engine note that's sure to please enthusiasts.  

The RC F's handling is tuned for a blend of comfort and agility. It's not the sharpest tool in the shed when it comes to carving corners, but it offers a composed and confident driving experience. The adaptive variable suspension adjusts to different driving conditions, providing a comfortable ride in everyday driving and firmer handling when pushed harder. The RC F's styling is aggressive, with a large spindle grille, sharp lines, and a prominent rear spoiler. Inside, the cabin features a mix of luxury and sportiness, with comfortable seats, high-quality materials, and a driver-focused layout.  

How It Made The List

The 2025 Toyota GR Supra continues to be a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts, offering a potent blend of performance, agility, and style. This rear-wheel-drive sports coupe, now in its fifth generation, builds upon its reputation for delivering an exhilarating driving experience with further refinements and enhancements. Under the hood, the GR Supra retains its BMW-sourced 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This potent powerplant delivers a smooth and linear power delivery, propelling the GR Supra from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 3.9 seconds with the available automatic transmission.  

One of the most significant updates for 2025 is the introduction of a new manual transmission option. This six-speed manual gearbox, developed specifically for the GR Supra, caters to purists who crave a more involved and engaging driving experience. It features a shortened final drive ratio for improved acceleration and a rev-matching function for smoother downshifts. Whether you choose the manual or the responsive eight-speed automatic, the GR Supra delivers a dynamic and rewarding driving experience.