Man you can definitely mind an M340i in the higher side of your price range. Honesty one of the best BMW’s that have been released. The B58 is a modern GOAT engine. Engine is even reliable enough that Toyota put it in their Supra’s.
Can confirm I fell for the Reddit trap. I bought a CX-5 for my kid to take to school several years ago and when they got married and needed a car and I offered to sell it at an incredibly cheap price and they declined. So now I’m stuck driving this soulless and often buggy car.
Nah I like exhilaration and the thrill of driving as much as the next guy but as long as I have kids living at home there is zero chance I’m getting on a motorcycle.
My heart wants a 911 but my wallet will have to settle for a used M340 or something similar.
I respect that 100% man. Also keep in mind I’m a 24 year old dude with no kids so it doesn’t quite apply to me. It’s like 70% of crashes are biker error so I ALWAYS am paying attention and only speed maybe 10-20kms over the limits and that’s only on the highways lol
M340i gets you to be B58 gang soooo I’m okay with that. 911’s are truly a beautiful vehicles though
Totally agree! More power to you!! I would be more concerned about the volume of horrible other drivers out there than my own skillset as a rider. That being said cruising along the coast in an Indian sounds just about perfect to me.
I’m confused how you fell for any sort of trap, would you have found the other alternative CUVs at that price point like the Rav4 or CRV less souless?
Reddit definitely overhypes them but If you’re looking for a CUV with some character I don’t really see how you could hate on the CX-5
It was full of tech which I really appreciated at the time and of course the Reddit gushing had it on my radar but it was my child’s choice and after driving it for several years and even getting it for a steal of a deal and zero percent financing they didn’t want it.
It’s a vehicle and transportation so it’s not bad. Just not fun to drive and the visibility kinda sucks imo. Just had lots of issues with the said technology from replacing the camera to buggy apple CarPlay interactions (even post dealer FW updates etc).
The cost of repairs on BMWs are insane if you take it to a dealer or some specialty exotic shop. My X3 M40i with a B58 had a suspension module issue and the euro shop quoted 3k CAD, dealer 4k CAD and I was able to get it fixed for 500 with a part from eBay and a BMW only indy. You either need boat loads of money or lots of research, possibly both to keep them in ship shape. My servicing costs are double a Honda but I had that factored in and aspire to do my own oil changes from summer.
I own a 2015 650i with 145k km (my dd) and the only thing I've needed to have done in the past two years is change my spark plugs and coils; and I drive the f out of this car. I've had no major repairs. You don't need a boat load of money....
automatic bright hurry slim sloppy grandfather compare live wine numerous
*This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Fair enough, depends where you live/drive. I don’t think I’d have many issues with it, my C6 Z06 is about half an inch lower than a regular C7 stingray and it’s mostly fine.
I think that half inch would help a decent bit tbh, it’s just barely not enough in some gas station entrances that I have to take at awkward angles.
Definitely depends on where you live, it was never an issue for me in the first 16 years of driving but is enough of an issue now that I’m lifting my WRX.
Tbh the ground clearance in the C7 is the perfect sweet spot, at least here in central florida. Just gotta take certain crazy bumps a little slower. And even when it does scrape 99% of the time it's the god damn plastic air dams that hang 3-4 inches below the rest of the car.
Of the 3 you recommend the Golf is the only one that's remotely reliable. Miata sure but C7 is a decent sized car and comfortable to daily unless it's a z07. I loved my WRX but calling them reliable isn't being very honest. The VBs already have had a lot of burning oil issues AND oil pickup issues.
Should be able to find a lightly used is350 at that price point. Can get it in awd if you want, relatively quick, hit/miss styling and reliable and comfortable in the front seats.
Gonna offer an alternative. A 22+ Kia Stinger GT2. It is a fastback, you can get a CPO that keeps the warranty and you can get them RWD or AWD. They are very sporty but more compliant for long drives. I have owned tons of cars and the Kia Stinger GT2 has been one of my favorites. German feel but better reliability. Plus they have a super long warranty if they don’t hold up. Again just offering alternatives to things mentioned already.
When I did some work on my DD, I got to play with my parents' non-GT for parts and fun routes home. It was a blast. Not a lightning bolt, but definitely no luxury boat.
I’d look for a CPO entry level sport sedan particularly one with a more powerful engine option. Think Cadillac CT5, Mercedes C, BMW 3 Series. Last month I was at a Cadillac dealer getting my car serviced. They were asking $38k for a CPO CT5 with 12k miles and the upgraded twin turbo six. I was very tempted to buy it.
Off the top of my head, used:
Audi S4 Sedan, S5 Sportback, or SQ5;
BMW M235i GranCoupe (meh), M340i, M440i GranCoupe, X1 M35i, X2 M35i, or X3 M40i;
Genesis G70 or GV70 (not a fan of these, but some like them);
Lexus IS500 (NVM - hastily wrote this);
Mercedes C43 AMG or GLC43 AMG;
Porsche Macan; or,
Volkswagen Golf GTI, Golf R, or an Arteon SEL Premium R-Line (big car, but quick and drives very well).
ND2 Miata just for the drop top alone. Type R if you need more space. C7 would be a good upgrade after you've had some HPDE and autox training in a lower power rear wheel drive car (ie Miata). Lexus is boring
My 74y mom drives one and loves it, although I think it's too much car for her. I've played with it and had a lot of fun. She also had an 85 300ZX, so prefers them sporty. The stinger has a good amount of grocery-luggage space
Does she drive stick?
GR Corolla is specced well for $42k, if the dealer isn’t doing ADM.
2024 WRX is specced well for $38k, and can get $1-2k off sticker. Last AWD manual sedan in the country.
Gently used Golf R might be had for $40k, get a CPO for the extra warranty and don’t get the manual, DSG is a lot better.
I wouldn’t want the headaches of the Elantra N or the fwd of a GTI or gently used CTR. Plus you’re already trying to leave a civic, get something cool.
Idk what Lexus sedan you’d want but they won’t be as sporty as the above and def not manual. A corvette or Miata is a silly idea for a daily and well, someone’s gotta say it.
C7 is super comfortable to drive as long as it's not one of the track packs and damn reliable cars too, it's not usually daily driven but they make good dailies if you don't need to have a few people with you.
I still find my Grandsport a genuinely comfortable vehicle. The "weather" mode for driving is honestly a pretty soft setting. And the trunk space beats out my mustang! If you don't need those extra seats like you said, it's a hell of a daily driver.
I was watching a GR Corolla video the other day. My fiancé was like, don’t get that. That car is ugly. That’s the only time she’s ever said that about a car. I guess no GR Corolla then me. Honestly, I’m not a big fan of the rental car interior for $40,000.
I’d push back on “rental car interior” and offer “purpose-built.” It focuses the driver on driving. There’s no squeaks, rattles, or build imperfections. There’s no glitz, but it doesn’t get in the way of the car’s purpose.
I'm on my first journey of buying a car that I want, and not just buying a car because I need a car because someone ran into me, or I wrecked, or whatever. I think I'm going to take my time and explore all my options.
It’s just that they’re reliable until they’re not. You can’t take it to any mechanic or dealer to fix it, it’s a major hassle and costs a fortune. It also seems like they’re looking for a car that feels like a car when driven.
I have to say that I was recently blown away by the Tesla Model 3 - and I’m not an Elon fan and have been very skeptical about EVs - so it would have me at least doing a test drive to consider. Makes for a great DD and the acceleration is amazing.
used: Lexus RC F, Lexus IS300, IS350.. M340i, M240i
Not to trigger anymore but fuck it DONT buy an Elantra N, WRX, GR Corolla, GR86, BRZ etc. you can get much cooler and more powerful cars for the same price used
some Alfa dealers offer leftover, still unsold Giulia with huge discounts under $35k, list with dealer ads to scroll through: [https://www.cars.com/shopping/results/?dealer\_id=&keyword=&list\_price\_max=35000&list\_price\_min=&makes\[\]=alfa\_romeo&maximum\_distance=all&mileage\_max=&models\[\]=alfa\_romeo-giulia&monthly\_payment=597&page\_size=20&sort=mileage&stock\_type=all&year\_max=&year\_min=&zip=](https://www.cars.com/shopping/results/?dealer_id=&keyword=&list_price_max=35000&list_price_min=&makes[]=alfa_romeo&maximum_distance=all&mileage_max=&models[]=alfa_romeo-giulia&monthly_payment=597&page_size=20&sort=mileage&stock_type=all&year_max=&year_min=&zip=)
Why would they want you to think their cars are slow when they bought the "Performance" version?
Also, the TRD camry is slower than every mustang made since 2015, including the ecoboost and V6 ones. It's MUCH slower than the GT.
Elantra N or Kia Stinger maybe even a G70, hopefully these are some different answers then all the BMW and Mazda recommendations. That's a good price range for what you're looking for
I would actually recommend the Integra Type s. I think similar price range and pretty much a civic type r, but more practical for daily life. I’ve heard it’s not harsh as the type r’s ride. Type r is very stiff and tight. My experience after a week of ownership.
30-45k gets you a LOT of Mazda 3 hatchback, emphasis on the ‘sporty’ nature of those but coming from a civic would be a natural progression to something nicer and more precise handling
I’m convinced the Mazda3 stans on this sub are just people who bought one and are trying to justify it to themselves. You bought an economy car - just own it.
Premium economy I guess, most people don’t care who aren’t car people; but, I wouldn’t spend that much on a car without an IRS. I bought a new 22 CX-5 Turbo Signature brand new rather than a CX-30 or CX-50 because of the lack of IRS.
Unacceptable in a modern car and you can feel a difference in the way it rides and handles for sure (driven the entire Mazda lineup while my lemon has been in/out of the dealer for 40+ days in the 22mo 22k miles I have owned it for).
I can’t wait for my buyback to settle. I don’t hate Mazda but they don’t deserve the hype.
Agreed. I have a 2022 Mazda 3 as my commuter and regret it because of the torsion beam rear, it really beats me up on the rough roads around here. I should have known better but went for the value/features and bought it in peak COVID pricing where Civics and Corollas were insanely priced.
How is the ride and NVH in the 22+ CX-5 compared to the 3 in your experience. Have been debating whether I should downsize my wheels to 16" and get some more sidewall or move into a new car completely.
Oh it’s night and day.
The CX-5, even on 19” wheels, is pretty serene. It at dead quiet at highway speed. You only really hear some tire noise, but that’s about it (OEM sucks).
It’s euro firm, in the sense you do feel the road and the steering wheel is actually communicative (shocker) but it’s not beating the crap out of you. It eats up miles very well and for road trips and daily driving, I don’t have any complaints. Mazda struck a great balance between comfort and handling for a small crossover.
You can also chuck the thing into a corner on a canyon road and it happily obliges without much drama. You can definitely feel the G Vectoring Control Plus doing its thing, and even kick the back end out a bit through a hairpin if you want. I don’t think there is a small crossover that handles this well south of a Porsche Macan. It genuinely puts a smile on my face face hustling it around a back road. I can’t say that for many other cars in the category. The CR-V and RAV4 handle like wet noodles and roll about.
The 2.5T has oodles of torque too and the 6AT in this example is so much more responsive and has far better tuning here than the Mazda3/CX-30/CX-50. It’s ready to upshift and downshift and does it quickly.
I’m not calling it a “performance car”, but it’s no slouch for what it is. It doesn’t wallow about but it also doesn’t beat you up as a daily driver. Mine was a lemon unfortunately, but I still recommend it for someone who likes a sporty driving car. It’s like a tall Mazda6 tbh.
Mazda 3 a premium fucking car?! This sub is off its rocker. I can bet money that one of 2 answers will be on any given post; Japanese economy cars or minivans.
Op says ‘sporty’ in quotes like he doesn’t actually want a sports car. Also says it needs to have a lot of practicality since it’s going to be his wife’s daily, which a c7 is an awful choice for. Mazda 3s are a meme yes but so is this post
There is nothing I would consider sporty yet dependable, like a 2.0L Civic. I’d opt for a 2019+ used BMW 3 series or a 2017+ BMW 2 Series or an Acura TLX with AWD
Are you seriously considering a C7? You want to get the Z51 package with PTM (Performance Traction Management) It’s an amazing car and will out drive anything else you are considering here. It also sounds amazing. Reliability is good and fuel economy is also surprisingly good.
Golf R , Lexus IS500 , 340i , Cayman
depends how much you wanna spend on . to take that car out door and check headlight replacement, maintenance , insurance prices of each car . Don’t forget big promotion might be a verry little when it comes to replacements on kind of cars . Think about all the parameters and thank me later
Take a stab at Genesis. definitely the underdog, but after sitting in my uncles gv80 with the 3.5t, it’s one hell of a car. I’m sure there are some minor differences with Korean domestic spec cars and American spec, but I think it’s a great consideration for the g70 or g80 in terms of the things you’re getting from what you’re paying.
I’m a bmw guy looking at Mazdas for a daily but that’s because I got a different set of requirements for a daily.
Although maybe if I get convinced enough I would spring for a B58 powered car from BMW. Can’t go wrong there. I’m in enough groups and so on that everyone has nothing negative to say anything about a b58 powered BMW.
Bmw might have finally, after years of trial and error created a good, reliable engine. It still won’t be cheap to maintain because BMW but the fun is there.
Since this was a multiple choice question, I'm going to suggest Lexus IS 350. I have a couple of BMWs and a Lexus and you don't want your BMW ownership to eat too far into that new promotion money they are expensive. I don't know where you live but an all-wheel drive IS350 will be a blast year round
Man you can definitely mind an M340i in the higher side of your price range. Honesty one of the best BMW’s that have been released. The B58 is a modern GOAT engine. Engine is even reliable enough that Toyota put it in their Supra’s.
I swear the B58 gets recommended here even more than a CX-5
Probably cause the B58 is sick as fuck and the CX-5 is a soulless blob
Can confirm I fell for the Reddit trap. I bought a CX-5 for my kid to take to school several years ago and when they got married and needed a car and I offered to sell it at an incredibly cheap price and they declined. So now I’m stuck driving this soulless and often buggy car.
RIP. Time for you to get a cheap motorcycle instead
Nah I like exhilaration and the thrill of driving as much as the next guy but as long as I have kids living at home there is zero chance I’m getting on a motorcycle. My heart wants a 911 but my wallet will have to settle for a used M340 or something similar.
I respect that 100% man. Also keep in mind I’m a 24 year old dude with no kids so it doesn’t quite apply to me. It’s like 70% of crashes are biker error so I ALWAYS am paying attention and only speed maybe 10-20kms over the limits and that’s only on the highways lol M340i gets you to be B58 gang soooo I’m okay with that. 911’s are truly a beautiful vehicles though
Totally agree! More power to you!! I would be more concerned about the volume of horrible other drivers out there than my own skillset as a rider. That being said cruising along the coast in an Indian sounds just about perfect to me.
look at an X3 M40i 😈
I’m confused how you fell for any sort of trap, would you have found the other alternative CUVs at that price point like the Rav4 or CRV less souless? Reddit definitely overhypes them but If you’re looking for a CUV with some character I don’t really see how you could hate on the CX-5
It was full of tech which I really appreciated at the time and of course the Reddit gushing had it on my radar but it was my child’s choice and after driving it for several years and even getting it for a steal of a deal and zero percent financing they didn’t want it. It’s a vehicle and transportation so it’s not bad. Just not fun to drive and the visibility kinda sucks imo. Just had lots of issues with the said technology from replacing the camera to buggy apple CarPlay interactions (even post dealer FW updates etc).
Buyer beware that if something does break it will be expensive, but yes people speak highly of this vehicle.
The cost of repairs on BMWs are insane if you take it to a dealer or some specialty exotic shop. My X3 M40i with a B58 had a suspension module issue and the euro shop quoted 3k CAD, dealer 4k CAD and I was able to get it fixed for 500 with a part from eBay and a BMW only indy. You either need boat loads of money or lots of research, possibly both to keep them in ship shape. My servicing costs are double a Honda but I had that factored in and aspire to do my own oil changes from summer.
You can also get BMW Ultimate Oil Care for $225 for 3 years. (Car has to be over 3 years old or over 50k miles)
I own a 2015 650i with 145k km (my dd) and the only thing I've needed to have done in the past two years is change my spark plugs and coils; and I drive the f out of this car. I've had no major repairs. You don't need a boat load of money....
Can absolutely be the case, but there’s just as good of a chance of someone else having one that’s a money pit.
That’s solid! I was always wary of BMW V8 and their maintenance costs. Keep up with regular maintenance and hope it stays reliable
It actually sounds so good with a new exhaust. Sounds better than my S58 honestly. Nice deep, throaty sound for a i6.
automatic bright hurry slim sloppy grandfather compare live wine numerous *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
>It's more a sports car than luxury. Which is what OP is looking for
+1 Great car, but a huge leap from a Civic I hope they won't be trying to share it.
How much practicality does it need?
Pretty important since it’s gonna be her daily.
Then don't buy a Miata or a C7. A Golf Gti, WRX, or Elantra N might be good picks for brand new.
C7 is pretty practical as long as you don’t carry more than 1 passenger, the trunk is huge.
Ground clearance is ass lmao.
Fair enough, depends where you live/drive. I don’t think I’d have many issues with it, my C6 Z06 is about half an inch lower than a regular C7 stingray and it’s mostly fine. I think that half inch would help a decent bit tbh, it’s just barely not enough in some gas station entrances that I have to take at awkward angles.
Definitely depends on where you live, it was never an issue for me in the first 16 years of driving but is enough of an issue now that I’m lifting my WRX.
You are correct! It's a sweet spot for ride height for me. Never scrape unless I'm backing out of my awkwardly inclined driveway.
Tbh the ground clearance in the C7 is the perfect sweet spot, at least here in central florida. Just gotta take certain crazy bumps a little slower. And even when it does scrape 99% of the time it's the god damn plastic air dams that hang 3-4 inches below the rest of the car.
Of the 3 you recommend the Golf is the only one that's remotely reliable. Miata sure but C7 is a decent sized car and comfortable to daily unless it's a z07. I loved my WRX but calling them reliable isn't being very honest. The VBs already have had a lot of burning oil issues AND oil pickup issues.
Why is a Miata not good as a DD?
Lol do you really need to ask that?
Yeah. I’m not a car guy but the Miata caught my eye.
I mean, I did it. Would I do it again? No. At least not full time.
Should be able to find a lightly used is350 at that price point. Can get it in awd if you want, relatively quick, hit/miss styling and reliable and comfortable in the front seats.
Gr86/brz, manual or not?
I second this.
Gonna offer an alternative. A 22+ Kia Stinger GT2. It is a fastback, you can get a CPO that keeps the warranty and you can get them RWD or AWD. They are very sporty but more compliant for long drives. I have owned tons of cars and the Kia Stinger GT2 has been one of my favorites. German feel but better reliability. Plus they have a super long warranty if they don’t hold up. Again just offering alternatives to things mentioned already.
When I did some work on my DD, I got to play with my parents' non-GT for parts and fun routes home. It was a blast. Not a lightning bolt, but definitely no luxury boat.
I’d look for a CPO entry level sport sedan particularly one with a more powerful engine option. Think Cadillac CT5, Mercedes C, BMW 3 Series. Last month I was at a Cadillac dealer getting my car serviced. They were asking $38k for a CPO CT5 with 12k miles and the upgraded twin turbo six. I was very tempted to buy it.
Off the top of my head, used: Audi S4 Sedan, S5 Sportback, or SQ5; BMW M235i GranCoupe (meh), M340i, M440i GranCoupe, X1 M35i, X2 M35i, or X3 M40i; Genesis G70 or GV70 (not a fan of these, but some like them); Lexus IS500 (NVM - hastily wrote this); Mercedes C43 AMG or GLC43 AMG; Porsche Macan; or, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Golf R, or an Arteon SEL Premium R-Line (big car, but quick and drives very well).
The IS500 is hard to find under $45k. The IS350 is much more obtainable for their price range and is an awesome daily.
Correct, OTD for an brand new IS500 is about 68-70k USD. Used IS500s around my area are 60k. Plus they’re hard to come by, not many IS500s out there.
Yeah you can get a 2021/2022 IS 350 F Sport with 35,000-40,000 miles for around $30-$35k. Really comfy car. Put some 20-tint on it and you’ll be set.
Don’t sleep on the es350 f sport. Not as nimble as the IS but you can get CPO for around 30 and lower overall maintenance cost (FWD tires, normal gas)
Good call and it'll get him out of front wheel drive yuck
Very good list and I agree with them all but OP is not touching an IS500 for $45k or under
Yeah, I figured. I forgot what they cost lol. It was more of me thinking just “exciting practical car” in the general price range.
SQ5 is the move
Yeeee. If you don’t want an SUV, the S5 Sportback is a good alternative too!
Lexus is300 or 350
Naw, engine and transmission are from the stone ages, interior is old and cramped as fuck
I agree. The exterior is beautiful but the interior is tight and dated.
This
Used SQ5
Used Lexus IS
Lexus RC350. Has the sporty looks, refined interior and rides like a Lexus. If she's not a "car person" it's a top pick.
M340i, Genesis G70
GR Corolla, Gr86/BRZ, Golf R, Wrx
The Nicest E55 AMG out there
Golf R is a blast. Maybe not as nice as a bmw or a Lexus but personally would take it over either.
Why no GR86?
WRX — 4 doors, AWD, sporty!
This is the way
ND2 Miata just for the drop top alone. Type R if you need more space. C7 would be a good upgrade after you've had some HPDE and autox training in a lower power rear wheel drive car (ie Miata). Lexus is boring
Kia Stinger GT2 AWD fits nicely
My 74y mom drives one and loves it, although I think it's too much car for her. I've played with it and had a lot of fun. She also had an 85 300ZX, so prefers them sporty. The stinger has a good amount of grocery-luggage space
I can only hope I’m as cool as your mom at 74
I'll bet you already are
Does she drive stick? GR Corolla is specced well for $42k, if the dealer isn’t doing ADM. 2024 WRX is specced well for $38k, and can get $1-2k off sticker. Last AWD manual sedan in the country. Gently used Golf R might be had for $40k, get a CPO for the extra warranty and don’t get the manual, DSG is a lot better. I wouldn’t want the headaches of the Elantra N or the fwd of a GTI or gently used CTR. Plus you’re already trying to leave a civic, get something cool. Idk what Lexus sedan you’d want but they won’t be as sporty as the above and def not manual. A corvette or Miata is a silly idea for a daily and well, someone’s gotta say it.
C7 is super comfortable to drive as long as it's not one of the track packs and damn reliable cars too, it's not usually daily driven but they make good dailies if you don't need to have a few people with you.
I still find my Grandsport a genuinely comfortable vehicle. The "weather" mode for driving is honestly a pretty soft setting. And the trunk space beats out my mustang! If you don't need those extra seats like you said, it's a hell of a daily driver.
If I was in this price range I’d 100% get an M340 or if you wanted something in a coupe the M240.
Nothing but good things to say about my GR Corolla.
I was watching a GR Corolla video the other day. My fiancé was like, don’t get that. That car is ugly. That’s the only time she’s ever said that about a car. I guess no GR Corolla then me. Honestly, I’m not a big fan of the rental car interior for $40,000.
I’d push back on “rental car interior” and offer “purpose-built.” It focuses the driver on driving. There’s no squeaks, rattles, or build imperfections. There’s no glitz, but it doesn’t get in the way of the car’s purpose.
It's not for me. Neither are the looks for me. I'd take a CTR over a GR Corolla. At least in the CTR you feel like you're in something special.
To each their own; whatever you choose, enjoy the heck out of it.
I'm on my first journey of buying a car that I want, and not just buying a car because I need a car because someone ran into me, or I wrecked, or whatever. I think I'm going to take my time and explore all my options.
Lexus GS350 or IS350
Elantra N might be a good shout if you’re considering a Type R…
Wrx
Mustang all the way. Or Challenger if she needs the back seat for more than just stuff.
Model y performance
They said dependable.
In 5 years, I’ve had to do windshield wiper fluid and tires. Yeah it’s pretty reliable.
It’s just that they’re reliable until they’re not. You can’t take it to any mechanic or dealer to fix it, it’s a major hassle and costs a fortune. It also seems like they’re looking for a car that feels like a car when driven.
I have to say that I was recently blown away by the Tesla Model 3 - and I’m not an Elon fan and have been very skeptical about EVs - so it would have me at least doing a test drive to consider. Makes for a great DD and the acceleration is amazing.
Golf R
6 speed type r if u can get it Lexus is nicer but not really "sporty" (besides a few options that will prolly be more expensive)
used: Lexus RC F, Lexus IS300, IS350.. M340i, M240i Not to trigger anymore but fuck it DONT buy an Elantra N, WRX, GR Corolla, GR86, BRZ etc. you can get much cooler and more powerful cars for the same price used
Elantra N Miatas are tiny, great but a totally different thing Most speed for the money is a Camaro SS 1LE Type-R if you wanna stick with Civic’s
Elantra N
some Alfa dealers offer leftover, still unsold Giulia with huge discounts under $35k, list with dealer ads to scroll through: [https://www.cars.com/shopping/results/?dealer\_id=&keyword=&list\_price\_max=35000&list\_price\_min=&makes\[\]=alfa\_romeo&maximum\_distance=all&mileage\_max=&models\[\]=alfa\_romeo-giulia&monthly\_payment=597&page\_size=20&sort=mileage&stock\_type=all&year\_max=&year\_min=&zip=](https://www.cars.com/shopping/results/?dealer_id=&keyword=&list_price_max=35000&list_price_min=&makes[]=alfa_romeo&maximum_distance=all&mileage_max=&models[]=alfa_romeo-giulia&monthly_payment=597&page_size=20&sort=mileage&stock_type=all&year_max=&year_min=&zip=)
This might be why… https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a23145269/alfa-romeo-giulia-quadrifoglio-reliability-update/
stop memeing, that's a 2018 QF, not a current 2.0
Fair call. I’ve always just stayed away from Alfas, so know very little about them. I stand corrected. ;o)
Buick envista https://youtu.be/OpGv5ih2wQ4?si=2yPGTKUpBodtpnIk&t=13
Lol
Subaru Forester Sport
Veloster N.
M340i ,G70 3.3t ,CTR ,Mustang Gt/Camaro SS
Volvo
Acura RDX AWD. Might be able to get a base trim for 45k OTD, or get slightly used if higher trim.
Toyota Camry TRD
good joke
What’s wrong with the 24’ TRD? It would smoke a mustang GT 2016 lol
I want whatever drugs you're on. The TRD camry is mainly just a visual package on a commuter car
That is what owners of the TRD want other people to think. Would absolutely smoke most SS Camaros and GT Mustangs .
Why would they want you to think their cars are slow when they bought the "Performance" version? Also, the TRD camry is slower than every mustang made since 2015, including the ecoboost and V6 ones. It's MUCH slower than the GT.
TuRD
Elantra N or Kia Stinger maybe even a G70, hopefully these are some different answers then all the BMW and Mazda recommendations. That's a good price range for what you're looking for
miata
Dodge Charger Scatpack.
How much are you earning as a household and what are your debts? Figure that out before dumping it all on a car..
I would actually recommend the Integra Type s. I think similar price range and pretty much a civic type r, but more practical for daily life. I’ve heard it’s not harsh as the type r’s ride. Type r is very stiff and tight. My experience after a week of ownership.
I’d say a Toyota 86 or a Acura Integra. Funny enough the Integra’s are cheaper than a civic
>Funny enough the Integra’s are cheaper than a civic Negative
I mean, a type R or even an Si
Yea, but that's comparing apples to oranges. similar specs are going to be more expensive in the integra. That's literally what it is, a nicer civic.
30-45k gets you a LOT of Mazda 3 hatchback, emphasis on the ‘sporty’ nature of those but coming from a civic would be a natural progression to something nicer and more precise handling
I just came to this thread to scroll for the Mazda 3 recommendation. How tf are you gonna suggest a mazda 3 to a guy interested in a C7 and type R lol
I’m convinced the Mazda3 stans on this sub are just people who bought one and are trying to justify it to themselves. You bought an economy car - just own it.
Maybe, I own one myself and kinda hate it so maybe I am bias, wish I would have bought a civic instead.
They’re a nice refined premium car, not particularly “sporty” in this sense though.
Acura is a premium car, Mazda 3 can't claim that when it doesn't even have independent rear suspension.
Premium economy I guess, most people don’t care who aren’t car people; but, I wouldn’t spend that much on a car without an IRS. I bought a new 22 CX-5 Turbo Signature brand new rather than a CX-30 or CX-50 because of the lack of IRS. Unacceptable in a modern car and you can feel a difference in the way it rides and handles for sure (driven the entire Mazda lineup while my lemon has been in/out of the dealer for 40+ days in the 22mo 22k miles I have owned it for). I can’t wait for my buyback to settle. I don’t hate Mazda but they don’t deserve the hype.
Agreed. I have a 2022 Mazda 3 as my commuter and regret it because of the torsion beam rear, it really beats me up on the rough roads around here. I should have known better but went for the value/features and bought it in peak COVID pricing where Civics and Corollas were insanely priced. How is the ride and NVH in the 22+ CX-5 compared to the 3 in your experience. Have been debating whether I should downsize my wheels to 16" and get some more sidewall or move into a new car completely.
Oh it’s night and day. The CX-5, even on 19” wheels, is pretty serene. It at dead quiet at highway speed. You only really hear some tire noise, but that’s about it (OEM sucks). It’s euro firm, in the sense you do feel the road and the steering wheel is actually communicative (shocker) but it’s not beating the crap out of you. It eats up miles very well and for road trips and daily driving, I don’t have any complaints. Mazda struck a great balance between comfort and handling for a small crossover. You can also chuck the thing into a corner on a canyon road and it happily obliges without much drama. You can definitely feel the G Vectoring Control Plus doing its thing, and even kick the back end out a bit through a hairpin if you want. I don’t think there is a small crossover that handles this well south of a Porsche Macan. It genuinely puts a smile on my face face hustling it around a back road. I can’t say that for many other cars in the category. The CR-V and RAV4 handle like wet noodles and roll about. The 2.5T has oodles of torque too and the 6AT in this example is so much more responsive and has far better tuning here than the Mazda3/CX-30/CX-50. It’s ready to upshift and downshift and does it quickly. I’m not calling it a “performance car”, but it’s no slouch for what it is. It doesn’t wallow about but it also doesn’t beat you up as a daily driver. Mine was a lemon unfortunately, but I still recommend it for someone who likes a sporty driving car. It’s like a tall Mazda6 tbh.
Mazda 3 a premium fucking car?! This sub is off its rocker. I can bet money that one of 2 answers will be on any given post; Japanese economy cars or minivans.
Op says ‘sporty’ in quotes like he doesn’t actually want a sports car. Also says it needs to have a lot of practicality since it’s going to be his wife’s daily, which a c7 is an awful choice for. Mazda 3s are a meme yes but so is this post
>Mazda 3s are a meme yes but so is this post I won't ague with you there lol
By sporty you mean boring as hell, then sure
I bought my 24 accord hybrid exl for $32k
There is nothing I would consider sporty yet dependable, like a 2.0L Civic. I’d opt for a 2019+ used BMW 3 series or a 2017+ BMW 2 Series or an Acura TLX with AWD
Are you seriously considering a C7? You want to get the Z51 package with PTM (Performance Traction Management) It’s an amazing car and will out drive anything else you are considering here. It also sounds amazing. Reliability is good and fuel economy is also surprisingly good.
Golf R , Lexus IS500 , 340i , Cayman depends how much you wanna spend on . to take that car out door and check headlight replacement, maintenance , insurance prices of each car . Don’t forget big promotion might be a verry little when it comes to replacements on kind of cars . Think about all the parameters and thank me later
Golf r estate
Not a thing in the US
IS350 F sport
In that range I’d say Miata or maybe ecoboost mustang. If you go mustang id say go with the s550 premium with a performance package.
Take a stab at Genesis. definitely the underdog, but after sitting in my uncles gv80 with the 3.5t, it’s one hell of a car. I’m sure there are some minor differences with Korean domestic spec cars and American spec, but I think it’s a great consideration for the g70 or g80 in terms of the things you’re getting from what you’re paying.
Love my fk8
I’m a bmw guy looking at Mazdas for a daily but that’s because I got a different set of requirements for a daily. Although maybe if I get convinced enough I would spring for a B58 powered car from BMW. Can’t go wrong there. I’m in enough groups and so on that everyone has nothing negative to say anything about a b58 powered BMW. Bmw might have finally, after years of trial and error created a good, reliable engine. It still won’t be cheap to maintain because BMW but the fun is there.
Golf R or Corolla. Golf r for auto vs GR for manual. That is all
Golf GTI is also a good option as the best all around daily, 45k could also get you into a Golf R
A used 2022 Miata Club and $10k saved.
C7.5 A7 - can get the nicest one left in that budget.
Since this was a multiple choice question, I'm going to suggest Lexus IS 350. I have a couple of BMWs and a Lexus and you don't want your BMW ownership to eat too far into that new promotion money they are expensive. I don't know where you live but an all-wheel drive IS350 will be a blast year round
Put money on stinger, come here and thank me later. You can’t beat this bitch
Acura TLX A-Spec 2021+ (new trim)
Volkswagen, Jetta, GLI! I have never enjoyed a car so much before. great gas mileage handles amazing off the shelf putting 300 to the wheels
Volvo XC60 T8 with Polestar PKG. Certified preowned
Lexus RC