If you crave speed and precision handling but don’t want the impracticality of a two-door coupe or the bulkiness of an SUV, a sports sedan is the perfect middle ground. These cars deliver thrilling performance with powerful engines, sharp handling, and the added benefit of a spacious trunk and rear seats—something most coupes simply can’t match.
High-performance sedans often fall into the luxury category, carrying steep price tags when new. Even non-luxury models with powerful engines tend to be significantly more expensive than their standard counterparts. However, thanks to depreciation, many BMW M, Mercedes-AMG, and other performance sedans have become surprisingly affordable on the used market, making them more accessible than ever.
In this list, we’re showcasing ten high-performance used sedans that offer serious speed without breaking the bank. Covering a range of powertrains and drivetrains—all under $30,000—these cars prove that you don’t have to compromise excitement for practicality.
10 Performance Sedans That Outclass Sports Cars
This list celebrates ten extraordinary sedans that challenge the notion that conventional sports cars are the ultimate driving machines.
10
2015 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG
Current Value: $27,174
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 7-speed automatic |
469 hp 479 lb-ft |
Rear-wheel drive |
3.9 seconds 155 MPH |
Mercedes-Benz is known for crafting refined interiors and exteriors that deliver a cloud-like driving experience. On the flip side, Mercedes-AMG takes that luxury and injects it with raw, unbridled performance—thanks to a hand-built bi-turbocharged V8 that delivers serious power.
Other highlights include an adaptive suspension for precise handling and supportive sports seats. You can now find this powerhouse for under $30,000. While its 12.6 cubic feet of trunk space isn’t the largest on this list, it’s still enough for weekend bags or grocery runs—making it a thrilling yet practical choice.
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9
2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S
Current Value: $27,137
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V-8 7-speed automatic |
520 hp 516 lb-ft |
All-wheel drive |
3.6 seconds 192 MPH |
The Porsche Panamera, alongside the Cayenne, is one of the most practical models in Porsche’s lineup. It’s a perfect blend of high-octane performance and everyday usability. This hatchback sedan offers 15.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 44.6 cubic feet with the second row folded.
Believe it or not, the original MSRP was around $183,000, but thanks to depreciation, the Panamera Turbo S is now a serious performance bargain. Under the hood, its twin-turbocharged V8 delivers near-supercar levels of power. Just be mindful—while the price has dropped significantly, maintenance costs can still hit hard.
8
2019 Dodge Charger R/T
Current Value: $24,028
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V-8 8-speed automatic |
370 hp 395 lb-ft |
Rear-wheel drive |
5.2 seconds 149 MPH |
The Dodge Charger is classified as a full-size sedan. That means you get a spacious 16.5-cubic-foot trunk along with one of the largest passenger compartments in its class, making it a surprisingly practical performance car.
Even better, it packs a ferocious naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8, delivering 370 horsepower and a pseudo-classic muscle car feel with modern comforts. Despite its power, the Dodge Charger R/T has held its value well, with an original MSRP of around $36,000—though depreciation has now made it an even better deal.
10 Performance Sedans That Are Criminally Underrated
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7
2018 Audi S4
Current Value: $23,401
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 8-speed automatic |
354 hp 369 lb-ft |
All-wheel drive |
4.4 seconds 155 MPH |
The Audi S4 could be considered a bit of a sleeper. It’s a luxury Audi sedan that looks more practical than sport-oriented, with the only real giveaway being the oversized wheels and the red badging on the grille and rear.
As one of the few supercharged entries on the list, the S4 delivers a unique whine and spool-up sensation. Inside, it features a driver-focused cockpit and a 12.6-cubic-foot trunk, with rear seats that fold down to offer even more cargo space.
6
2008 Lexus IS F
Current Value: $23,008
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 8-speed automatic |
416 hp 371 lb-ft |
Rear-wheel drive |
4.4 seconds 170 MPH |
The Lexus IS F is another sleeper hit, with the only giveaway being the more elongated hood that accommodates the massive 5.0-liter V8. The original IS F has held its value well, with an original MSRP of around $60,000.
Lexusis known for providing a smooth, comfortable ride and maintaining a reputation asone of the most reliable brands on the market. Practically speaking, the IS F offers 13.8 cubic feet of trunk space for a compact sedan, making it a solid choice for those seeking both performance and practicality.
5
2009 Pontiac G8 GXP
Current Value: $22,753
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 6-speed automatic |
415 hp 415 lb-ft |
Rear-wheel drive |
4.5 seconds 148 MPH |
The GXP version of the Pontiac G8 doesn’t hide its performance credentials, with aggressive hood scoops, a bold front fascia, larger wheels, and sporty side skirts. Despite its performance-focused design, it has held its value decently well, with an original MSRP of around $39,000.
Inside, the G8 GXP stands out as one of the most practical on this list, offering 17.0 cubic feet of trunk space—a substantial amount for a performance sedan. The cabin is outfitted with supportive sport seats and a luxurious, tech-filled interior, making it feel more premium than its price suggests, especially for the era it was released.
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4
2011 BMW M3 Sedan
Current Value: $20,329
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V-8 6-speed manual |
414 hp 295 lb-ft |
Rear-wheel drive |
4.6 seconds 155 MPH |
The BMW M3 is truly the ultimate driving machine, and this generation is no different. With its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8, it can reach 60 mph in a blistering 4.6 seconds. The original MSRP of this M3 was around $60,000.
Inside, the materials are high quality, the cargo room is decent with 13.0 cubic feet to speak of, and the driving experience is unparalleled. The cabin strikes a perfect balance between luxury and sport, with well-bolstered seats and intuitive tech that enhances the driving experience.
3
2015 Subaru WRX STI
Current Value: $15,876
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Turbocharged 2.5-liter flat 4-cylinder 6-speed manual |
305 hp 290 lb-ft |
All-wheel drive |
4.6 seconds 155 MPH |
This might have the smallest engine on the list, but the 2015 Subaru WRX STI should not be overlooked. It packs a powerful punch with a turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four engine and comes standard with a rally-inspired all-wheel-drive drivetrain. If you’re not a fan of the newest generation’s styling, opting for this previous generation can save you quite a bit of money.
The interior is sporty yet practical, with four doors and 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space. It’s a solid choice for daily commuting but can easily open up when needed, giving you the versatility to tear up the roads or take on more rugged paths.
2
2013 Audi S8
Current Value: $14,557
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 8-speed automatic |
520 hp 479 lb-ft |
All-wheel drive |
3.6 seconds 155 MPH |
The Audi S8 is the ultimate combination of luxury, performance, and practicality. It stands out with sportier styling on the front fascia and wheels, giving it an aggressive look that matches its capabilities. The original MSRP of $90,000 is nearly as impressive as the car’s performance itself.
As an executive-class sedan, the S8 offers a spacious cabin that comfortably seats five, while the 14.2 cubic feet of trunk space provides ample room for luggage and cargo. Packed with advanced technology, it also features air suspension that helps deliver a smooth ride on bumpy roads while still supporting dynamic driving.
10 Performance Sedans That Won’t Break The Bank
Who says you have to shell out $70,000+ for a thrilling four-door? The used car market is bursting with cut-price capable performance sedans.
1
2016 Jaguar XF S
Current Value: $14,159
|
Engine & Transmission |
Output |
Driveline |
Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 8-speed automatic |
380 hp 339 lb-ft |
Rear-wheel drive |
5.1 seconds 155 MPH |
If you’re looking for more practicality and performance from across the pond, the Jaguar XF S should be on your radar. With Jaguar planning to phase out internal combustion engines, now’s your chance to enjoy the thrill of a supercharged V6.
Originally priced around $60,000, these are now a definite steal. The XF S also offers one of the most practical cargo spaces on this list, with 17.8 cubic feet, perfect for daily errands or weekend getaways. While it’s great for everyday use, it also has the ability to let loose and provide plenty of fun on winding roads.