11 Beginner-Friendly Sports Cars That Offer Maximum Thrills for the Buck

5. Hyundai Veloster N

Hyundai's Veloster N burst onto the scene and immediately proved you don't have to spend big to get massive grins per mile. Tuned by genuine enthusiasts, this bold front-wheel-drive coupe offers turbocharged thrills, sharp handling, and everyday usability in one punchy package. It’s playful, with a chassis geared for those who want to toss it around on back roads (or even a track day) but also comfortable enough for commutes.

6. Honda Civic Si

Honda’s Civic Si is proof that a fun-to-drive car doesn’t have to be complicated or break the bank. Long loved by budget-minded tuners and new drivers alike, the Si takes the already practical Civic and injects it with sharper steering, a firm (but still forgiving) suspension, and an eager turbocharged engine. It’s a car that asks to be driven—and rewards you with every shift of the silky manual gearbox.