When we think of fun-to-drive cars, our minds often jump to flashy sports cars and exotic supercars. But while those high-performance machines steal the spotlight, a whole category of everyday cars offer plenty of driving enjoyment without sacrificing reliability or practicality. Here are 15 such cars!

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

In 2019, Volkswagen gave the Jetta GLI a sporty overhaul, making it suitable for drivers who want GTI-like performance in a more subtle, everyday package. This vehicle is powered by an EA888 gasoline engine producing 228 hp paired with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

2020 Mazda 3

As part of a long lineage of compact cars, the 2020 Mazda 3 combines elegant design with impressive driving dynamics. Mazda wanted to create a small car that drives like a premium vehicle while focusing on driver engagement. It comes with multiple engine options and retails for around $21,000.

2024 Acura Integra A-Spec

This is the top tier of the beloved Acura Integra, offering luxury and practicality in the same package. Integra A-Spec suits those who want a sporty experience with the reliability of Honda but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. It won the 2023 North American Car of the Year award.

2018 Clio IV RS Facelift

Before being discontinued, the Renault Clio IV RS received a facelift in 2018, further enhancing its reputation as one of the most fun hot hatches on the market. Renault Sport aimed to make the Clio RS more dynamic and attractive to a wider audience with an aggressive design and improved performance.

2022 Honda Civic Si

The Honda Civic Si has long been a favorite among enthusiasts who want an affordable, sporty sedan. In 2022, Honda kept the tradition alive with a model that focuses on driving pleasure while remaining practical for everyday use. It’s a car that could perform on a track yet handle daily driving.

2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Since 1989, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has established its status as a legend in the world of affordable sports cars, and the 2020 model stays true to its roots. Mazda designed the Miata to be lightweight, fun, and affordable, with an engine that could hit 181 hp.

2023 Subaru WRX

For around $31,000, the 2023 Subaru WRX is an iconic model as it builds on the legacy of rally heritage and all-weather performance. This car is as fun to drive on city streets as it is on gravel with a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 271 hp.

2023 Hyundai Elantra N

This car is a 7th generation model of the popular N performance division, which aims to bring excitement to everyday cars. The Elantra N is a high-performance version of the popular Elantra sedan for those who want the fun of a hot hatch in the body of a compact sedan.

2024 Ford Mustang

With two engine options, the 2024 Ford Mustang can reach 500 hp in the Dark Horse trim. Ford has carefully updated the Mustang to appeal to purists and modern drivers, combining powerful engines with advanced features. It’s a car for anyone who loves the open road and craves roaring engines.

2020 Fiat 500

Available in coupé and fixed-profile convertible, the 2020 Fiat 500 is an A-segment compact, stylish car that’s a blast to drive, especially in urban environments. Its small size and responsive handling make it easy to zip through tight spaces. It comes in my engine options and trims, with the highest reaching a top speed of 127 mph.

2022 Toyota Camry TRD

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD is a high-performance version of the dependable midsize sedan that retails for less than $30,000. It infuses the practical Camry with racing-inspired performance and styling for enthusiasts who need reliability but want a taste of the track.

2024 BMW M240i

As a sweet spot between BMW’s performance-focused M cars and its more pedestrian models, BMW designed the M240i as a compact luxury coupe with serious performance credentials like the 50:50 weight distribution. It’s a throwback to BMW’s classic rear-wheel-drive coupe formula with modern updates and retails for around $50,000.

2019 Toyota GR Supra

After the A80 Supra was discontinued in 2002, the 2019 Toyota GR Supra returns in collaboration with BMW to bring the legendary nameplate into the modern era while maintaining the same performance DNA. it’s a blend of Japanese engineering and German precision, with a focus on sporty and agile handling.

2023 Kia Stinger

Kia produced and sold the Stinger as a midsize fastback to challenge European luxury brands. The car could accelerate to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, 6 seconds, and 4.9 seconds for the 2.2-liter diesel, 2.0-liter gasoline, and 3.3-liter gasoline engines, respectively.

2024 Volkswagen Golf R

Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder that makes 315 hp, the 2024 Volkswagen Golf R is the latest addition to VW’s popular Golf lineup for driving enthusiasts who want hot-hatch performance in an everyday car. It’s a car built for those who want fun and function.