Choosing a fun new car for this summer doesn’t have to be reserved for the most wealthy enthusiasts. Instead, fans can check out a few of the most affordable luxury sports cars with premium badges, like the 2023 BMW Z4, Audi TT, or Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. Of course, most of these options hover around the $50,000 price point or higher, so they’re not exactly in Mazda MX-5 Miata or Ford Mustang Convertible territory.  

What are some of the most affordable luxury sports cars for 2023?

There are more affordable options on the market, but these five sports cars offer sharp handling, snappy acceleration, and a luxury driving experience:

• BMW Z4
• Porsche 718 Boxster
• Audi TT
• Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
• BMW M240i xDrive

Unsurprisingly, two BMWs make the list, but for different reasons. Although the 2023 BMW Z4 M40i and the M240i xDrive share the delightfully torquey B58 3.0L inline-six-cylinder engine, the Z4 is more of a top-down convertible roadster. On the other hand, the M240i is a practical two-door coupe with available all-wheel drive (AWD) for summer storms. 

In addition to the BMWs, the Porsche 718 Boxster and Chevrolet Corvette Stingray are razor-sharp sports cars, despite being so different. Finally, the 2023 Audi TT builds on decades of drop-top, short-wheelbase fun. 

Is the BMW Z4 a luxury car?

The BMW Z4 sports a luxury interior, ample space, and a convertible top to let in natural light and fresh air. Moreover, the Z4’s interior fit and materials leave little to be desired. 

The 2023 BMW Z4 starts at around $53,795 for the 30i trim. While that might not be as affordable as a comparable Toyota GR Supra 2.0, the Z4 is more of a luxury sports car than a track-ready driver’s car.  

Is Porsche 718 Boxster a luxury sports car?

The 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster adds a convertible top to the luxury sports car credentials of its sibling, the Cayman. While the 718’s interior might lean on simplicity, the fit, finish, and materials are nothing short of posh. 

Still, at $66,950, the 718 Boxster’s starting point tests the limits of affordability. However, it’s a genuine luxury sports car bargain compared to its ballistic Bruder, the venerable Porsche 911.  

Is the Audi TT a real sports car?

The 2023 Audi TT is the latest iteration of the sober automaker’s drop-top convertible sports car. At $53,295, it’s considerably cheaper than the R8 and keeps the standard AWD Audi fans expect from the interlocking rings. 

Is a Corvette Stingray a luxury sports car?

While some critics and fans might dismiss it, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is a luxury sports car. With a driver-oriented cockpit and removable roof panel, the C8 Corvette Stingray fits The Grand Tour presenter Jeremy Clarkson’s definition of luxury: light and space. 

Is the BMW M240i fast?

The BMW M240i xDrive takes BMW’s handsome luxury interior and adds blistering sports car speed. Specifically, the M240i will hit 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, faster than the more dramatic Toyota GR Supra 3.0 with which it shares an engine. 

Moreover, the BMW M240i xDrive is an excellent summer luxury sports car option, combining grippy AWD and explosive thrust. Of course, it’s not the prettiest option out there; Car and Driver calls it “as pretty as a pug.”