With so many compact coupes on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially when considering all the variables. Fortunately, TrueCar’s list of the eight best compact coupes for the money makes finding the right new model easy.

The 3 best compact coupes under $40,000

Every automaker includes an MSRP, but TrueCar takes actual sales data from across the country to calculate a starting market average price (SMAP). We’ll use TrueCar’s SMAP, standard interior features, and engine specs to compare the eight best compact coupes for the money.

1. 2022 Toyota GR86 

The Toyota GR86 is an aggressively styled two-door, four-passenger coupe that sells for around $29,777. It comes with a horizontally opposed 2.4-liter H4 engine making 228 hp. It also comes with a choice of an automatic or manual transmission. 

Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that boasts a clean, modern look. It also features better-quality materials than previous models. However, TrueCar reports that this compact coupe’s rear seats are very snug and could be uncomfortable on longer trips. 

2. 2022 Subaru BRZ 

The Subaru BRZ — like its co-developed rival, the Toyota GR86 — is an aggressive-looking two-door, rear-wheel-drive coupe. It seats four and features the same upgraded interior, including cramped rear seats. It also offers the same H4 engine and transmission options. Though Subaru builds both the GR86 and BRZ, the latter is a few dollars cheaper at $29,696.

3. 2022 BMW 2 Series 

The BMW 2 Series offers classic coupe styling with a subtly aggressive front end. Selling for an average of $36,763, the new 2 Series boasts an upscale interior, impressive standard technology, and the option to upgrade from two to four doors. The available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 255 hp and gets up to 35 mpg on the highway.

The 5 best compact coupes over $40,000

Interestingly, the top eight compact coupes on TrueCar’s list nearly fall in line ranked by price. With the top three under $40,000, the remaining five sit above that price point.

1. 2022 BMW 4 Series 

A TrueCar SMAP of $46,015, nearly identical to BMW’s MSRP, buys a two-door, four-seat BMW 4 Series. Its interior features include premium synthetic cabin materials and dual-zone climate control. Under the hood of the base 4 Series sits the same turbocharged four-cylinder in the 2 Series. 

2. 2022 Audi A5 

The Audi A5, which sells for $45,594, is available as a coupe, hatchback, and convertible. It also comes in three trim levels. Though all options feature premium interior materials throughout the cabin, the new coupe suffers from tight rear seats that could leave passengers feeling cramped. As for power, the A5 Coupe packs a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder producing 261 hp.

3. 2022 Infiniti Q60 

At $42,612, the Infiniti Q60 is the least expensive among the compact coupes over $40,000. Much like its rivals, the Q60 boasts a beautiful interior but cramped rear seating. However, it pulls ahead of the competition with its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 harnessing 300 hp. 

4. 2022 Lexus RC 

The $45,089 Lexus RC exhibits the most aggressive styling in the over-$40,000 category. It also features premium synthetic interior materials with wood trim and dual-zone climate controls. Meanwhile, its turbocharged inline-four produces 241 hp, delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

5. 2022 Audi S5 

At $56,821, the Audi S5 is the most expensive compact coupe on the list, placing it at number eight. Essentially an upgraded A5, the 2022 S5 features the same premium interior materials, advanced technology, and cramped rear seating. However, upgrades include all-wheel drive and a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 making 349 hp. 

Choosing the best compact coupe

Buying a car based solely on data and photos used to be unimaginable. However, as online car-buying sites become popular, shopping for a car online, scheduling a delivery to your door, and returning the vehicle if it doesn’t fulfill your needs makes the unthinkable a reality.

So, do your research and read the fine print when choosing any car, even if you’re buying it from a dealership after an old-fashioned test drive.