Our Favourite New Sports Coupes

Affordable Style and Performance in The New Car Market

December 1, 2024

Coupes are the quintessential choice for those who want a splash of style, a dose of sportiness, and the practicality of a smaller footprint. They're fun to drive and undeniably eye-catching, but many associate them with hefty price tags.

Luckily, not all coupes demand six-figure investments. Here’s a rundown of six of the cheapest coupes you can buy, blending affordability with the thrills that coupe lovers crave.

1. Mazda MX-5 – $46,000

If "fun on a budget" were a car, the Mazda MX-5 would be its poster child. With its lightweight design, rear-wheel drive, and timeless appeal, the MX-5 (or Miata, as it's affectionately known) offers a pure driving experience that’s hard to beat at this price point. Its 135 kW output, combined with a feather-light 1,058 kg kerb weight, keeps it under the P plate-friendly threshold.

Key Highlights:

• 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine
• 135 kW of power
• Manual or automatic transmission options
• P-Plate Friendly

2. Subaru BRZ – $48,000

The Subaru BRZ has cemented its reputation as a driver’s car, thanks to its precise handling and playful rear-wheel-drive dynamics. Co-developed with Toyota, this coupe is all about balance rather than outright power. Its 170 kW engine paired with its weight results in a power-to-weight ratio that exceeds the P plate limit, so it’s not suitable for provisional drivers.

Key Highlights:

• 2.4-litre naturally aspirated flat-four engine
• 170 kW of power
• Not P Plate friendly
• Crisp six-speed manual or automatic
  

3. Toyota GR86 – $48,000

Sibling to the Subaru BRZ, the Toyota GR86 caters to those who want a similar driving experience with a slightly different badge. Like the BRZ, its power-to-weight ratio exceeds the P plate limit, making it off-limits for provisional drivers. However, for those unrestricted by these laws, it’s a delight on twisty roads.

Key Highlights:

• Identical specs to the Subaru BRZ
• Not P Plate friendly
• Subtle styling tweaks for a distinct look

4. Ford Mustang – $75,000

Ok I'll admit it, we're stepping a little bit out the "affordable" criteria I mentioned earlier. But I can't go without mentioning the Ford Mustang.

It's base model, equipped with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine, is surprisingly P plate friendly in its lower configurations, with 224 kW of power in a larger, heavier frame keeping it just within the legal limits. This makes it one of the rare muscle cars that provisional drivers can enjoy legally.

Key Highlights:

• Turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• P plate friendly (base model only)
• Bold, aggressive styling
• A surprisingly roomy cabin for a coupe
  

5. Nissan Z – $82,000 Drive Away

I absolutely LOVE these. The Nissan Z perfectly blends retro-inspired styling with cutting-edge performance.

With a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 delivering an impressive 298kW, this coupe is designed for those who crave speed and excitement.

It’s a thrilling choice for drivers who appreciate power and precision, making it a standout for car enthusiasts.

Key Highlights:

• 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine
• 298kW of power
• Not P Plate friendly
• Rear-wheel drive for pure driving pleasure
  

Final Thoughts

While coupes often conjure images of high-end luxury and supercar exclusivity, these six prove that you don’t need to win the lottery to enjoy the sleek styling and spirited performance they offer.

P-Plate drivers can take solace in the fact that the Mazda MX-5 and Ford Mustang (base model) remain legal options, offering style and excitement within the rules.

From the accessible joy of the Mazda MX-5 to the turbocharged muscle of the Nissan Z, there’s a coupe here for every budget and taste.

So, if you’re ready to add some excitement to your driveway, now’s the perfect time to consider one of these budget-friendly beauties. After all, driving should be more than just getting from A to B—it should be an experience.