For those of us who aren’t blowing our budget on a dedicated weekend sports car, we typically think of them as two-door, low-to-the-road cars designed to be experienced in (read: during) the weekends. Fortunately, there’s a lot more cars these days that are embracing a lifestyle that marries sports car performance with comfy, 5-passenger seating and a usable trunk. Here are some of our favorites.
Different types of vehicles-such as hot hatch and sports sedans, crossover SUVs and utility vehicles, and high-performance wagons-integrate impressive acceleration and precise handling with practical function. Responsive motors, properly tuned suspension, and intelligent chassis architecture enable these models to be optimally configured for handling performance while maintaining practicality. Find out how 10 vehicles can turn your drive into a thrill ride.
1. Honda Civic Si Sedan
The Honda Civic Si Sedan appears to be just another four-door sedan. It can fool you into thinking it’s a humble family sedan with a big trunk, comfortable seating, and a nicely appointed interior. With room for four adults, plenty of trunk space, and basic features, it’s a perfect choice for shopping, driving the kids to school, or commuting to work. But under the bodywork is a turbocharged engine and a set of enthusiast car’s tweaks which give the Civic Si a sporty side.
Performance Features:
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine
- Approximately 200 horsepower
- Engaging manual transmission
- Limited-slip differential for improved traction
- Practical cabin and everyday reliability
The Civic Si gets its performance from a lively powertrain and a chassis that invites driver engagement. The car’s manual transmission lets drivers keep the gears while shifting and derive even more road feel and feedback from the handling dynamics. Torque-vectoring technology enhances cornering capabilities when you’re riding the throttle, and a limited-slip differential channels drive torque to the wheel that needs it while offering reassuring grip on slick pavement. Its four doors and versatile trunk make it practical when it’s time to get back to work.
2. Subaru Legacy 3.6R
The Subaru Legacy 3.6R is a sophisticated, well appointed midsize sedan that is designed to be easy to use and comfortable for passengers. Its conservative shape doesn’t hint at its sporty potential and its large cabin and trunk are comfortable for long trips. It’s a bit different than most run-of-the-mill family sedans, as it has a natural aspiration 3.6L flat 6 engine with 256 horsepower and a better than average level of performance for such a demure vehicle. Its standard all wheel drive also ensures the car maintains traction regardless of the weather.
Key Performance Advantages:
- Naturally aspirated 3.6-liter flat-six
- 256 horsepower output
- Standard all-wheel-drive system
- Spacious passenger and luggage areas
- Comfortable long-distance driving ability
Legacy 3.6R comes with comfortable 6-cylinder momentum along with the safety net of Subaru’s “All wheel drive” system. Great for the freeway or winter driving where you start to slip and the road turns slick. The long-travel suspension and mid-sized interior make it a very comfortable, easy-going family car that you could use during the week as well. While no longer available from the factory, used examples may be more attractive to buyers interested in a powerful and unobtrusive sedan. Its practical base makes the extra scope for power a bonus not a trade off.
3. Mazda CX-5 Turbo
It can be tempting to choose a compact crossover because of its practicality, high seating position and cargo capabilities rather than because of its driving characteristics. But the Mazda CX-5 Turbo defies such notions with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine available up to 250 horsepower (premium fuel required). It supplies the crossover with eager acceleration and making passing on the freeway a breeze. Mazda also prioritized steering responsiveness and chassis stability to make sure the CX-5 is eager and confident as it is capable of carrying in the back, providing drivers with all the elements of great road manners.
Driving Highlights:
- Turbocharged 2.5-liter engine
- Up to 250 horsepower on premium fuel
- Responsive acceleration for highway driving
- Precise handling for a compact crossover
- Flexible cargo space and elevated seating
The CX-5 Turbo proves a sensible family crossover doesn’t have to be sluggish or unresponsive to the steering wheel. Its potent motor provides good acceleration, and its honed chassis adds to the sense that it’s firmly planted when cornering. The elevated stance offers a commanding view of the road, while the plentiful cargo capacity can swallow shopping bags, luggage, and ordinary gear. The ground clearance adds the flexibility one would hope for from a small SUV. For those seeking crossover utility with occasional curves thrown in, the turbocharged CX-5 fits the bill.
4. Volkswagen Golf GTI
What’s great about the vehicle The VW Golf GTI has been a legend for decades, in large part because of its ability to combine the extreme sportiness of a high-horsepower hot-hatch with the versatile ease of use of a compact daily driver. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the car above makes 241 horsepower, offering ample power for a daily-driver focused on commuting, while the chassis and suspension delivery the superior handling that GTI has become known for. And with its relatively small footprint, it easily fits into the busy urban streetscape.
Sporty Hatchback Benefits:
- Turbocharged 2.0-liter engine
- 241 horsepower in the specified version
- Balanced chassis and suspension
- Practical rear hatch and cargo area
- Compact dimensions for urban driving
The rear opening of the hatchback makes it more convenient than most sedans for transporting large shopping or travel bags and gear. This turbocharged engine provides spirited motivation, while the suspension keeps the driving experience under control when the road gets bumpy. The small car body makes tight corners and heavy city traffic fairly manageable. For those looking for an exciting vehicle that doesn’t compromise everyday function, the GTI is a great demonstration of the pragmatic performance mantra.
5. Acura TLX Type S
The Acura TLX Type S has the looks of a subdued businessperson’s sedan and the performance of a lively sports sedan. With its upscale exterior and feature-rich interior, the TLX is well-suited to running errands, commuting to work, and heading out for the weekend. Beneath its restrained style, the TLX Type S is fitted with a turbocharged V6 that generates 355 horsepower, along with a Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system to throttle power where it’s needed to help it handle every twist and turn with precision. The result is a spirited sedan that offers smooth, confident handling.
Luxury Performance Details:
- Turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine
- 355 horsepower output
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive
- Refined and comfortable cabin
- Confident acceleration and cornering grip
The TLX Type S is suitable for drivers seeking a decent amount of power without the attention that comes with other exotic sports vehicles. It’s equipped with a decent V6 engine and all-wheel drive that allow for rapid acceleration and contribute to grip when cornering. The sedan has a comfortable feel to it and is equipped with a well-appointed interior, making it suitable for daily driving and the occasional longer trip. Its four-door design makes space for passengers. This makes the TLX Type S a more practical option for drivers who are interested in luxury, power, and some of the conveniences of an everyday car.
6. Toyota Camry TRD
In an effort to inject a more sporty character into the car, Toyota introduced the Camry TRD available for 2020-2024. The Camry TRD is still powered by the same 301-horsepower V6 engine as other Camry models in the range, but it features a sportier suspensions system, high-performance front brakes, and body styling features to make the car more aggressive looking. The sportier handling translates into a more confident driving experience, with a strong acceleration response, yet the car remains comfortable and utilitarian with a fairly subtle exterior.
Performance Upgrade Highlights:
- 3.5-liter V6 producing 301 horsepower
- Sport-tuned suspension setup
- Upgraded front braking hardware
- Aerodynamic exterior enhancements
- Spacious five-passenger cabin
The Camry TRD is still built for everyday work, even with its style and power upgrades. The cabin seats five, with the back seats offering good legroom for an adult. The familiar control layout and comfortable seats help to make day-to-day driving simple, and the V6 engine delivers decent power for passing or merging on the highway. The suspension and brakes make the car a little more lively, but the TRD isn’t meant to be a track-only special. But if you’re shopping for a family sedan with some fun-to-drive appeal, this new Camry TRD has you covered.
7. Hyundai Elantra N
Hyundai’s N performance company took the Elantra, which starts out as a plain-Jane compact sedan, and turned it into something a whole lot more aggressive. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and either a manual gearbox or a dual-clutch automatic, the Elantra N had 276 horsepower and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential that helps transfer power to the front wheels when driving through corners. The car had an aggressive appearance and a sporty exhaust note, but it still looked fairly normal outside and inside, including the four doors.
Performance Engineering Features:
- Turbocharged engine producing 276 horsepower
- Manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission
- Electronic limited-slip differential
- Sport-focused suspension tuning
- Practical four-door compact layout
The Elantra N has an inspired driving experience with the simplicity of a compact car, such as good acceleration from the motor, and the differential gives the added benefit of additional traction control when the throttle is applied during turns. The suspension is tuned, to allow for better road feel than what can be expected from a “normal” commuter automobile. Still, the rear seats and mundane cabin layout make it practical for people, shopping, or just running errands. Enthusiasts who like to stay in a full-size sedan, but still want a performance vehicle, may like the Elantra N.
8. Kia Stinger GT
Though not a full-fledged sports car, the Kia Stinger GT offers sports-sedan driving dynamics and the utility of a five-door liftback. The 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine makes a healthy 365 horses in early models, and 368 horses in newer models, ensuring that the Kia will get you up to speed fairly quickly. With its rear-wheel drive platform, sport-tuned suspension, and available all-wheel drive, you will also enjoy a lively drive. And while the Stinger has a long, sleek body that resembles a traditional sports sedan, the rear liftback adds much-needed practicality.
Power And Practicality:
- Twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6
- 365–368 horsepower depending on model year
- Rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Versatile five-door liftback design
The most practical advantage of the Stinger GT’s liftback body is that opening the rear hatch lets you access the cargo compartment more easily than a trunk lid on a traditional sedan. The Stinger’s cargo space is useful for luggage, groceries, and sports equipment. The twin-turbo V6 engine delivers plenty of power, and the suspension helps keep the car settled on winding roads. The car’s interior and comfortable long-haul ride make the Stinger GT viable for daily use as an everyday car and for taking on road trips. Buyers looking for the attitude of a robust sports sedan and a greater cargo capacity will find the Stinger GT worth considering.
9. Ford Edge ST
The Ford Edge ST imparted a performance badge to a two-row, midsize SUV with a turbocharged 335-horsepower V6 engine. The Edge ST’s sport-tuned AWD and stiffer suspension setup set it apart from the more comfort-oriented crossovers. These mechanical tweaks provide a more assured feel and helps it feel more assured with the steering wheel, especially when pushed to the limit. Even with its tall ride height and family cross-standard dimensions, the Edge ST has surprising grab and go acceleration for drivers who’re used to SUVs with more down-the-road capability.
SUV Performance Highlights:
- Twin-turbocharged V6 engine
- 335 horsepower output
- Sport-tuned all-wheel-drive system
- Firmer suspension for sharper responses
- Spacious two-row passenger and cargo areas
The Edge ST shows a family SUV can be more than high seating and big storage bins. Its twin-turbo V6 has plenty of output; the suspension and all-wheel-drive system make the new Edge’s handling feel more assured than you might expect for its size. The interior boasts ample room for occupants, and the cargo section is big enough for suitcases and typical family gear. Ford has ceased Edge production, so those looking to buy one will usually turn to the used market. Still, the model remains a rare proposition for those seeking the practicality of an SUV combined with the attitude of a sporty vehicle.
10. Audi A4 Allroad
Ever since it hit the scene, the Audi A4 Allroad has been the perfect blend of utilitarian luxury wagon and high-end performance and comfort wagon. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine which offers 261 hp pairs well with the all-wheel-drive architecture of the quattro system to make a sure-footed commuter. But with extra ground clearance and wheel-arch trim, the estate wagon has a more rugged look that sets it apart from a normal run-of-the-mill wagon. But beneath its hardy exterior, there’s still a refined chassis that’s right at home on the highway or a country road.
Versatile Driving Features:
- Turbocharged 2.0-liter engine
- 261 horsepower output
- Quattro all-wheel-drive system
- Raised ground clearance and body cladding
- Spacious wagon-style cargo area
The wagon body of the A4 Allroad grants generous load-carrying ability for camping gear, snow gear, baggage, and everyday shopping. The all wheel-drive layout can keep you moving on damp or slippery roads, and the added ground clearance can lend additional versatility on appropriate rough surfaces. On the asphalt, its sprightly engine and well-honed chassis make for a confident, stable drive. Unlike many of the larger sport utility vehicles, this wagon doesn’t have an excessive amount of bulk and bulk, which makes appreciating its roads-centric virtues that much easier. For drivers who need a good dose of cargo versatility, weather immunity, and engaging road behavior, the A4 Allroad offers a tasty collection.
