The sedan segment has taken a hard hit over the last decade. SUVs, pickup trucks, and crossovers have eaten the sedan’s lunch. Despite this shift in popularity, enthusiasts still ride hard for some sporty sedans, and no one does sport sedans like the Japanese.
The performance sedan drives one of the world’s most underrated and exciting enthusiast enclaves. The sedans on this list are not only sporty but also under the radar enough to keep prices below $20,000.
To ensure accuracy, the information compiled in this article was sourced from authoritative sources, including the respective manufacturers and popular auction sites for pricing.
Related
Back In The Early 2020s, This Was The Last Affordable JDM Rally Car Before Prices Skyrocketed
This JDM legend was rally royalty in the 2000s, and once didn’t cost a lot at auction. Today, though, it is a different matter altogether.
10
2015–2017 Acura TLX V6
Expected Used Price: $15,000
Base Trim Engine
2.4L Inline-4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
206 hp
Base Trim Torque
182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Infotainment & Features
8 /10
Look, we’re not saying that the Acura TLX V6 is a powerhouse, but it is undeniably a stealthy performance sedan that balances luxury and athleticism in a way only Honda’s premium could. Equipped with a serious 3.5-liter V6 engine and the available SH-AWD system, the TLX puts all 290 horsepower on the road with excellent traction and confident cornering.
The nine-speed automatic transmission is smooth in traffic but quick to respond when you drop the hammer. The ride isn’t full luxury, but it’s still an Acura, so it’s still plenty good on long drives. With upscale interior materials, a solid infotainment system, and a suite of advanced driver aids, the TLX feels like a lot more car than its price tag suggests.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Athletic handling
Fuel-efficient sportiness
Great value compared to rivals
Somewhat underwhelming acceleration
Intrusive road and engine noise
Reports of transmission issues
9
2010–2012 Infiniti G37S Sedan
Expected Used Price: $13,000
Base Trim Engine
3.7L V6 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
7-Speed Automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
328 hp
Base Trim Torque
269 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
If you’re looking for a surprisingly fizzy driving experience wrapped in a mature, rear-drive package, the G37S delivers. Its 3.7-liter V6 engine is naturally aspirated and high-reving, offering one of the, uh, the loudest exhaust notes in its class, which anyone with ears has heard.
The Infiniti G37S even comes in a six-speed manual version, making it a favorite among car nerds. There’s also a seven-speed auto, but no one cares. With strong performance, sharp steering, and a handsome interior, the G37S is a bargain performance sedan that still holds its own today.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Powerful engine and sporty handling
Comfortable cabin
Respectable reliability records
Coarse engine notes
Tight rear seating
Poor fuel economy
8
2008–2012 Honda Accord V6 6MT Sedan
Expected Used Price: $10,000
Base Trim Engine
2.4L Inline-4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
177 hp
Base Trim Torque
161 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Infotainment & Features
9 /10
Often overlooked, the sixth-generation Accord V6 with a six-speed manual is a unicorn in today’s used market. This version combines Honda’s bulletproof reliability with surprising performance thanks to its torquey V6 and slick-shifting gearbox.
Despite its family-sedan looks, it’s shockingly quick and eager to rev, making it an ideal sleeper. We are talking about 271 horsepower, after all. Plus, its spacious cabin and low cost of ownership make this Honda Accord one of the most practical performance bargains around.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Generous passenger space
Solid reliability and low maintenance costs
Good balance of handling and comfort
Cluttered center stack
Potential timing belt maintenance
Intrusive road noise
Related
10 Affordable Japanese Hybrids That Refuse To Break Down
These Japanese HEV options are perfect for long-term ownership.
7
2006–2012 Lexus IS 350
Expected Used Price: $11,000
Base Trim Engine
V6 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
204 hp
Base Trim Torque
185 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Infotainment & Features
8 /10
The Lexus IS 350 blends subtle sophistication with solid speed, making it one of the more refined entries on this list. Beneath its sculpted exterior lies a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers buttery acceleration and a premium feel, backed by Lexus’ rock-solid reputation for reliability.
The interior is quiet and upscale, offering a refined ride and premium materials throughout. It may not be the sharpest handler, but it’s a confident and composed performer that’s built to last.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Smooth and sporty ride
Punchy V6 delivers ample power
Excellent reliability
Tight rear seating
Ride a bit rougher than European rivals
6
2010–2014 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT
Expected Used Price: $11,000
Base Trim Engine
2.5L Flat 4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
173 hp
Base Trim Torque
174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Infotainment & Features
9 /10
The Legacy 2.5GT is the grown-up WRX in disguise, delivering all-wheel drive and turbocharged performance in a more understated wrapper. Its flat-four turbocharged engine offers strong midrange torque, making highway merges and backroad runs equally exciting.
With a manual gearbox and standard AWD, it’s also a capable winter warrior for drivers in snowy climates. While harder to find in good condition, it’s a rewarding choice for enthusiasts who want subtlety and speed.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Standard AWD
Spacious cabin
Good reliability and safety scores
Outdated infotainment system
Higher maintenance costs
5
2007–2012 Mazda 6
Expected Used Price: $10,337
Base Trim Engine
2.3L Inline-4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
156 hp
Base Trim Torque
154 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Raw, underrated, and full of character, the Mazda 6 is a rally-inspired sedan that refuses to be boring. Its turbocharged 2.3-liter engine delivers a generous punch, while standard AWD and a manual transmission make it a rare breed in today’s market.
Unlike more refined sedans, the Mazda 6 leans into aggression with tight steering, firm suspension, and a heavy clutch. It’s not for everyone, but for the right driver, it’s a thrilling, analog experience that punches above its price.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Sporty demeanor
Comfortable ride quality
Multiple body styles
Lackluster cabin material
Limited rear seat room
Potential reliability issues
Related
The Most Reliable Used Japanese Sedans Under $15,000
Are you looking for a reliable car for under $15,000? Check out these used Japanese sedans.
4
2008–2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
Expected Used Price: $9,000
Base Trim Engine
2.0L Inline-4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
152 hp
Base Trim Torque
146 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
The Lancer Ralliart may live in the Evo’s shadow, but that’s part of what makes it such a steal. It borrows heavily from its fire-breathing sibling, including its dual-clutch gearbox, AWD system, and aggressive stance, but dials things down just enough to be livable.
Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine still delivers a jolt of speed, while the chassis offers sharp reflexes without punishing ride quality. For drivers wanting rally DNA without the Evo tax, this is a fantastic middle ground.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Dynamic chassis tuning
Powerful daily driver
Budget-friendly
Reports of low interior quality
Potential transmission troubles
3
2015–2016 Scion tC (with TRD goodies)
Expected Used Price: $9,169
Base Trim Engine
2.5L Inline-4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
179 hp
Base Trim Torque
172 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
While technically a coupe, and technically, also, not that cool, the Scion tC deserves a mention for its affordability, practicality, and modding potential. With a peppy 2.5-liter engine and a six-speed manual, it delivers respectable performance, especially when equipped with TRD suspension, brakes, and exhaust.
The hatchback body adds surprising cargo space, making it far more usable than some other sports coupes. It’s ugly. But it’s also a fun, customizable option that fits younger enthusiasts or daily drivers looking for that third pedal without paying too much.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Solid value proposition
Generous cabin space for a coupe
Endlessly fun to drive
Somewhat harsh ride
Subpar cabin material
Intrusive road noise
2
2012–2016 Toyota Camry SE V6
Expected used price: $12,000
Base Trim Engine
2.5L Inline-4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
178 hp
Base Trim Torque
170 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Infotainment & Features
8 /10
Don’t laugh—the Toyota Camry SE V6 has legit performance chops hiding beneath its vanilla reputation. With 268 horsepower on tap, this midsize Toyota hustles to 60 mph in under six seconds, all while delivering bulletproof reliability and low maintenance costs.
The SE trim adds firmer suspension, paddle shifters, and a sportier exterior, giving it more personality than you’d expect. It’s the perfect stealth performance sedan that will run forever and never ask for much in return.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Excellent reliability
Enough power for confident acceleration
Holds value well
SE’s firmer suspension isn’t for everyone
No AWD
Cumbersome infotainment system
Related
This V8-Powered Japanese Sedan Could Keep Up With A Ferrari In The ’90s
Don’t let the looks fool you. This 90s sedan is still a sleeping monster.
1
2003–2007 Mazda6 V6 5-Speed
Expected Used Price: $5,000
Make
Mazda
Model
Mazda 6 Sedan
Segment
Midsize Sedan
The first-generation Mazda6 with a manual transmission is an old-school gem for drivers who want engagement on a budget. Its 3.0-liter V6 is smooth and rev-happy, while the rare five-speed gearbox adds to its charm and driving enjoyment. The chassis is well-tuned and responsive, offering a fun-to-drive experience that’s becoming increasingly rare at this price point.
With used examples often under $5,000, it’s one of the best entry-level performance sedans out there. Although it’s worth noting that these aren’t known for their luxurious cabins or fit and finish, if you want to build something out of its bones, you can’t find a cheaper option.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Responsive handling
Comfortable and stylish interior
Solid V6 performance
Wide turning circle hinders maneuverability
Short seat bottoms
Reports of cooling fan issues
AloJapan.com