Driving doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be an exhilarating experience, and you don’t need a supercar to achieve that. Plenty of affordable cars deliver performance and handling that will put a smile on your face every time you hit the road. We’ve compiled a list of 10 of the Most Fun Cars To Drive, ranging from sporty sedans to nimble city cars and even an electric powerhouse.
Top 10 Fun-to-Drive Cars
1. Alfa Romeo Giulia
The Alfa Romeo Giulia, a sporty sedan, offers an exhilarating driving experience thanks to its responsive chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout. While the suspension might feel a tad firm in city driving, and the interior technology could be considered somewhat dated, few cars in its class provide as much enjoyment when pushed to the limits. The Giulia offers a range of engine choices, from a 200hp or 280hp four-cylinder to the powerful 510hp twin-turbo V6 in the Giulia Quadrifoglio.
2. BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series, the quintessential sporty sedan, remains a benchmark for engaging driving dynamics. The thrill isn’t limited to the top-tier M340i or M3 models; even the base 184hp 320i offers brisk acceleration and impressive handling. A mid-spec 245hp 330i often strikes the perfect balance between performance and price.
3. Hyundai i20 N
The Hyundai i20 N fills the void left by the Ford Fiesta ST, offering a lightweight, powerful, and stylish hot hatch experience. With its race-inspired body kit and spirited performance, the i20 N is a worthy contender in the hot hatch segment. While the ride can be a bit firm, the exceptional handling makes it a worthwhile trade-off.
4. Honda Civic Type R
The Honda Civic Type R consistently ranks among the sharpest-handling hot hatches. This latest iteration elevates the driving experience to new heights, delivering unmatched thrills for a family hatchback. While the price tag might be higher than its predecessor, the significantly upgraded interior and more refined exterior styling justify the premium.
5. Abarth 500e
The Abarth 500e defies the notion that electric hot hatches can’t be fun. Its impressive handling and amusing artificial engine noises (which can be toggled on or off) make it a unique and entertaining drive. This funky EV is a blast to pilot, offering a distinctive driving experience.
6. Mazda MX-5
The Mazda MX-5, a classic roadster, is a natural choice for driving enthusiasts. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, available manual transmission, and responsive naturally aspirated engines make it a pure driving machine. While faster and more practical cars exist at its price point, few can match the sheer joy of driving an MX-5. The 184hp 2.0-litre engine with a manual transmission offers the most engaging experience.
7. Porsche Cayman
The Porsche Cayman, a mid-engined sports car, boasts exceptional handling balance. While the base four-cylinder models are quick, the pricier six-cylinder variants offer a more exhilarating soundtrack. The top-of-the-line 493hp GT4 RS is arguably one of the most well-rounded sports cars available.
8. Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3, known for its blistering acceleration, provides an unmatched thrill ride. The instant surge of power never gets old, and outpacing supercars off the line is pure fun. The Model 3 Performance, with its Track Mode, offers the ultimate driving experience.
9. Toyota GR Yaris
The Toyota GR Yaris, a pocket rocket disguised as a standard Yaris, packs a powerful 280hp 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Its impressive performance makes it incredibly quick and agile. The optional Circuit Pack enhances the driving experience further.
10. Suzuki Swift Sport
The Suzuki Swift Sport demonstrates that exhilarating driving doesn’t require excessive power. Its lightweight design (just 1,025kg) and 129hp 1.4-litre turbocharged engine make it feel incredibly nimble and responsive, especially when cornering.
Conclusion
These 10 cars exemplify the diversity of fun-to-drive vehicles available. Whether you prioritize sharp handling, blistering acceleration, or a pure driving experience, there’s a car on this list that will ignite your passion for driving. From affordable hot hatches to high-performance sports cars and electric vehicles, the pursuit of driving pleasure is within reach.
