Looking for a cool car where you don’t have to spend a ton of money? With $40,000, you can grab some seriously impressive machines — from luxury sedans to performance beasts.
In a recent video on his YouTube channel, automotive expert and author Doug DeMuro shared six cool cars you can buy for around $40,000. While inflation and depreciation shift the market, these options still deliver an impressive mix of performance, luxury and fun.
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Genesis G90
Starting with a surprise pick, the Genesis G90 is a full-size luxury sedan that offers a lot for the price. Competing with high-end sedans like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the G90 comes with a 5.0L V8 engine generating 420 horsepower. DeMuro shared that models just a few years old can be found under $40,000 — far less than its original $60,000 price tag. With a plush interior full of screens, leather upholstery and seat controls, this car provides serious luxury without the luxury price.
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Hellcat
For muscle car enthusiasts, Hellcats, modified variants of Dodge’s most popular models, are hard to beat. Powered by supercharged 6.2L V8s producing 700 horsepower, this is raw, tire-smoking power. According to DeMuro, you can still find earlier Hellcats with potentially higher mileage for around $40,000.
Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro (Fifth Generation)
The only SUV on DeMuro’s list, the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is an off-road powerhouse. With rugged features like crawl control and multi-terrain select, it’s ready for any trail. Powered by a 4.0L V6 engine, the 4Runner offers reliability and durability, both on and off the road. It’s a great mix of utility and modern tech and you can get one these days for less than $40,000.
F80 BMW M3
The F80 BMW M3 is a performance car with practical appeal, featuring a 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline-six engine with 425 horsepower. It’s a balanced car, offering excellent handling, responsive brakes and the kind of driving dynamics that make it fun on twisty roads or the track. The four-door sedan layout means it’s practical too, with decent backseat space. While you can easily find one in the $30,000 range, DeMuro suggested a $40,000 budget lets you get even more of what you want — such as a six-speed manual.
Porsche 996 911 4S
For those seeking a more classic sports car, the Porsche 996 911 4S is a solid option. Sold from 1999 to 2005, the 996 offers an authentic Porsche experience at a great price, often available for around $30,000, with a $40,000 budget getting you the wider bodyshell of a Porsche 996 911 4S. It’s a durable, fun-to-drive car that still holds its value.
Audi RS3
DeMuro said the Audi RS3 is a compact performance sedan that packs a punch. Powered by a 2.5L five-cylinder engine with 400 horsepower, the RS3 can hit 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system offers excellent traction, making it a capable and thrilling car on all types of roads. A used RS3 with reasonable mileage can be found under $40,000, making it a top choice for performance enthusiasts.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Cool Cars To Buy on a $40K Budget, According to Car Expert Doug DeMuro
