Life is too brief to settle for a dull automobile, and even when working with a limited budget, there’s no need to compromise on enjoyment. Numerous fun cars under 10k, ensuring that every time you slip into the driver’s seat.

Whether your preference leans towards a spirited roadster, a muscle car designed to capture attention or a practical hatchback that still delivers an enjoyable driving experience, the ideal SUV awaits you.

Understanding What Makes a Car Fun

Before diving into specific models, it’s important to define what makes a car fun. Here are some factors that contribute to the enjoyment of a vehicle:

• Performance: How the car handles, accelerates, and brakes.
• Design: The aesthetic appeal of the car, both exterior and interior.
• Driving Experience: The feel of the car on the road, including how connected you feel to the vehicle.
• Unique Features: Anything that makes the car stand out, such as convertible tops, unique technology, or distinctive styling.
• Reliability and Maintenance: Even a fun car needs to be reliable and relatively easy to maintain.

Here is the list of affordable cars under $10

• Mazda MX-5 Miata
• Toyota GR86
• Hyundai Veloster N
• Kia Rio 5-Door GT-Line
• Mazda3 Sport
• Honda Civic S
• Volkswagen Golf GTI

1) Mazda MX-5 Miata

• MSRP Starting From: $28,045
• Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 181 hp
• Torque: 151 lb-ft
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph: 6.5 to 6.8 sec.
• Fuel Economy: 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway 
• Curb weight: 2,342 lbs to 2,392 lbs
• Body Style: 2-seat roadster

The MX-5 Miata evolved in 1989 in the automotive world. The Mazda succeeded admirably, offering a modern interpretation of the lightweight, rear-wheel-drive roadster. It punches with its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 181 horsepower. 

The Mazda MX-5 Miata remains an enduring icon in the world. Its dedication to simplicity and driving enjoyment has endeared it to enthusiasts for generations. With its lightweight design, engaging performance, and thoughtfully designed interior, the Miata continues to be a top choice for those seeking affordable driving thrills.

Safety Features of Mazda MX-5 Miata

• Convertible top for open-air driving
• Timeless design that never goes out of style
• Active community of owners and enthusiasts
• Limited-slip differential
• Bose sound system
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Air conditioning
• Cruise control
• Power windows and door locks
• Remote trunk release

2) GR86

• MSRP Starting From: $27,700
• Engine: 2.4L boxer 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 228 hp 
• Torque: 184 lb-ft 
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds 
• Fuel Economy: 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
• Curb weight: 2,831 lbs (
• Body Style: 2+2 sports car

The GR86, which stands for “Gazoo Racing” and “86,” pays homage to its predecessor, the Toyota 86 (formerly known as the Scion FR-S), while infusing it with Gazoo Racing’s high-performance DNA.

One of the standout features of the GR86 is its exceptional balance and agility. With a weight distribution close to 50/50, the car exhibits remarkable poise through corners and quick directional changes. The finely tuned suspension, responsive steering, and rigid chassis contribute to a level of control and feedback.

With its powerful engine, agile handling, striking design, and driver-centric interior, it is a worthy successor to the Toyota 86 lineage. The Toyota GR86 is poised to deliver the purest essence of sports car exhilaration. It’s a compelling choice for enthusiasts who crave the thrill of the open road and the joy of driving.

Safety Features of GR86

• Lightweight construction for agility and performance
• Low centre of gravity for stable cornering
• Responsive steering and suspension
• Fun-to-drive nature
• Recaro seats
• Limited-slip differential
• Bose sound system
• LED headlights and taillights
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system

3) Hyundai Veloster N

• MSRP Starting From: $33,595
• Engine: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 275 hp 
• Torque: 260 lb-ft 
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph: 5.9 seconds
• Fuel Economy: 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
• Curb weight: 3,106 lbs
• Body Style: 3-door hatchback

The Hyundai Veloster N is a dynamic and exhilarating addition to the world of hot hatches. The Hyundai N’s chassis and suspension deliver engaging handling characteristics.  

One of the Veloster N’s standout features is its customizable performance settings. Drivers can select from different driving modes, including Normal, Sport, N, and a customizable N Custom mode.

The Hyundai Veloster N represents an exciting and well-rounded package for driving enthusiasts. Its striking design, turbocharged power, engaging handling, and customizable performance settings make it a standout in the hot hatch segment. Whether you’re seeking an exhilarating weekend companion or a daily driver with a dose of excitement, the Hyundai Veloster N is a compelling choice.

Safety Features of Hyundai Veloster N

• Launch control
• Variable exhaust system
• Electronic limited-slip differential
• LED headlight
• Upgraded suspension and tires
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Upgraded brakes

4) Rio 5-Door GT-Line 

• MSRP Starting From $23,690
• Engine: 1.0L turbocharged 3-cylinder
• Horsepower: 120 hp
• Torque: 127 lb-ft 
• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph: 9.7 seconds
• Fuel Economy: 33 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
• Curb weight: 2,638 lbs
• Body Style: 5-door hatchback

The Rio 5-Door GT-Line delivers a balanced and comfortable ride quality. The GT-Line immediately catches the eye with its contemporary and dynamic exterior design. The Kia GT-Line offers a comfortable and well-thought-out interior.

Kia offers a range of options and accessories that allow buyers to personalise their RioGT-Line to suit their preferences. Its interior enhancements, exterior accents, or tech upgrades, and the ability to customise the vehicle add another layer of appeal for those who want to make their Rio their own.

Safety Features of Rio 5-Door GT-Line 

• LED headlights and taillights
• Sport-tuned suspension
• GT-Line styling cues
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• Rearview camera
• Lane departure warning
• Smart cruise control
• Wireless phone charger

5) Mazda3 Sport

• MSRP Starting From: $22,650
• Engine: 2.0L Skyactiv-G 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 155 hp 
• Torque: 150 lb-ft 
• Transmission: 6-speed manual 
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive o
• 0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds 
• Fuel Economy: 28 mpg city / 37 mpg highway 
• Curb weight: 2,885 lbs 
• Body Style: 4-door hatchback

The Mazda3 Sport immediately captivates with its sleek and distinctive design. The front end has a bold grille, slim LED headlights, and a gracefully contoured hood. 

Seating comfort is a priority in the Mazda3 Sport. Supportive and ergonomically designed seats make long journeys enjoyable, and the available leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury. 

In the realm of technology, the Mazda3 Sport has an intuitive 8.8-inch infotainment display that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Safety Features of Mazda3 Sport

• Air conditioning
• Cruise control
• Power windows and door locks
• Remote trunk release
• Cloth seats
• Navigation system
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Lane departure warning
• Smart cruise control
• Leather seats

6) Honda Civic SI

• MSRP Starting From: $28,315
• Engine: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 200 hp 
• Torque: 192 lb-ft 
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph: 6.8 seconds
• Fuel Economy: 27 mpg city / 37 mpg highway
• Curb weight: 2,864 lbs
• Body Style: 4-door sedan

The Honda Civic Si represents the perfect marriage of everyday practicality and driving excitement. Its sporty exterior, turbocharged power, dynamic handling, and driver-focused interior. The Civic Si delivers a thrilling and engaging driving experience. 

The sports seats provide excellent support during enthusiastic drives, and the available red upholstery accents add a touch of sportiness. The driver’s seat offers power adjustments.

The Si-specific touches, including unique alloy wheels and a rear spoiler, give it a distinct visual identity that hints at its performance capabilities.

Safety Features of Honda Civic SI

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlights and taillights
• Sport-tuned suspension
• SI-specific styling cues
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Heated front seats
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• Rearview camera
• Honda Sensing safety suite

7) Volkswagen Golf GTI

• MSRP Starting From: $30,545
• Engine: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 241 hp 
• Torque: 273 lb-ft 
• Transmission: 6-speed manual 
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds 
• Fuel Economy: 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
• Curb weight: 3,005 lbs 
• Body Style: 4-door hatchback

The Volkswagen Golf GTI stands out with its sporty and distinctive design. While it maintains the classic Golf silhouette, it adds aggressive touches that announce its performance intentions.

 The flat-bottomed steering wheel with GTI badging adds a sporty touch, and the available digital cockpit provides a customizable and high-tech driving environment.

Volkswagen equips the Golf GTI with a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Safety Features of Volkswagen Golf GTI

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlights and taillights
• Sport-tuned suspension
• GTI-specific styling cues
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Heated front seats
• 8.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system 
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• Rearview camera
• Volkswagen IQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of fun cars under 10k offers an enticing blend of affordability and exhilaration. From sporty roadsters to agile hatchbacks and timeless classics, the pursuit of driving enjoyment is within reach for all who seek it.

These vehicles typically fall into the used car category, offering a combination of affordability and driving enjoyment. Evaluating a fun car’s overall environmental impact and the presence of modern safety technologies can provide a more comprehensive view of its suitability for daily driving.

FAQs