Fifty thousand dollars is not exactly spare change. But in the new-vehicle market, it's pretty much where we draw the line between budget and mainstream. Under $50k, we're talking pretty basic transport.
Or are we? We'd argue long and hard that you don't need high power and high handling limits to really enjoy yourself on public roads. Quite the opposite, in fact: a well-sorted car with modest outputs is arguably as much fun as any exotic, because you're using more of its ability, more of the time.
We've gone looking for cars under $50k that still provide plenty of dynamic flair. They do have to be in budget, but they are not allowed to be boring. They have to be cars that will make you happy and make you proud to own.
So here they are: our budget-priced heroes; some even give you quite a bit of change from $50k.
Ford Puma ST
The Puma ST was a surprise package for us when we reviewed it last year. Not to be confused with the excellent-but-nowhere-near-as-fruity Puma “ST-Line”, the ST is a proper Ford Performance product, like a Mustang or Ranger Raptor.
It’s modestly powered and quite thrifty, but the Puma ST is a hoot to drive: it makes great noises and charges around corners. You’re even sitting on proper Recaro sports seats.
MG4
The MG4 does not pretend to be a sporty car in any way, shape, or form. And yet in addition to its many other talents, the 2023 AA DRIVEN NZ Car of the Year overall winner is also a ridiculous amount of fun to drive.
It’s RWD, which helps. It’s electric with all that torque, which also helps. But it’s also just a well-engineered little machine. And our $50k budget gets you the choice of entry Excite or Essence, 51kWh or 64kWh batteries.
Suzuki Swift Sport
There’s no sign of the new Swift Sport yet, but the previous-generation version (which is still on sale) still gets our vote for a budget bargain.
You’ll get respect from those in the know: the Sport doesn’t just have more power, the chassis has been thoroughly reworked to please discerning drivers. It’s also one of very few family cars still available with a manual gearbox, although our top-tip is that the automatic is more impressive than the slightly notchy three-pedal transmission. Sacrilege, we know.
Mini Cooper C
Thought there was no way you could get a new-gen Mini for less than $50k? Well, you can. Just. With $10 change.
It’s the entry Cooper C with the tiny 3-cylinder engine and full disclosure, we haven’t reviewed this one yet. But past experience with Mini product suggests to us that the cheapest one with the smallest engine might just the most entertaining.
Suzuki Jimny
Fun doesn’t just have to mean on-road fun, right? Yes, we keep banging on about the Jimny, but with retro-cute looks and really serious 4x4 ability, we couldn’t leave the little Suzuki (yes, yes, another Suzuki) out of this list.
Our $50k budget gets you any kind of Jimny you want, from a 3dr manual right up to the 5dr with automatic transmission and two-tone paint. You’ll even have change for accessories; don’t forget the accessories.