Now more than ever, automobiles are just too expensive. Finding a truly unique, fun vehicle that isn’t close to six figures is a challenge for most consumers. Here’s a list of the coolest personal vehicles for under $50,000 to ensure you can make the most practical investment in a new ride.
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Sporty & Fun: BMW M240i (Coupe)
There’s no denying the popularity of the famous BMW M3 series in the car enthusiast community. However, this incredible sports car carries a hefty $75,000+ sticker price and retains its value for years, contributing to a thin, expensive M3 aftermarket. Luckily, the BMW M240i model offers consumers an opportunity to own a fun, sporty vehicle similar to the M3 at nearly half the price: $45,800 MSRP!
The M240i model boasts a 3.0L straight-six engine capable of pumping out 335 horsepower and reaching 60 miles per hour in just 4.4 seconds. Additionally, this BMW features high-quality suspension systems and passive driving assistance to ensure an exceptionally balanced drive. If you’ve ever wanted to own a top-tier German automobile with the potential to hit a personal record for lap time, the M240i is the perfect option for you.
Multifunctional SUV: Jeep Wrangler
Perhaps you prefer a larger vehicle with tremendous cabin space, trim lines, and lots of ground clearance. Rather than a sporty coupe, consider shopping for the uber-popular Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon ($43,295) and Sahara ($45,625) are both affordable, multifunctional SUVs—with a few unique tricks up their sleeves as well. Aside from superior off-roading performance and comfort, these versions of the Wrangler boast fully removable doors and hardtop roofs. Plus, the Wrangler is famously modifiable and ideal for passionate gearheads.
If you’re looking to save a bunch of money on your investment, consider purchasing a used Wrangler. Aftermarket Jeeps hold exceptional value and are often unbelievably affordable.
Family-Friendly SUV: Subaru Outback
OK, the Subaru Outback isn’t the coolest-looking vehicle, especially compared to the other options on this list. However, this automobile offers so much more than pretty trim lines and aggressive front-end stylings. Rather, the Subaru Outback is cool because it’s far and away the ideal family-friendly SUV thanks to its cornucopia of helpful amenities, technologies, and features.
The fully upgraded Touring XT model costs just over $40,000 and includes a turbocharged 2.4L boxer-four engine (with 260 horsepower and 277 lb/ft of torque) and an incredibly user-friendly and responsive all-wheel-drive system. It also features an auto-engage anti-slip X-Mode driving setting, and premium interior custom options. Plus, similar to the Jeep Wrangler, the Outback boasts capable off-roading performance abilities, such as passive vehicle dynamics control (VDC), hill descent control (HDC), and active torque vectoring (ATV) technologies.
The automotive market is flush with excellent options, but these are just a few of the coolest personal vehicles for under $50,000. Make sure you fully understand your vehicle needs and desires before signing the dotted line.