Sports sedans represent the ultimate compromise for enthusiasts: they provide the utility of a four-door vehicle and trunk space for family needs, paired with the thrill of high-performance engines and agile handling. While these cars are typically built for power rather than hyper-miling, balancing excitement with fuel efficiency is possible if you know what to look for.
For this ranking, we focus on modern used vehicles (2021 or newer) that deliver at least 300 horsepower, excluding electric models.
1. 2024 BMW 540i xDrive: 28 MPG Combined
As part of the eighth-generation lineup, the 2024 BMW 540i xDrive perfectly balances luxury and athleticism. It offers a spacious interior and 18.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Under the hood lies a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 375 horsepower, enabling a 0–60 mph sprint in exactly 4 seconds. It remains a top choice for those who value refined power alongside decent efficiency.
2. 2022 Audi S3: 27 MPG Combined
The Audi S3 is a compact powerhouse that punches well above its weight. Despite its smaller footprint and limited 8.3 cubic feet of trunk space, it offers an engaging driving experience. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 306 horsepower, hitting the 60 mph mark in 4.3 seconds. For those seeking even more intensity, the RS3 variant offers a more aggressive 401-horsepower setup.
3. 2021 Cadillac CT4 Premium Luxury: 25 MPG Combined
The Cadillac CT4 Premium Luxury is highly customizable. When equipped with the 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four, it produces 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The rear-wheel-drive configuration is the most efficient, achieving 25 mpg combined. It offers a generous 42.4 inches of front legroom, though rear-seat passengers have noticeably less space.
4. 2023 Kia Stinger: 25 MPG Combined
The Kia Stinger stands out for its bold styling and practicality. In its base 2.5-liter turbocharged form, it provides 300 horsepower while matching the Cadillac's 25 mpg efficiency. Drivers needing more muscle can opt for the 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6, though fuel economy drops to 20 mpg. With 23.3 cubic feet of cargo space, it is one of the most versatile options on this list.
5. 2023 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC: 24 MPG Combined
While the rear seats in the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 are somewhat restricted, the car makes up for it with sheer driving engagement. The 2.0-liter turbo engine puts out 302 horsepower, allowing for a 0–60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. According to an industry source, while this model is highly capable, buyers often compare it to the Acura Integra Type S, which offers more interior room and cargo capacity for a similar price point.