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Best deals on sport cars
Spring is sports car season, with clear roads, fair weather, and flower-festooned landscapes inspiring a desire for a high-velocity escape. It can also be a great time to buy a fun car.
In analyzing the latest nationwide incentives, we have found several iconic models that radiate personality to be available at notable savings. Most cars featured here are late in their model run, meaning a little cash on hood is expected to help them in the sales race. Also, there are a few that are about to be either replaced or treated to a mild update, as noted in the profiles below.
These are the top deals on sports cars for May. In general, the deals are modest compared to what we’re seeing in some other classes, but this is as good as it gets. There may be regional or other special incentives available. All the cars listed below are 2015 models and ranked in alphabetical order. Specific pricing details on these and other trim variations are available on the model pages, along with complete road tests, reliability, owner cost, and other key information.
Also, check our Best New Car Deals—updated monthly, that list features only those models that earn a Consumer Reports recommendation, factoring road test score, reliability, and safety.
Consumer Reports Build & Buy Car Buying Service
When buying a car, in addition to research and reviews, Consumer Reports offers subscribers access to the Build & Buy Car Buying Service at no additional cost. Through this service, a nationwide network of about 10,000 participating dealers provide upfront pricing information and a certificate to receive guaranteed savings off MSRP (in most states). The pricing information and guaranteed savings includes eligible incentives. Consumer Reports subscribers have saved an average of $2,919 off MSRP with the Build & Buy Car Buying Service.
The Camaro looks and sounds like a classic muscle car. Our tested SS was very quick, thanks to its 6.2-liter V8. Performance from the base 3.6-liter V6 was unexciting. Handling is very capable, but the car’s size and weight make it feel ponderous in everyday driving and on our track. Braking performance on the SS is excellent, and the ride is taut and controlled but not punishing. However, the emphasis on exterior and interior styling hurt practicality, hampering visibility, befuddling the control layout, and leaving room for just a small trunk and tiny rear seat. High-performance ZL1 and Z/28 versions top the line. Reliability has improved to average recently. An all-new Camaro will soon be introduced, further empowering shoppers to negotiate a great deal.
The look may be old school, yet the Challenger is a modern, thrilling straight-line barnstormer. But it’s too heavy and wide for handling finesse, and the view out is dreadful. Performance packages include a 485-hp, 6.4-liter Hemi V8, and the ferocious Hellcat uses a 707-hp, 6.2-liter supercharged V8. Transmission choices are a six-speed manual and a new eight-speed automatic. Base models stick with the 3.6-liter V6, but we prefer the 5.7-liter V8. The 2015 model year brought new electric power steering, an updated suspension, improved feel for the electronic shifter, and a redesigned interior. Safety tech includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and forward-collision warning. Notably, owner satisfaction has been excellent.
| Make & model |
Expires |
MSRP |
Invoice |
Potential savings off MSRP |
| Dodge Challenger SXT |
6/1/15 |
$27,990 |
$27,601 |
$1,810 |
Ford’s redesigned Mustang pays homage to its roots in a modern package with an independent rear suspension. Base models use a 300-hp, 3.7-liter V6, but the big news is the 310-hp, 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder that delivers some punch. And the GT returns with a 5.0-liter V8. We found the slick six-speed manual particularly satisfying, and the automatic works well. Fastback and convertible body styles are available. Handling is agile and balanced, and the ride is firm yet tied down. New features include keyless entry, push-button start, and the Sync infotainment system. In addition to fun, technology brings blind-spot detection with cross-traffic alert. With a few updates coming for the 2016 model year, you should be able to rope a great deal on a current Mustang.
| Make & model |
Expires |
MSRP |
Invoice |
Potential savings off MSRP |
| Ford Mustang EcoBoost |
7/6/15 |
$26,125 |
$25,008 |
$1,259 |
The Genesis Coupe has always shown flashes of potential, but several flaws continue to hold it back. The 3.8-liter V6 engine is powerful and sounds great; the noisy turbocharged four-cylinder has been dropped. The Coupe is sporty and agile, and the communicative and direct steering makes it fun to drive. But the car is let down by its imprecise, clunky manual shifter and very stiff, unsettled ride. Front-seat occupants will find plenty of room, but as in most coupes, the rear seat is very cramped. A backup camera is now available.
The Veloster hatchback has three doors, with the right-side rear one providing access to the tight rear seat. Based on the small Accent, the Veloster’s 138-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder delivers adequate power, and the precise six-speed manual has low-effort throws. A dual-clutch, six-speed automated manual is optional. We got 31-mpg overall from a version with the manual transmission. Moving up to the Turbo gets you a strong 201-hp turbo-four and an available six-speed automatic. Handling is responsive and secure. The ride is quite stiff, but it isn’t punishing. Rear visibility through the split back window is merely adequate at best.
Employing a wonderfully strong and smooth 3.7-liter V6, the Nissan Z delivers quick acceleration and respectable fuel economy. The six-speed manual is a bit notchy but easy to use, and it can match revs on downshifts. Handling is very agile, with quick steering and lots of grip, but somehow the car isn’t as engaging to drive as one would expect. The ride is very stiff and choppy, and road and tire noise are constant. The Z’s well-finished interior is cramped, and visibility is lousy. Convertible and stiffer-riding, higher-performance NISMO versions are available. Changes for 2015 include standard Bluetooth and revised suspension tuning.
2015 Autos Spotlight
Visit the 2015 Autos Spotlight special section for our 2015 Top Picks, Car Brand Report Cards, best and worst new cars, best and worst used cars, used-car reliability, new-car Ratings and road tests, and much more.
Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.
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