2025 Best Performance Sedans in Australia Under $60K

If you’re a car enthusiast who wants serious performance but isn’t ready to spend six figures, 2025 is your year. The Australian market is brimming with performance sedans that cost less than $60,000 and still deliver spine-tingling power, sharp handling, and bold designs. Whether you're chasing turbocharged torque, rear-wheel-drive excitement, or a luxury badge with performance cred, there’s something here for every budget-conscious thrill-seeker.

In this guide, we break down the top performance sedans in Australia under $60K for 2025, based on driving dynamics, powertrains, design, and tech features—without compromising on everyday comfort or value.

What Defines a Performance Sedan in 2025?

Before jumping into the list, let’s define what makes a sedan a performance sedan in 2025:

• Powerful engine: Turbocharged four-cylinder or V6 power is common. Many offer 0–100 km/h in under 7 seconds.
• Sport-tuned suspension: Tighter handling and firmer ride for sharper cornering.
• Responsive steering and brakes: Precision is key to performance.
• Driver-focused tech: Adaptive drive modes, paddle shifters, launch control, etc.
• Sporty design: Aggressive styling, larger wheels, and sometimes a subtle spoiler.

Now let’s dive into the best-performing sedans in this price bracket.

1. Hyundai i30 Sedan N Line Premium – $38,000–$45,000

✅ Engine & Performance

• 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine
• 150 kW / 265 Nm
• 7-speed DCT or 6-speed manual
• 0–100 km/h in ~7.1 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

The N Line version adds genuine performance upgrades while keeping the i30’s practicality. With taut handling, a lively turbo engine, and a dual-clutch gearbox, it delivers true hot-sedan vibes. The Premium trim offers leather, sunroof, and full safety suite.

✅ Best For:

Young drivers wanting a sporty look with reliable punch.

2. Subaru WRX RS Manual – $52,000 (approx.)

✅ Engine & Performance

• 2.4L turbocharged Boxer engine
• 202 kW / 350 Nm
• 6-speed manual
• 0–100 km/h in ~6 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

This rally legend is more refined than ever. The RS variant gets adaptive suspension, Recaro seats, and manual-only thrills. It’s one of the last performance sedans with true AWD and a manual transmission under $60K.

✅ Best For:

Driving enthusiasts who want AWD grip and old-school gear-shifting joy.

3. Skoda Octavia RS – $55,990 Drive-Away

✅ Engine & Performance

• 2.0L turbocharged petrol
• 180 kW / 370 Nm
• 7-speed DSG automatic
• 0–100 km/h in 6.7 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

The Octavia RS continues to punch above its weight. With VW Group engineering, it delivers precise European performance with a roomy interior and large 600L boot. Plus, it’s loaded with tech and safety gear.

✅ Best For:

Euro performance fans who want practicality too.

4. Mazda6 G35 GT SP – $54,990 Drive-Away

✅ Engine & Performance

• 2.5L turbo petrol
• 173 kW / 420 Nm
• 6-speed automatic
• 0–100 km/h in ~6.6 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

One of the best-looking sedans on the market, the Mazda6 GT SP adds serious turbocharged muscle. With RWD-like dynamics and a luxurious interior, it feels more expensive than it is.

✅ Best For:

Drivers who want grand touring vibes on a budget.

5. Kia Cerato GT Sedan – $37,390 Drive-Away

✅ Engine & Performance

• 1.6L turbo petrol
• 150 kW / 265 Nm
• 7-speed dual-clutch auto
• 0–100 km/h in ~6.8 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

The Cerato GT is a sleeper hit. It’s affordable, packed with features (heated/ventilated seats, JBL audio), and offers a properly engaging drive. The DCT gearbox is quick and the suspension is Aussie-tuned.

✅ Best For:

Budget-conscious drivers who still want to go fast.

6. Toyota Camry SL V6 (2024 stock) – $58,000 (runout deals)

✅ Engine & Performance

• 3.5L V6 petrol
• 224 kW / 362 Nm
• 8-speed auto
• 0–100 km/h in ~6 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

Though Toyota has dropped the V6 Camry from 2025, you can still find brand-new 2024 stock in dealerships. This sleeper sedan hauls and handles beautifully while retaining Toyota reliability and value.

✅ Best For:

Drivers wanting V6 power and conservative looks.

7. Peugeot 508 GT Fastback – $59,990 Drive-Away

✅ Engine & Performance

• 1.6L turbo petrol
• 165 kW / 300 Nm
• 8-speed auto
• 0–100 km/h in ~8 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

The French flair is undeniable. The 508 GT Fastback is all about luxury design and fluid road manners. While not the quickest here, it delivers grand touring comfort with a stylish edge.

✅ Best For:

Stylish buyers wanting exclusivity and smooth handling.

8. MG MG5 Essence – $29,990 Drive-Away

✅ Engine & Performance

• 1.5L turbo petrol
• 119 kW / 250 Nm
• 7-speed DCT
• 0–100 km/h in ~8.3 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

Don’t sleep on MG’s newest sedan. The MG5 packs good value, sleek looks, and sporty driving character for well under $30K. Not quite a WRX rival, but great fun for the price.

✅ Best For:

New drivers, value hunters, and urban commuters.

9. Volkswagen Passat 206TSI R-Line (Runout) – $59,990

✅ Engine & Performance

• 2.0L turbo petrol AWD
• 206 kW / 350 Nm
• 6-speed DSG
• 0–100 km/h in ~5.7 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

A surprise addition thanks to runout sales, the Passat 206TSI is a wolf in business attire. Its AWD grip, Euro luxury, and power output make it an understated performer.

✅ Best For:

Luxury lovers who don’t want to shout about it.

10. Chrysler 300 SRT (Used 2022–2023) – $50K–$60K

✅ Engine & Performance

• 6.4L HEMI V8
• 350 kW / 637 Nm
• 8-speed auto
• 0–100 km/h in ~4.5 seconds

✅ Why It’s Great

Yes, Chrysler has left Australia, but if you want real muscle, the SRT is still an icon. It’s not subtle, not efficient, but it is raw V8 fun. Hard to find new, but great second-hand buys exist under $60K.

✅ Best For:

Muscle car fanatics who want power and presence.

Key Comparison Table

Final Thoughts: Affordable Speed Isn’t Dead

While the push toward electrification and SUVs continues, performance sedans remain alive and kicking in Australia—especially in the under $60K category. From the sharp-handling i30 N Line to the brawny WRX and sleeper VW Passat, you’ve got options that suit both budget and driving style.

Each sedan in this list proves that fun doesn’t need to break the bank. Whether you value raw acceleration, daily usability, or European elegance, 2025’s market has a performance sedan that’ll make your heart race.