Commuting to work and running errands around town can be a drag, and while transforming that into a thrilling drag race might be a bit overambitious, it’s more than possible to fun a car that is both enjoyable to drive and practical. For example, a Ford or Honda sedan can be affordable and utilitarian, but they also have a certain sense of playfulness and engagement that is just waiting to be taken advantage of.
Priorities are important
There is a reason people say “work hard, play hard.” Life is about balance, after all. This is why it is important to know what you need from a vehicle. If you have a family, then a crossover or SUV will likely fit the bill thanks to its larger cargo capacity and spacious rear seats. If you just need a cheap way to get to and from work, then maybe something like a Honda Civic Sedan would be better. You could even go the coupe route if you want to lean a little more into the fun side of things, like a Ford Mustang or Chevy Camaro.
Unlike true sports cars, these ponies have a lot more practicality with their usable trunk space, but they still have oodles of horsepower to satiate that need for speed. The Civic Si from Honda is a great example of an everyday car tweaked for enjoyability, and it even lets you trade out your automatic gearbox for a manual. The secret is to never compromise too much in any one direction. Take the Mazda Miata, for instance. At its extremely affordable MSRP, it is easily one of the most enjoyable sports cars, but it has no back seat and the trunk is a joke.
Know who to trust
Some automakers have more skill when it comes to designing cars meant for the everyday driver. They know what people need, and it’s not always excessive luxury like you’d find in a BMW 3 Series or Volvo V90. Kia and Hyundai, for example, make some of the best cars for everyday life and they give you peace of mind by offering unbeatable warranties to back up their products. If you prefer to buy locally in the USA, then Ford and Chevrolet are your best bets. Although, Cadillac has some good choices, too, like the CT5. However, it’s one of the more expensive brands.
Like it or not, the eastern automakers seem to have nailed what Americans want and they know how to deliver. The Mazda 3 Sedan or CX-30 crossover are both great examples. They look great, drive well, and still manage to give you a full suite of safety features, cozy cabins, and affordable prices and maintenance fees. Toyota, too, makes some of the most beloved cars in the states, but it has a clearer line between its everyday cruisers and its fun-loving speedsters.
Some worthwhile considerations
It’s all well and good to talk in hypotheticals, but there comes a time when you have to take a look at the real thing. Here are some of the most enjoyable cars to drive that double up as daily commuter/family models:
- Ford Mustang
- Dodge Charger
- Honda Civic Si
- Subaru WRX
- Mazda CX-5
- Volkswagen Golf GTI
- Chevrolet Camaro