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Are you not feeling Dodge’s retro-inspired muscle car but still want a cool vehicle with sports credentials? No problem. The market can deliver; check out these four Dodge Challenger alternatives you can snag for under $35,000, like the Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium or the Subaru BRZ Limited. 

  • Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium
  • Chevrolet Camaro 3LT
  • Subaru BRZ
  • Toyota GR86
  • Volkswagen Golf GTI

How much is a Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium?

The 2022 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium starts at around $33,890. The 310-horsepower EcoBoost isn’t just affordable; it’s fast. According to iSeeCars, a Mustang EcoBoost can hit 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars at that price point. Moreover, potential owners can opt for the High Performance package and add 20 extra horses to the 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder mill. 

Furthermore, the EcoBoost Premium packs luxury that the base car doesn’t have, like an 8-inch touchscreen with Sync 3 and ventilated seats. It’s a solid alternative to a Dodge Challenger SXT and GT.  

Is the Chevrolet Camaro 3LT a good alternative to the Dodge Challenger?

While the Chevrolet Camaro 3LT doesn’t quite get the V8 treatment, it’s still a good alternative to the Dodge Challenger SXT or GT. The Camaro is swift and affordable, available with either a 275-horsepower turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine or a 335-horsepower 3.6L V6. The Camaro 3LT starts at around $33,695, putting it on par with a Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium. Moreover, the 3LT packs premium features compared to lesser Camaros, like a heads-up display and a Bose sound system. 

The Chevrolet Camaro 3LT is a great Dodge Challenger alternative, just like the EcoBoost Premium.
Chevrolet Camaro | General Motors

How much does a Subaru BRZ cost?

The 2022 Subaru BRZ Premium starts at around $29,615, and the BRZ Limited at about $32,115. Furthermore, while the Subaru BRZ is smaller, lighter, and less powerful than the Dodge Challenger SXT, it’s a solid alternative. First, the diminutive BRZ Limited packs a manual transmission and enthusiastic driver’s car credentials. Also, the BRZ’s Limited trim packs nicer heated seats than the Premium and steering-responsive headlights. 

The Subaru BRZ Limited is a great option for folks who want an alternative to the Dodge Challenger.
Subaru BRZ | Subaru

Is the Toyota GR86 a good Dodge Challenger alternative?

While the Toyota GR86 is similar to the Subaru BRZ in most metrics, it deserves its own spot on this list of Dodge Challenger SXT and GT alternatives. The GR86 packs the same 228-horsepower four-cylinder boxer engine as the BRZ but with stiffer suspension characteristics. Better yet, the GR86 also offers a row-your-own three-pedal manual setup so enthusiasts can enjoy their driver’s car. Also, with a starting price of $31,595, a range-topping GR86 Premium is an excellent alternative to a Dodge Challenger. 

How much does a Golf GTI cost?

What? How could you consider a Volkswagen Golf GTI an alternative to a Dodge Challenger? Well, with a starting price of around $30,975, the Golf GTI S is an attainable hot hatchback. Moreover, Car and Driver tested a 2022 Golf GTI and coaxed it to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, or about as swift as a Ford Mustang EcoBoost. However, unlike the EcoBoost or the Challenger, the GTI has a practical five-door hatchback construction. 

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).