When you look at all sports cars, one characteristic stands out: performance. Of course, sleek styling and innovative designs also come to mind, but pavement-screaming performance comes first. However, there is a downside to all this power. The stronger the engine, the noisier the drivetrain can be, which can be infuriating. So if you want a quieter sports car, check out these two Consumer Reports-tested models with positive noise ratings.
The only 2 sports cars with positive noise ratings from Consumer Reports
There are some impressive sports cars available in the automaker’s lineup for 2022. But with all that performance comes a lot of grunt and responsibility. When Consumer Reports ranks them all with ratings and scores, only two models stand out with positive noise ratings.
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and 2022 BMW 2 Series earn CR “green” honors for their relatively low noise levels. In addition, both models performed well in road testing, proving that they can be as fast as they are quiet. Their predicted owner satisfaction scores are also remarkable, showing that many drivers love these sports cars.
Prices, specifications and other notable features for both models
The 2022 BMW 2 Series is worth a look in both body styles—four-door Gran Coupe or two-door coupe. You’ll be impressed by the turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, though Consumer Reports suggests the most powerful performer is the M240i xDrive Coupe.
You can buy the 2022 BMW 2 Series for $35,700 to $48,550, making it an affordable choice for a sports car. Other high points on the CR’s list of things you’ll love are responsive handling, quick acceleration (0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, for a BMW), impressive fuel economy for a sports car (EPA-estimated at 31 mpg combined) , comfortable interior, and excellent fit and finish.
The other quiet sports car worth checking out is the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI with its 241-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. A 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds will set you back just $29,880 to $39,130. Estimated fuel economy — 28 mpg combined — is also decent. Other benefits include impressive handling, quick acceleration, responsive braking and a fairly “slippery hand lever,” says CR.
Which sports car has the worst noise rating from Consumer Reports?
Now that you know which two 2022 sports cars earned positive noise ratings from Consumer Reports, you’re probably wondering which model got the worst noise score. It may surprise you to learn that the fan favorite and otherwise highly rated Mazda MX-5 Miata earns the worst marks for noisy driving.
The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata earns points for its starting price of $27,650. But this spirited, nimble sports car also boasts high scores in predicted ownership satisfaction and on its road test. But if noise is an issue for you, avoid this roaring roadster.
Before choosing any sports car, you should consider all the pros and cons, including performance. And while you’re sorting through your must-haves, don’t forget to assess your preferences for quiet travel. If wind, road and engine noise bother you, check out the 2022 BMW 2 Series and 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, two of the quietest sports cars, according to Consumer Reports.
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