Top 10 Sports Sedans 2022 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2022 model year, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is our Best Overall sports sedan — a 668-hp supercharged V8 four-door that still offers a six-speed manual, all for a starting MSRP of $84,990. It blends genuine supercar pace with usable rear seats and a daily-driveable ride that the European rivals can't quite match at the price.

Our Best Value pick is the redesigned 2022 Subaru WRX, which delivers standard all-wheel drive, a turbo boxer engine, and a real manual gearbox from a starting MSRP of $29,605. Below the two headliners sit eight more 2022 standouts, ranked on how they actually perform, live with you, and make you feel.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each 2022 sedan across six categories, drawing on published road tests and instrumented numbers from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and U.S. News:

• Performance & handling — 30%: measured 0-60 mph, grip, braking, and steering feel.
• Daily usability — 20%: ride quality, rear-seat room, trunk space, and visibility.
• Value — 15%: what the starting MSRP buys versus direct rivals.
• Interior & tech — 15%: materials, infotainment, and driver-assist features.
• Reliability & ownership — 10%: brand track record and running costs.
• Character — 10%: the intangible that makes you want to keep driving.

Every price below is a real 2022 starting MSRP, and every spec is drawn from the 2022 model year specifically — not later updates.

1. Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $84,990 | Best for: Buyers who want supercar pace, four doors, and a clutch pedal.

The CT5-V Blackwing is the most complete sports sedan of 2022. Its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 makes a thunderous 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft of torque, routed to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed Tremec manual (a 10-speed automatic is optional). Cadillac quotes a 0-60 mph sprint of 3.4 seconds, yet the magnetic-ride suspension keeps the car composed and quiet enough for a commute.

The cabin is roomier than the German rivals', and the V8 soundtrack is unforgettable.

Pros:

• 668 hp from a charismatic supercharged V8.
• Standard six-speed manual in an era when most rivals dropped it.
• Genuine daily comfort thanks to magnetic ride control.
• Roomy rear seat and usable trunk for a true four-door.

Cons:

• Interior plastics trail Audi and Mercedes at this price.
• Fuel economy is thirsty when you use the power.

Verdict: The 2022 CT5-V Blackwing offers the widest performance-to-livability bandwidth of any sedan here, and a manual V8 makes it an instant modern classic.

2. BMW M3 Competition xDrive

Starting MSRP: $73,200 | Best for: All-weather drivers who want the sharpest tool short of a track car.

The G80 M3 Competition xDrive pairs a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six making 503 horsepower with an eight-speed automatic and BMW's switchable xDrive all-wheel drive. Car and Driver clocked the 0-60 mph dash at roughly 3.4 seconds. The chassis is endlessly adjustable, the brakes are tireless, and an available drift-friendly rear-drive mode keeps purists happy.

The polarizing grille aside, this is a hugely capable machine. A rear-drive, 473-hp manual base M3 was also offered for $69,900.

Pros:

• 503 hp with launch-control traction from xDrive.
• Track-grade brakes and chassis that stay composed lap after lap.
• Rear-drive mode for drivers who want tail-out fun.
• Strong everyday refinement for a hardcore sedan.

Cons:

• Divisive front-end styling.
• Options inflate the price quickly.

Verdict: The 2022 M3 Competition xDrive is the benchmark for all-weather sport-sedan precision.

3. Mercedes-AMG C63 S

Starting MSRP: $76,250 | Best for: Buyers who want the last of the V8 AMG C-Class.

The 2022 C63 S marks the final year of the hand-built twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 in the C-Class before AMG switched to a four-cylinder hybrid. It produces 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque through a nine-speed multi-clutch automatic to the rear wheels, with a 0-60 mph time near 3.8 seconds.

It is loud, lavish, and dramatic in a way its successor simply isn't, which makes the 2022 car a future collectible.

Pros:

• Hand-assembled 4.0-liter V8 — the last of its kind here.
• Operatic exhaust note that defines the AMG experience.
• Plush, tech-rich interior with MBUX infotainment.
• Collector appeal as the final V8 C63.

Cons:

• Firm ride over broken pavement.
• Rear seat is tighter than rivals.

Verdict: The 2022 C63 S is a send-off worth owning for the sound and the soul of its V8 alone.

4. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

Starting MSRP: $78,830 | Best for: Driving enthusiasts who prize steering feel above all.

The Giulia Quadrifoglio remains the steering-feel champion of the class. Its Ferrari-derived twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 makes 505 horsepower and 443 lb-ft, sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic for a sub-four-second 0-60 mph run. The chassis is telepathic, the carbon-fiber driveshaft trims weight, and the whole car feels alive in a way nothing else here matches.

You simply have to accept Alfa's reputation for fussiness.

Pros:

• 505 hp with the best steering feel in the segment.
• Featherweight, eager chassis that rewards skill.
• Genuine Italian character and exotic engine pedigree.
• Aggressive, beautiful styling inside and out.

Cons:

• Below-average reliability reputation.
• Infotainment lags rivals.

Verdict: The 2022 Giulia Quadrifoglio is the enthusiast's heart-over-head choice, and worth every quirk.

5. BMW M340i xDrive

Starting MSRP: $56,700 | Best for: Buyers who want 90% of the M3 for far less money.

The M340i xDrive is the value-minded sweet spot of BMW's 3 Series range. Its turbocharged 3.0-liter B58 inline-six delivers 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft through an eight-speed automatic and xDrive all-wheel drive, good for a 0-60 mph time around 4.1 seconds.

It rides better than the full M3, returns respectable fuel economy, and gives up surprisingly little real-world pace, making it the smart commuter's performance pick.

Pros:

• 382 hp with effortless all-weather traction.
• Excellent ride-handling balance for daily use.
• Strong fuel economy for the performance.
• Lower price than the full-fat M3.

Cons:

• No manual gearbox offered.
• Lacks the M3's track ceiling.

Verdict: The 2022 M340i xDrive is the practical enthusiast's bargain — nearly an M3 for thousands less.

6. Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

Starting MSRP: $59,990 | Best for: Drivers who want a manual, rear-drive compact bruiser.

The smaller CT4-V Blackwing punches well above its price. A twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 sends 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual (a 10-speed auto is optional), with a 0-60 mph sprint near 3.8 seconds. Magnetic ride and a tidy footprint make it the most tossable car Cadillac builds, and it undercuts the German compacts while offering a clutch pedal they no longer do.

Pros:

• 472 hp with a standard manual and rear drive.
• Magnetic ride delivers daily comfort and grip.
• Sharp, compact handling that loves back roads.
• Aggressive pricing versus German rivals.

Cons:

• Cabin design feels dated.
• Tight rear-seat space.

Verdict: The 2022 CT4-V Blackwing is the affordable manual muscle sedan enthusiasts have been begging for.

7. Audi RS3

Starting MSRP: $58,900 | Best for: All-weather drivers who love a unique engine note.

The all-new 2022 RS3 carries on Audi's beloved turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder, now making 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and Quattro all-wheel drive. A new torque-splitting rear differential adds a drift mode, and the 0-60 mph time is a stunning 3.6 seconds.

Few engines sound like this warbling five-pot, and few compacts launch this hard in any weather.

Pros:

• 401 hp from a one-of-a-kind five-cylinder.
• Quattro AWD plus a new torque-vectoring rear axle.
• Brutal all-weather acceleration.
• Drift mode for controlled tail-out fun.

Cons:

• Firm ride in Dynamic mode.
• Pricey once optioned.

Verdict: The 2022 RS3 marries a magical engine to all-weather pace — a true sleeper weapon.

8. Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance

Starting MSRP: $56,500 | Best for: Buyers who want a naturally aspirated V8 with Lexus reliability.

The new-for-2022 IS 500 stuffs a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 under the hood of the IS, making 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic. The 0-60 mph time is 4.4 seconds, and the quad exhaust sings an old-school V8 tune that turbo rivals can't replicate.

Add Lexus's blue-chip reliability and this is the dependable enthusiast's pick.

Pros:

• Naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 — a rare delight in 2022.
• Glorious high-rev exhaust note.
• Lexus reliability and resale strength.
• Standard limited-slip diff and adaptive dampers.

Cons:

• Dated infotainment system.
• Tight rear seat and small trunk.

Verdict: The 2022 IS 500 is the bulletproof V8 sedan for drivers who value sound and longevity.

9. Genesis G70 3.3T Sport

Starting MSRP: $42,100 | Best for: Luxury-leaning buyers who want value and refinement.

The G70 3.3T is the value-luxury overachiever. Its twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 makes 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft through an eight-speed automatic, with standard rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive for $2,000. The 0-60 mph time is right around 5.0 seconds.

A handsome cabin, long warranty, and genuine handling chops make it feel far more expensive than it is.

Pros:

• 365 hp with rear- or all-wheel-drive choice.
• Upscale, well-built interior for the money.
• Industry-leading warranty and ownership perks.
• Sharp handling that surprises rivals.

Cons:

• Thirsty V6 fuel economy.
• Small trunk for the class.

Verdict: The 2022 G70 3.3T Sport delivers near-luxury polish and real pace at a value price.

10. Subaru WRX 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $29,605 | Best for: Budget enthusiasts who want all-weather grip and a manual.

The fully redesigned 2022 WRX is the value champion of the segment. Its turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four makes 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft, sent through a standard six-speed manual (a CVT is optional) and Subaru's standard all-wheel drive. The 0-60 mph time lands near 5.5 seconds with the manual, and the rally-bred chassis shrugs off bad weather and rough roads alike.

Nothing else here costs so little while being this much fun in any condition.

Pros:

• Standard all-wheel drive and a manual for under $30k.
• Rally-bred chassis that thrives in any weather.
• Practical sedan packaging and big trunk.
• Outstanding value versus every rival here.

Cons:

• Interior materials feel budget-grade.
• Polarizing plastic-clad exterior styling.

Verdict: The 2022 WRX is the most fun-per-dollar sports sedan of the year, full stop.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Sports Sedan

• Drivetrain match: choose all-wheel drive if you face snow or rain; rear-wheel drive rewards dry-road drivers who want feel.
• Transmission: confirm whether a manual is still offered — in 2022 only the Cadillacs, WRX, and Elantra N gave you a clutch.
• Tire and brake budget: high-output sedans chew through performance tires and pads, so factor running costs in.
• Ride quality: test the adaptive dampers in their comfort setting before assuming you can live with the firmest mode.
• Insurance and fuel: 500-plus-hp V8s carry premiums and thirst that smaller turbos avoid.
• Resale and reliability: Lexus and Subaru historically hold value and stay dependable; exotic-feel rivals may not.

One honest note: peak horsepower matters less than marketing implies. Chassis balance, steering feel, brake stamina, and how a car behaves at legal speeds shape daily enjoyment far more than a headline 0-60 number.

FAQ

What is the best overall sports sedan of 2022? The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing earns our top spot for blending 668-hp supercar pace, a standard manual, and genuine four-door comfort at $84,990.

Which 2022 sports sedan is the best value? The redesigned Subaru WRX at $29,605 offers standard all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual for less than half the price of the premium picks.

Which 2022 sports sedans still came with a manual transmission? The CT5-V Blackwing, CT4-V Blackwing, Subaru WRX, and Hyundai Elantra N all offered a manual gearbox for 2022, a rarity by then.

Is the 2022 Mercedes-AMG C63 S worth buying used? Yes — 2022 was the final year of the twin-turbo V8 before the hybrid four-cylinder arrived, giving the car genuine collector appeal.

Should I pick all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive? Choose all-wheel drive (M3 xDrive, RS3, WRX, M340i) if you drive in snow or rain; rear-wheel drive (IS 500, G70 RWD, both Blackwings) maximizes steering feel on dry roads.

Which 2022 sports sedan is most reliable? The Lexus IS 500 and Subaru WRX carry the strongest dependability reputations in this group.

Bottom Line

The 2022 model year was a golden moment for the sports sedan, capturing the last great V8s and the first wave of electrified performance four-doors. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing stands above the field as our Best Overall for delivering supercar muscle, a manual, and daily livability in one package, while the Subaru WRX takes Best Value by making all-weather, stick-shift fun attainable under $30,000.

Whether your priority is track precision, V8 theater, or maximum thrills per dollar, this list points you to the 2022 sedan that fits — buy on driving feel, not just the horsepower figure on the window sticker.

Sources

• Kelley Blue Book — 2022 BMW M3 specs and pricing: https://www.kbb.com/bmw/m3/2022/specs/
• The Drive — 2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing review: https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/2022-cadillac-ct5-v-blackwing-review-specs-options-price-new-cars-driving
• Cadillac Newsroom — V-Series Blackwings pricing and specs: https://news.cadillac.com/newsroom.detail.html/Pages/news/us/en/2021/aug/0810-blackwing.html
• Autoevolution — 2022 Mercedes-AMG C63 S specifications: https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/mercedes-amg-c63-s-amg-e-performance-2022.html
• Motor1 — 2022 Audi RS3 review and specs: https://www.motor1.com/reviews/634277/2022-audi-rs3-review/
• Edmunds — 2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio specs: https://www.edmunds.com/alfa-romeo/giulia/2022/quadrifoglio/features-specs/
• Cars.com — Redesigned 2022 Subaru WRX prices start at $30,100: https://www.cars.com/articles/redesigned-2022-subaru-wrx-prices-start-at-30100-447263/
• Lexus USA Newsroom — 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance: https://pressroom.lexus.com/2022-lexus-is-500-f-sport-performance-the-is-sports-sedan-unleashed/
• Motor Authority — 2022 Hyundai Elantra N price and specs: https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1129768_2022-hyundai-elantra-n-price-specs-review-photos-info
• Edmunds — 2022 Genesis G70 3.3T specs and features: https://www.edmunds.com/genesis/g70/2022/st-401893083/features-specs/
• Edmunds — 2022 BMW i4 M50 specs and features: https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/i4/2022/st-401924494/features-specs/

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