When it comes to pairing sleek styling with powerful engines, there are few options as accessible as the typical sports coupé. These cars marry the mechanical sensibility of a muscle car with the practical space and interior room found in most traditional coupés or saloons. Amid all of the models available from various manufacturers, there are four sports coupés that stand head and shoulders above the others in terms of dependability and affordability.

1. Subaru WRX STI

Subaru is most commonly identified as the company that sells all-wheel drive coupés, saloons and crossovers to customers around the world. Its cars are typically known for sticking to function over form. But in the case of the WRX STI, the company breaks out of its traditional mould and pairs a sporty exterior design with a great engine and an even better price tag.

The WRX STI comes with a 305-horsepower engine, making it easily one of the most powerful powerplants on the market in this class. The exterior design features a handsome spoiler with inspired detailing and economic curves. The WRX STI can be purchased by consumers for just over $30,000, making it as affordable as it is powerful.

2. Nissan 370Z

Nissan has long been a leader in the sports coupé market, with its popular Nissan Silvia platform powering nearly four decades of sports coupés around the world. Its most recent creation is the 370Z, which produces 332 horsepower from its robust engine. It pairs that raw power with an aerodynamic shape that is unlike anything else currently on the market. This pseudo racer comes with an innovative SynchroRev Match transmission, further boosting its appeal and contributing to a smooth experience on the road.

Best of all, the Nissan 370Z is available for just over $30,000. That puts it on par with Subaru's WRX STI and, with more horsepower, makes it a better overall buy.

3. Dodge Charger R/T

Dodge, as a company, has been through a number of phases. It was once a big deal for sports car enthusiasts, and then became a go-to automaker for trucks and sport utility vehicles. The company's latest incarnation is one that mixes both pursuits, notably in the revival of the Dodge Charger model. The company's most storied sports coupé line was brought back late last decade and manages to put out 370 horsepower while costing just under $29,000.

While its power on the road is nothing short of a marvel, its creature comforts rate well, too. An eight-inch entertainment and GPS system is standard with the R/T, along with premium speakers and iPod compatibility. For a stylish and powerful way to cruise down the road, there's nothing quite like the Dodge Charger.

4. Hyundai Genesis Coupé V6

Hyundai's reputation in the marketplace is one of discounted automobiles, sensible styling, and moderate on-road performance. Buyers might be surprised to learn then that the Hyundai Genesis can produce 348 horsepower while costing consumers only about $27,000 at a car dealer. That's pretty impressive on its own, but this sports coupé's styling begs to be discussed.

The Genesis most closely resembles the Nissan 370Z, itself the successor of the legendary Nissan Silvia platform. It pairs that bullet-like, aerodynamic shape with LED head- and taillights, along with tinted windows and a seven-inch touchscreen navigation system inside. Interior lighting is stylish and low-key and the car definitely has serious appeal.

Lots of Great, Affordable Sports Coupés

While the sports coupé is often associated with lofty price tags, the four models mentioned above are proof that powerful cars can come with impressively low price tags. There are no features sacrificed here: buyers will get great power, great affordability and a great ride, all without breaking the bank. Best of all, even the interior features in these models are on-point, with touchscreen navigation and entertainment, premium sound systems, bucket seating, and soft touch dashboards.

When it comes to sports coupés, the 21st century is essentially rewriting the rules. Car manufacturers are delivering more power for less money, more interior comforts at a greater discount, and more appeal without sacrificing a single detail. For consumers, this new age of affordable, powerful sports couples, is a serious win-win.

2 Oct 2012