This article reviews the latest sales data for popular performance models in the United States up to September 2025, comparing it to last year’s figures and highlighting the most notable changes.
Performance Car Sales Data Comparison 2024 vs 2025 (Units Sold Through September)
| Model | 2025 Sales | 2024 Sales | Year-on-Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW Z4 | 1,603 | 1,471 | +8.9% |
| Chevrolet Corvette | 17,718 | 25,711 | -31% |
| Dodge Charger | 8,943 | 56,764 | -84.2% |
| Ford Mustang | 32,818 | 36,485 | -10% |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | 7,299 | 5,780 | +26% |
| Nissan Z | 4,822 | 2,175 | +121.7% |
| Subaru BRZ | 2,284 | 2,323 | -1.7% |
| Subaru WRX | 8,139 | 13,545 | -39.9% |
| Toyota Supra | 2,009 | 2,329 | -13.7% |
| Toyota GR86 | 8,107 | 9,643 | -15.9% |
| Volkswagen GTI | 5,700 | 8,404 | -32.2% |
| Volkswagen Golf R | 2,684 | 3,109 | -13.7% |
Key Highlights:
-
The BMW Z4, now in its final production year, is experiencing increased sales thanks in part to a manual transmission M40i model.
-
Chevrolet Corvette sales have dropped 31 percent despite new ZR1 and ZR1X model launches, possibly due to buyers awaiting updated 2026 versions.
-
The Dodge Charger shows the sharpest decline—84.2 percent—as this generation replaces two older models but has yet to ramp production and has faced mixed reception over its engine changes.
-
The Ford Mustang remains relatively strong but is down 10 percent, despite Ford’s price incentives.
-
Mazda MX-5 Miata sales rise by 26 percent, supported by a refreshed model and a special 35th-anniversary edition, although tariff hikes could affect prices.
-
The Nissan Z sees a remarkable surge in sales up over 120 percent, driven by attractive pricing and strong incentives.
-
Subaru’s BRZ and WRX both suffer significant sales drops, the WRX particularly impacted by a steep price increase.
-
The iconic Toyota Supra’s sales are slightly down, now outpaced by the Nissan Z.
-
Volkswagen’s GTI and Golf R both see substantial declines with dropped manual options and rising prices.
Performance Model Sales Trends Insights
-
Tariffs and Pricing: Import tariffs and inflation have pushed prices higher. Some models like the Miata face tariffs that could push final sales prices above key affordability thresholds.
-
Transition to Electrification: Many buyers remain cautious amid the shift from traditional engines to hybrids and electric models. For instance, Dodge’s transition to turbocharged six-cylinder and electric power disturbed demand.
-
Model Lifecycle Effects: Several models like the Z4 and Supra are near their final production or awaiting replacements, weighing on current sales numbers.
-
Buyer Preferences Shifting: Enthusiasts are gravitating towards models that strike a balance between traditional performance and modern features, favoring affordability and usable performance.
Conclusion
The performance car market in 2025 reflects the challenges of a broader automotive industry in transition. While some icon models like the Nissan Z and Mazda MX-5 Miata continue to grow, many others are suffering sales declines a sign that the enthusiast market is cautious and price-sensitive. Buyers and manufacturers will have to navigate shifting preferences, rising costs, and changing regulations as this segment evolves in the coming years.
