Tesla's new Roadster won't come cheap. The company's reservation page requires a $50,000 deposit for the Roadster Performance and a $250,000 deposit for the Roadster Thrust with acceleration thrusters. You probably won't put that much money down on a Tesla Roadster, let alone one that can fly. Luckily for drivers, there are still EVs on the market with exciting specs and features that don't cost an arm and a leg.
Here are three electric vehicles you can buy instead of the Roadster that are sporty and powerful.
Budget option for performance EV fans: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a small electric SUV that's designed for performance. It starts at $59,900, which is still pricey, but remains a fraction of the Roadster's estimated price. Furthermore, the Ioniq 5 N offers great value for the money
in terms of specs and features.
Hyundai's performance EV produces 641 horsepower. It goes from 0-60 mph in 3.25 seconds. The Ioniq 5 N comes standard with Drag and Track modes, launch control, Hyundai's N Grin Boost and more.
If you want a practical daily driver that can also double as a performance vehicle, the Ioniq 5 N is a great option.
High performance used option: Tesla Model S Plaid
Tesla may have discontinued the Model S, but that doesn't mean you can't buy one. Depreciation has made the performance electric car more affordable and its Plaid final trim more attainable.
You can get a used Tesla Model S Plaid for under $61,000 from CarMax. It produces an incredible 1,020 horsepower. The Model S Plaid zooms from 0-60 mph in 1.99 seconds.
Tesla's original Model S Plaid had a starting price of around $129,990. Buying a used Model S Plaid gets you a heavily discounted performance EV with insane acceleration. It may be the closest that average drivers can get to a Tesla Roadster in terms of style and acceleration without spending six figures.
Premium option: Lucid Air Grand Touring
Lucid's Air electric car comes in four trims, including the Air Grand Touring. The 2026 Lucid Air Grand Touring starts at $114,900, making it the priciest alternative on our list.
It produces a massive 819 horsepower. The Air Grand Touring trim zooms from 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds, which is quick for its size. Lucid's EV isn't as quick as the more expensive Tesla Roadster, but it has an incredible 480 miles of driving range.
As an expert car reviewer who has tested plenty of EVs, 480 miles of range is exceptional. It makes driving and ownership much easier because owners won't have to start as many charging sessions. Additionally, the Lucid Air Grand Touring includes 20-way power-heated front seats with ventilation and massage, a leather interior and Lucid's DreamDrive advanced driver-assistance system.
Lucid's EV is powerful, luxurious and practical for a performance model. It may be expensive, but it provides a unique ownership experience.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at CSingh@Gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You probably can't afford Tesla's new Roadster. Try these instead
