The Top 35 Sleeper Cars in the USA – Stealth Powerhouses for 2023/2024

21 min read

13 Nov

13Nov

Today, we venture into the world of sleeper cars, where unassuming exteriors hide extraordinary speed. Also known as Q-cars in the UK, these high-performance vehicles often disguise themselves as everyday commuters, originating from platforms associated with non-athletic classes. Whether a deliberately neglected "beater" or a standard-looking sedan, sleepers defy expectations by packing a punch under the hood.

This article explores the fastest sleeper cars available in the USA, focusing on factory stock models with often underestimated potential.

Entering the realm where appearances deceive and acceleration surprises, below is the ultimate list of the top 35 fastest sleeper cars to date, each from the world's regular car manufacturers. We encourage you to get involved and use the comment section below this article if you know a sleeper car or truck that should be on this list.

35. 2008 Buick LaCrosse Super Sedan

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 5.9 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 14.4 Seconds

^{Photo credit: IFCAR via Wikimedia}

The 2008 LaCrosse Super possessed a distinct character from its brand relatives. Powered by a 5.3-liter V8, the LaCrosse Super balances a quieter exhaust note with a smooth launch, ultimately delivering a grown-up driving experience.

While it shares DNA with the Impala SS and Grand Prix GXP, the LaCrosse Super stood out with a muted yet powerful presence. Buick shod it with 235/50R18 Michelin all-season tires, along with a controlled torque steer.

34. 2016 Honda Accord Touring Sedan

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 5.7 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 14.3 Seconds

^{Photo credit: Davis Janis via Wikimedia}

The 2016 Honda Accord Touring turned out far more than your average family sedan. With a refreshing update, including enhanced suspension tuning and advanced technology supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this MY Accord sedan earned an "A" rating from Edmunds.

The 2016 Honda Accord Touring combined responsive handling, a spacious interior, and top-notch safety features. Customers chose between four-cylinder trims (LX, Sport, EX, EX-L) or the robust 3.5-liter V6 propelling the EX-L and Touring trims.

The Touring, the pinnacle of the lineup, boasts 19-inch wheels, LED headlights, Honda Sensing features, and luxurious additions like heated rear seats.

33. 2008 Saab Turbo X

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 5.7 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 14.3 Seconds

^{Photo credit: Magnus Back via Wikimedia}

The 2008 Saab Turbo X is a limited-edition marvel that outshines even the Aero as Saab's premier 9-3 model. Limited to 600 units in the US, this four-door sedan and five-door wagon wear a Jet Black Metallic exterior, paying homage to Saab's turbo legacy.

Under the hood, a robust turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 powers the Turbo X with 280 horsepower, 25 more than the Aero, achieved through an increased turbo boost to 11.6 psi. The thoroughly upgraded suspension felt more rigid, while the body lowered by nearly half an inch.

With enlarged brake rotors, carbon-fiber-like interior trim, and a distinctive retro boost gauge, the Turbo X promises a thrilling driving experience. You can enjoy the thrill with the standard six-speed manual transmission or opt for the six-speed automatic at an additional cost of $1,350.

32. 2017 Lincoln MKZ 3.0T AWD

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 5.0 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.5 Seconds

^{Photo credit: Mike Angels via YouTube}

The 2017 Lincoln MKZ 3.0T AWD represented a refined evolution from Lincoln's recent past. Despite shedding its generic visage in favor of a distinctive appearance complete with a redesigned grille and headlights reminiscent of a squished Jaguar XJ, the average Joe could never guess just how brisk this Lincoln is.

That’s because under the MKZ 3.0T’s hood is the exclusive 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6, delivering an impressive 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque with AWD. The engine leaped from its Fusion Sport counterpart and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, giving the MKZ 3.0T enough oomph to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds.

31. 2011 Maybach 62S

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 5.2 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.0 Seconds

The 2011 Maybach 62S flaunts stately size and opulent features, combining German precision with unrivaled luxury and technology. While it competes with the Rolls-Royce Phantom, the Maybach stands out with its restrained aesthetic (not that it was supposed to be athletic in the first place) and focus on business-like elegance.

The 62S, boasting an additional 16 horsepower for a total of 620 hp, got motivation from a twin-turbocharged V12 power mill. Both the 62 and 62S promise a swift journey, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in the mid-5-second range.

30. 2004 Subaru Forester 2.5XT

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 5.2
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.6

The 2004 Subaru Forester 2.5XT is either a Super Sleeper or a turbocharged revelation invigorating the small SUV segment. Unveiled with a turbocharger boosting horsepower to 210 and torque to 235 lb-ft, this high-performance Forester signals its potency with distinctive features like a functional hood scoop for intercooler air intake, six-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, body-color door handles, aluminum-finish roof rails, and a single-outlet chrome tailpipe.

None of that would alert the clueless, though. Recognizable as the hi-po Forester 2.5XT, it offers a choice between a standard five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission. As Subaru embraced turbocharged power, the 2.5XT not only enhances the Forester's appeal but also underscores Subaru's commitment to joining the horsepower cold war.

29. 2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.9 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.6 Seconds

^{Photo credit: Bull-Doser via Wikimedia}

The 2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD was nothing short of a resilient response to its predecessor’s challenges. Despite finding itself as one of America's least popular sedans, Acura dug in and invested in a restyled and retuned model, making it the marque’s most powerful four-door with 377 total horsepower.

Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 and three electric motors, the RLX Sport Hybrid boasts Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). Its hybrid system mirrored the NSX supercar, and the sedan featured torque vectoring for precise handling.

28. 2012 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R-Spec

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.9 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.5 Seconds

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R-Spec sedan inherited the legacy of its predecessors, featuring a 5.0-liter V8 engine with direct-injection technology. The engine was good for 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque, although gearheads wouldn’t forgive the reluctant gearbox that ultimately mitigated the engine rev.

Critics noted the hesitant eight-speed automatic transmission as a cog on the wheel to the true potential of the V8. So, while the Genesis sedan maintained its refined design and luxury features, it fell short of delivering the expected sporty performance associated with the R-Spec badge.

It did offer a sportier suspension and larger 19-inch wheels, and many could never guess the luxury family sedan hid over 400 ponies in its belly.

27. 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.6 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.1 Seconds

Behold the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP – a four-door Corvette experience that fulfilled American dreams with sharp steering, responsive Brembo brakes, balanced handling, and a classy interior, all at a price undercutting comparable BMWs by $20,000.

Regrettably, the GXP made landfall during a challenging period for the US car market, as GM faced a looming cash crisis. Despite the timing, the G8 GXP made its mark as the most powerful stock Pontiac ever, featuring a 415-hp, 6.2-liter LS3 V8 derived from the Corvette's engine.

Paired with a six-speed automatic or a six-speed Tremec manual, the GXP offered a memorable driving experience. Notably, the manual version introduced a first-to-fourth-gear skip-shift system, aiming to save fuel despite its gas-guzzler penalty. Through its peculiar challenges, the G8 GXP remains a powerful reminder of Pontiac's performance legacy.

26. 2016 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.5 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.0 Seconds

Though a proper sleeper car, the 2016 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 was a turbocharged marvel that, unlike many luxury cars, delivered on the promise of performance and efficiency.

The Q50, often dubbed "the Japanese BMW," redefined itself for 2016 with a redesigned exterior inspired by Infiniti's Essence concept. For this model year, the automaker replaced the familiar 3.7-liter V6 with three all-new turbocharged engines. The lineup includes a 2.0-liter four-cylinder targeting the BMW 320i and the star of the show – the new VR-series V6.

This 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine comes in two tunes: 300 horsepower and 295 pounds-feet or the impressive 400 horsepower and 350 pounds-feet. The Q50 Red Sport 400 paired the V6 with a seven-speed automatic transmission. All four engines offer the option for all-wheel drive.

Related Reading: Here Are 20 Of The Rarest Cars The World Has Ever Seen

25. 2014 Chevrolet SS

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.5
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.9

Even with the SS designation, the oomph to vroom from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds was beyond what even Corvette fans would expect from a factory Chevy family sedan. The 2014 Chevrolet SS was, in fact, a speed demon blending performance and luxury in a “sleeping” package.

Outshining its competition, it offered sports sedan handling, a spacious interior, and competitive pricing. The only hangup was, perhaps, the oddly shaped steering wheel. Powered by a 415-hp 6.2-liter LS3 V8, the automatic parking assist, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and more driver-aid features ensured the sleeper car didn’t “surprise” the driver.

While it carries a higher base price, the SS includes premium features like a head-up display, hands-free keyless access, HID headlights, 19-inch wheels, and an eight-inch touchscreen navigation system.

24. 2017 Volkswagen Golf R

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.4 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.1 Seconds

As is the Golf tradition, the 2017 Volkswagen Golf R seamlessly combined thrilling performance with comfort and convenience. With 292 horsepower leaping from its 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, this hatchback delivers impressive power, exceptional braking, and precise handling.

The standard inclusion of the Golf R Driver Assistance package enhances safety features for an all-encompassing driving experience.

Surpassing its GTI counterpart, the Golf R accelerates effortlessly, reaching 60 mph in an impressive 4.4 seconds with the DSG automatic and launch control. With all-wheel drive eliminating torque steer, the Golf R delivers a captivating performance that sets it apart in the hatchback segment.

23. 2020 MINI Cooper Countryman John Cooper Works ALL4

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.4 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.1 Seconds

The 2020 MINI Cooper Countryman John Cooper Works ALL4 signaled the moment when the iconic Mini brand crept ever so subtly into the compact crossover SUV country. While it did an excellent job keeping its distinctive “I’m just the Bimmer’s mini” looks, the top-tier John Cooper Works edition was no “mini,” thanks to a significant power boost for the 2020 model year.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine now roared with 301 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, a significant increase from the previous year's 228 hp. More good news about this sleeper car is that the fuel economy remained surprisingly reasonable despite the power surge.

It posted 23 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, and that’s if you push it the “gearhead” way. Go easy on the throttle, and you could get the efficiency closer to 25 in the city and 32 on the highway. The MINI Countryman drank premium fuel, though.

22. 2008 Toyota Tundra SR5 TRD Supercharged 5.7L Regular Cab

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.4 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 13.0 Seconds

^{Photo credit: MotorTrend}

The 2008 Toyota Tundra SR5 TRD Supercharged was a bold experiment in the audacious muscle truck arena. Inspired by the likes of Ford's SVT F-150 Lightning and Dodge's Ram SRT10, Toyota decided to give the Tundra a thorough in-house mechanical makeover.

The star of the show is a Roots-type supercharger, elevating the truck's robust 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 to a staggering 504 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque. This Tundra, playfully nicknamed the "TundraStruck," features additional enhancements such as a dual-exhaust system, a big-brake kit, performance-tuned shocks, revised springs, and a rear anti-roll bar.

The lowered stance, down by 2.0 inches up front and 2.5 inches in the back, added a touch of bad-assitude to the SR5 TRD.

It didn’t look much different from the Tundra pickup everyone knew, and not even the forged and polished 22-inch TRD wheels wrapped in substantial 285/35 performance rubber could’ve betrayed its capacity to reach 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Indeed, this Tundra was a muscle truck where there are muscle cars and a sleeper truck where there are sleeper cars.

21. 2012 Chrysler 300C SRT8

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.3 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.6 Seconds

The 2012 Chrysler 300C SRT8 was a modern reenactment of the American tradition of rolling sculptures with powerful V8 mills. Thanks to the emissions and efficiency chase, the lines have blurred between American and imported cars. So, the Chrysler 300C SRT8 reported for duty dressed and armed as an unabashed American muscle.

Blending the "dress" and the "arms" gave birth to a bonafide sleeper car. It was 2012, and here was a literal muscle car dressed like a 4-door full-size luxury sedan cradling a 6.4-liter SRT "HEMI" V8 that made a vocal 470 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 470 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm.

The torque increase is palpable, manifesting in assertive acceleration that demands respect. It was a salute to the American muscle tradition and a middle finger to the do-gooder imports.

20. 2015 Range Rover Sport SVR

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.2 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.7 Seconds

The 2015 Range Rover Sport SVR was Land Rover's fastest creation, born from a desire for track-worthy performance. It stood on the Range Rover Sport Supercharged's shoulders, boasting a potent 5.0-liter supercharged V8.

This supercharged V8 makes an impressive 542 horsepower thanks to updates like increased supercharger boost and refined ECU tuning. Clocking 8 minutes and 14 seconds at the Nurburgring, the 2015 Range Rover Sport SVR was as good as any.

The SUV retained the Sport Supercharged's eight-speed automatic and 4x4 powertrain but with faster shifts and improved programming for dynamic driving. Here is a pinnacle of Land Rover's capability and speed.

19. 2008 Lexus IS-F

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.2 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.7 Seconds

The 2008 Lexus IS-F ventured outside Lexus's traditional comfort and luxury driving experience into the sport sedan arena. The 416-hp muscle-packed sedan made good of the original letter 'F', a furious nod to Lexus's early development as "Circle F."

We looked forward to a performance model when Lexus filed a trademark application for the “F” emblem in 2006, and in 2008, the IS-F was born, taking on competitors like the Audi RS4, BMW M3, and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

It got power from an exclusive 5.0-liter V8 derived from the LS 600h L's hybrid engine, cranking out 371 lb-ft of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission, a modified version of the LS 460's unit, ensures lightning-quick shifts and automatic throttle blips on downshifts.

18. 2023 Volvo S60 T8 Recharge Ultimate Black Edition

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 4.1 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.5 Seconds

^{Photo credit: SlashGear}

With the 2023 Volvo S60 T8 Recharge Ultimate Black Edition, the more you look, the less you see. The fashion upgrades easily blinded people from what this car can do. It actually wears all-white attire, defying the conventional blacked-out styling of typical “Black Editions.”

This luxury sedan benefits from Volvo's advanced T8 Recharge plug-in powertrain, combining a 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine with a 107-kW electric motor to deliver a remarkable 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. The seamless interplay happens through an 8-speed automatic transmission featuring regen braking and even EV-style One Pedal driving.

The Black Edition, available in Onyx Black or Crystal White, thinks of style as a glossy black trim, a fully blacked-out grille, unique badging, and 19-inch redesigned black alloy wheels.

17. 2021 Ram 1500 TRX

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.8 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.4 Seconds

The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, a formidable 702-horsepower pickup with Hellcat power, takes aim at the Ford F-150 Raptor. Widened by 8 inches and boasting enhanced off-road prowess, it earned a spot on multiple 10Best lists and Editors' Choice awards.

The TRX flaunts a luxurious interior, advanced suspension, and cutting-edge technology. Priced just above $72,000, it was an irresistible value proposition and the dominant force in the high-performance pickup arena.

16. 2016 Jaguar XJR

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.8
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.0

^{Photo credit: Top Gear}

Jaguar's commitment to potency shines in the 2016 XJR, an assertive elder statesman of luxury sedans. Housing a robust supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, vented hood, vivid red brake calipers, and a quad-exhaust setup, the XJR flaunts power with a charm that rivals its peers.

Accelerating to 60 mph in a swift 3.8 seconds and reaching a top speed of 174 mph, it demonstrates prowess without sacrificing refinement. Look no further than the 2016 XJR if you’re looking for a sleeping beast that only wakes when you give the command.

The Jaguar XJR achieves a harmonious blend of performance and civility, letting its V8 roar selectively, mainly in dynamic mode, ensuring it remains a luxury car with the heart of a high-performance machine.

15. 2023 Genesis GV60 Performance

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.7 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.2 Seconds

The 2023 Genesis GV60 Performance is too pretty for the fire in its belly. The stylish luxury electric SUV abandoned the iconic Genesis grille, opting for a slimmer lower design.

The powertrain features all-wheel-drive configurations with dual motors, offering a combined 314 horsepower in the “Advanced” model and an impressive 429 horsepower in the “Performance” trim.

Engaging Boost mode temporarily boosts power to 483 hp, propelling the GV60 Performance to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. The SUV’s road manners and handling have been likened to the Porsche Macan, marking the GV60 as a compelling entry into the luxury EV space.

14. 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R SuperCrew

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.6 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 12.0 Seconds

Ultimate desert off-roader 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R SuperCrew elevated the Raptor's prowess with a monstrous supercharged V8 borrowed from the GT500. While bearing a hefty price tag, the Raptor R promises unrivaled high-speed desert adventures.

Recently redesigned in 2021, the 2023 F-150 lineup maintains its diverse drivetrain options, robust towing and payload capacities, and a modern, comfortable interior. The Raptor PowerBoost hybrid system delivers a potent blend of power and fuel efficiency while doubling as a backup generator for your home.

The highlight of 2023 is undoubtedly the Raptor R, boasting 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque from the Shelby GT500's supercharged V8.

13. 2016 Audi RS6 Avant Performance

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.6 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.4 Seconds

Motivated by a 4.0 TFSI engine generating a formidable 605 horsepower and up to 553.2 lb-ft of torque, the 2016 Audi RS6 Avant Performance and RS7 Sportback Performance achieved acceleration levels usually associated with supercars.

Remarkably, the fuel economy didn’t get hard hit, returning a class-leading combined economy of 29.4mpg for both the standard RS6 Avant and Performance, corresponding to 223 and 221 g CO2 per km.

Equipped with the potent V8 biturbo power unit of 3,993 cc displacement, the RS performance models exhibit a power increase of 45 hp to reach 605 hp between 6,100 and 6,800 rpm.

The torque remains a constant 516.3 lb-ft between 1,750 and 6,000 rpm, with an overboost function enabling temporary access to 553.2 lb-ft between 2,500 and 5,500 rpm under full load in "dynamic" mode. Notable features include twin-scroll turbochargers, innovative thermal management, and a distinctive cylinder head layout, emphasizing a high-tech essence and ensuring rapid torque development with minimal flow losses.

12. 2012 Nissan Juke R

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.5 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.8 Seconds

^{Photo credit: David Villarreal Fernandez via Wikimedia}

The idea of a real-life Juke R sounded like the joke of the century, but the thing turned out as real as a tiger’s paw. The Juke R somehow cradled a GT-R powertrain, thanks to the painstaking efforts of Nissan Technical Center Europe and RML Motorsports.

It’s said that Nissan's Japanese executives had no clue what Nissan Europe was up to and were as surprised as the rest of us about the two-ton monsters created by RML Group. They showed it off as the Dunlop 24 Hours of Dubai official pace car.

Despite the unique challenge of sticking the GT-R's driveline inside the Juke R, the SUV maintained the Juke's original length but widened a bit. Even with the modified wheel arches, menacing aesthetics, flat black paint, 20-inch wheels, and a split rear wing, not even gearheads would’ve entertained the thought of a Juke going from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

Two units exist—one left-hand drive and one right-hand drive—both powered by a tweaked 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 from the 2011 Nissan GT-R.

11. 2016 Cadillac CTS-V Sedan

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.5 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.7 Seconds

Revving onto the scene for 2016, the all-new Cadillac CTS-V rocked a supercharged V8 that essentially transformed it into a track-ready luxury sedan, complete with a 25% stiffer body structure and enhanced suspension and steering, along with a meticulously refined interior featuring cutting-edge technology.

The CTS-V demonstrated Cadillac’s determination to outperform its import counterparts. It was cheaper too. Under the hood, a slightly retuned version of the Corvette Z06’s 6.2-liter supercharged V8 unleashed 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque.

The power travels to the rear wheels via an electronic limited-slip differential thanks to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, complete with paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

The CTS-V offered four drive modes – Snow, Tour, Sport, and Track – each adjusting throttle response, transmission behavior, steering feel, suspension dynamics, and stability control calibration. The Track mode further fine-tunes performance with five traction control levels.

10. 2015 Dodge Charger SRT 392

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.5
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.6

^{Photo credit: Sicnag via Wikimedia}

Roaring onto the scene in 2015, the 485-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT 392 joined the SRT lineup alongside the ferocious Charger SRT Hellcat. Under its hood, a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 churned out 475 lb-ft of torque.

The segment-first TorqueFlite heavy-duty eight-speed automatic transmission ensures efficient street driving and exhilarating track performance with lightning-fast 160-millisecond shifts and rev-matching capabilities.

Dodge and SRT designers left no panel untouched, refining every inch with functional performance cues, such as heat extractors in the hood, distinctive front and rear fascias, and striking LED lighting.

Both Charger SRT models boast unparalleled performance features, including massive 15.4-inch Brembo two-piece rotors, six-piston calipers, 20-by-9.5-inch wide forged-aluminum wheels with Pirelli P Zero performance tires, adaptive damping three-mode suspension, and the heavy-duty eight-speed automatic transmission.

9. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.4 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.8 Seconds

Jeep finally fulfilled the Hellcat V8's destiny by squeezing 707 horsepower into the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. It features strengthened drivetrain components and improved cooling systems compared to the now-less extreme SRT variant, which remained largely unchanged for 2018.

Both versions received the latest Uconnect infotainment software plus a new Premium Metal package that introduced genuine metal accents to the interior.

The Grand Cherokee SRT won gearheads’ hearts and wallets with its thunderous Hemi V8. Now, it looked forlorn from the backseat as the Trackhawk stole the spotlight with its mind-blowing acceleration and rebellious soundtrack.

8. 2023 Kia EV6 GT

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.2 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.5 Seconds

^{Photo credit: Car and Driver}

The 2023 Kia EV6 GT claims the top spot in the lineup, boasting a formidable 576 horsepower and an adaptive suspension system. Activating the system's full potential with a green button on the steering wheel enables a rapid 0-60 mph time of around 3.2 seconds.

Kia has amped up the GT's interior with sports seats and vibrant neon green accents to complement its enhanced performance. However, the power increase comes at a cost, reducing the driving range estimate to 206 miles per charge, a notable decrease from the most efficient model's 310-mile range.

Notably, the entry-level Light trim is no longer available for 2023, making the rear-wheel-drive Wind model the most affordable EV6, albeit with a $7,100 price increase.

7. 2021 Audi RS6 Avant

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.1 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.5 Seconds

^{Photo credit: Elise240SX via Wikimedia.}

The 2021 Audi RS6 Avant defied the American notion of understated station wagons. Based on the Audi A6 Allroad, the RS6 Avant features exclusive RS bodywork and high-performance enhancements.

Beneath its pretty body lies a 591-hp twin-turbo V8, delivering exhilarating sounds through a paddle-shifted automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. This powerhouse wakes the sleeping Avant to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, with the fastest version reaching a top speed of 190 mph.

The interior blends style, space, and abundant luxury features, but the RS6 Avant's real allure lies in its thrilling driving experience. It costs as much as premium alternatives like the Mercedes-AMG E63 S wagon and Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo, but the 2021 RS6 Avant is an exceptional family hauler.

6. 2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 3.0 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.7 Seconds

General Motors stunned the industry by resurrecting the gas-guzzling Hummer brand as an all-electric GMC sub-brand for 2022. The inaugural model, the Hummer EV Edition 1 pickup truck, boasts up to 1,000 horsepower from its top-tier powertrain comprising three e-motors.

It has an estimated range of 329 miles per charge and a rapid 0-60 mph time of 3 seconds. Notable features include removable roof panels, an optional adjustable air suspension, and a unique four-wheel-steering system allowing diagonal movement. Tesla and Rivian are its direct rivals.

With the Edition 1 trim already sold out, the EV3X is a compelling choice, offering premium features like an adjustable air suspension, GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system, and a spacious 13.4-inch infotainment display. The more affordable EV2X and EV2 variants, with a two-motor drivetrain, are slated for release in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

5. 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 2.9 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 11.0 Seconds

The Mercedes-AMG E63 S marked the all-new E-class sedan’s debut in 2018. This exclusive model, available solely with all-wheel drive, features a cutting-edge 603-hp twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

This masterpiece of engineering introduced a Drift mode that transformed the luxury sedan into a rear-wheel-drive thrill-seeker.

The Drift mode is a standard feature on the E63 S trim and works like a reverse-4Matic+, sending 100% of the drive to the rear wheels. It allows for oversteer-prone goofy driving, while Comfort mode returns you to earth post-goofball fun.

4. 2024 Rivian R1T Quad-Motor

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 2.9 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: TBD

^{Photo credit: Edmunds}

The Rivian R1T is an electrifying force in the pickup segment. With up to 835 horsepower in its belly, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in less than 3 seconds, a serious challenge to rivals like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and GMC Hummer EV SUT.

The R1T effortlessly tows up to 11,000 pounds, all with minimal noise. Should it even be “legal” to make a truck this fast? The R1T combines off-road prowess with exceptional performance. The standard all-wheel drive comes in two configurations: Dual-Motor (600 horsepower) and Quad-Motor (up to 835 horsepower).

3. 2022 BMW M5 CS

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 2.6 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 10.6 Seconds

Yes, an M5 is fast by designation, but the 2022 BMW M5 CS is a particularly superlative supersedan with unparalleled grip and acceleration thanks to a ferocious V8 power and standard all-wheel drive. The sacrifices in everyday comfort and storage are inconsequential for gearheads seeking one of BMW's sharpest and rarest sport sedans.

Only for the 2022 MY, the M5 CS took the M5 Competition's performance to new heights. A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 627 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque made the M5 CS the quickest and most powerful production BMW.

Shedding 230 pounds through a crash diet in the form of those sacrifices mentioned earlier, the M5 CS accelerates to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds, reaching a top speed of 190 mph. Standard features include carbon-ceramic brake rotors. Performance Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires were optional.

The retuned suspension coupled with 20-inch forged aluminum wheels enhanced the driving experience. You’d know the M5 CS by its bronze-gold Y-spoke wheels, vented hood, carbon-fiber elements, and exclusive exterior trim. It offered a choice of three colors: Brands Hatch gray, Frozen Brands Hatch gray metallic, and Frozen Deep Green metallic.

2. 2022 Lucid Air Dream Performance Edition (21" Wheels)

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 2.6 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 10.1 Seconds

Lucid Motors is a rare success story, and the 2022 Lucid Air Dream Performance Edition is a star among EV startups. Lucid offers the Dream Edition in two limited-production models: Performance and Range.

The Dream Edition Range boasts 933 horsepower and an unmatched 520-mile range. Meanwhile, the Dream Edition Performance cranks up the power to 1,111 hp with a still impressive 471-mile range. Limited to just 520 units, interested customers are now late to the party.

Urged by 1,025 pound-feet of torque, the unassuming sedan bolts from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.5 seconds in Sprint mode (784 hp in other modes). Lucid didn’t bother to relay all that power via an artificial soundtrack, leaving you enveloped in the whine of the dual electric motors.

1. 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid (VHT Prepped Surface)

0–60 MPH Acceleration: 2.0 Seconds
Quarter-Mile Acceleration: 9.3 Seconds

^{Photo credit: Dllu via Wikimedia}

It took a while before the world caught on to what the modest-looking Tesla could do. The 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid disrupted the automotive landscape with an electric powerhouse that broke the 2.0-second 0-60 mph barrier.

The redesigned model sported subtly flared fenders, wider wheels, and a lower profile, none of which screamed “aggressive” anyway. Beneath the surface, though, a triple-motor system generates an astounding 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, propelled by unique carbon-fiber-sleeved rotors allowing a claimed 200-mph top speed.

Launching in Drag Strip mode, the Plaid achieved a quarter-mile time of 9.25 seconds at 152.6 mph, with the 0-60 mph sprint accomplished in a jaw-dropping 1.98 seconds to beat the stated figures.

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