2017 Chevy SS
It’s the long-awaited return of the SS nameplate on a sedan. The same 6.2-liter engine from the Camaro is in this Australian-sourced sport sedan, tuned for slightly less power. Its 415 horsepower sets it apart in its class. A firm stomp on the gas pedal races the well-equipped SS sedan to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. That’s faster than a Mustang GT! Dual mode exhaust lets you sound like a sleeper until it’s time to show the kids who’s boss. And ride in comfort on the magnetic ride suspension. This classy sports sedan sneaks in under the $50K ceiling at $46,575 whether you choose the 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Powerful cars don’t get much stealthier than this!
2016 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport
Our first non-V-8 on the list is from Infiniti. The 2016 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 blowing an astounding 400 horsepower. It’s a premium model, so great performance is expected. This model does better than you’d think, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. That’s in part from its 7-speed automatic with manual mode. The bonus with the Q50 Red Sport is its gorgeous, refined interior. Who says you can’t have both performance and comfort? You’ll cough up $47,950 for the rear-wheel drive version. Tack on another $2,000 if you want AWD.
Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA45 Coupe
Bet you didn’t expect to see a 4-cylinder on the list. This CLA45 has a specially-tuned four-banger from AMG. A turbo force-feeds the powerplant for a drool-inducing 375 horsepower. And, with the CLA-Class occupying the compact sedan class, its 4.1 seconds 0-60mph is impressive to say the least. It’s able to do so with 4MATIC AWD and a 7-speed DCT tranny. You won’t be able to add any extras because the AMG CLA45 is $49,950 base price.
