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20 Turbocharged Four-Bangers Punching Way Above Their Weight in 2025

Jimmy adeel July 2, 2025

In 2025, turbocharged four-cylinder engines have shattered old stereotypes, proving that small displacement doesn’t mean sacrificing performance. With cutting-edge engineering and technology, these “four-bangers” now deliver power and agility once reserved for burly V6s and V8s.
Automakers are pushing the limits, blending fuel efficiency with exhilarating acceleration and responsive handling.
The following models highlight how modern turbo-fours are redefining expectations, ushering in a new era where compact engines truly punch above their weight.

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1. Honda Civic Type R

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The 2025 Honda Civic Type R cements its status as a sport compact icon, thanks to its potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing over 320 horsepower.
With razor-sharp handling, precise steering, and track-tuned suspension, the Type R easily outpaces many V6-powered rivals in both speed and agility.
This hot hatch remains a favorite for enthusiasts seeking everyday practicality with thrilling performance.
For more, see Car and Driver.

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2. Toyota GR Corolla

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Toyota GR Corolla brings rally-bred excitement to the streets with its feisty 1.6-liter turbocharged triple-cylinder engine, cranking out nearly 300 horsepower.
A sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and lightweight, rigid chassis let the GR Corolla carve corners and launch off the line with ease.
This hatchback’s nimble character and raw energy allow it to challenge—and often beat—much larger, more powerful competitors.
Discover more at MotorTrend.

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3. Hyundai Elantra N

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Hyundai Elantra N stuns with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 276 horsepower and an unmistakable, crackling exhaust note.
This sedan seamlessly blends everyday comfort with serious track capability, offering adaptive suspension, precise steering, and robust brakes.
The Elantra N’s thrilling dynamics rival those of pricier European sport sedans, delivering true enthusiast performance at a more approachable price point.
Dive deeper at Road & Track.

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4. Volkswagen Golf R

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The 2025 Volkswagen Golf R impresses with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine generating 315 horsepower and paired with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system.
This hatchback’s explosive acceleration and unshakable cornering grip put it on par with many larger, more expensive luxury sedans.
A favorite for driving enthusiasts, the Golf R blends everyday versatility with pure, exhilarating performance.
Explore more details at Autoblog.

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5. Subaru WRX

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The 2025 Subaru WRX stays true to its rally roots with a robust 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, delivering 271 horsepower to all four wheels via Subaru’s legendary symmetrical AWD.
This sedan offers exceptional grip and confidence on any surface, making it a perennial favorite for spirited drivers.
The WRX remains a performance bargain, easily standing up to much pricier sports sedans.
Discover more at Subaru Global.

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6. Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S stuns with its handcrafted 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing a jaw-dropping 416 horsepower—among the world’s most powerful four-cylinders.
Its blistering acceleration can rival many V8s, while advanced tech and all-wheel-drive traction bring supercar levels of performance to an elegant, compact sedan.
The CLA 45 S is a true showcase of AMG engineering, blending luxury and explosive power.
Learn more at Mercedes-Benz.

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7. BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe

7. BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe
Image: Wikimedia Commons

The BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe delivers an exhilarating driving experience, thanks to its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 301 horsepower.
Paired with all-wheel drive, this sleek coupe offers brisk acceleration and sharp, agile handling that’s perfect for twisty roads.
In the entry-level luxury sport segment, it competes directly with six-cylinder rivals, proving that BMW’s turbo-four can truly hold its own.
See more at BMW USA.

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8. Ford Focus ST (Global)

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Ford Focus ST continues to excite enthusiasts worldwide with its 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo-four, delivering a robust 276 horsepower.
This hot hatch is celebrated for its razor-sharp handling and energetic performance, easily challenging much larger and more powerful rivals.
While the Focus ST remains unavailable in North America, it shines as a global benchmark for accessible performance.
More details can be found at Top Gear.

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9. Audi S3

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Audi S3 sedan brings together a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 306 horsepower and Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Its seamless power delivery and sporty yet refined character place it in direct competition with bulkier six-cylinder luxury sedans.
Inside, the S3 delights with upscale materials and advanced tech, making it a true all-rounder for those who crave both performance and comfort.
Learn more at Audi USA.

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10. Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce injects Italian flair into the compact crossover segment with its lively 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 285 horsepower.
This stylish SUV blends sharp, responsive handling with a refined cabin, taking on larger and more powerful rivals with ease.
The Tonale Veloce stands out for its balance of performance and sophistication, appealing to drivers who value both agility and luxury.
Find more details at Car and Driver.

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11. Kia K5 GT

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Kia K5 GT proves that family sedans can be genuinely exciting, thanks to its 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and an impressive 311 lb-ft of torque.
This midsize sedan boasts acceleration and driving dynamics that rival traditional V6-powered competitors, all while maintaining everyday comfort.
The K5 GT strikes a smart balance between practicality and performance, making it a standout in its class.
For more, visit MotorTrend.

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12. Acura Integra Type S

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Acura Integra Type S marks a thrilling return, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 320 horsepower.
Sharing performance DNA with the Civic Type R, the Integra Type S wraps that exhilarating spirit in premium materials and refined styling.
This model stands out as a true driver’s car, offering sharp handling and everyday usability that exceed expectations for its class.
Discover details at Acura News.

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13. Genesis G70 2.5T

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Genesis G70 2.5T sedan impresses with a refined 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower.
This luxury sport sedan seamlessly blends premium comfort with athletic handling, making it a compelling alternative to established German competitors.
The G70 2.5T’s spirited performance and strong value proposition help it stand out in a crowded segment, appealing to drivers who want both excitement and sophistication.
More details at Car and Driver.

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14. Mazda CX-5 Turbo

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Mazda CX-5 Turbo proves that family-friendly SUVs can still deliver serious performance, thanks to its 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with up to 256 horsepower and a robust 320 lb-ft of torque.
This SUV’s punchy acceleration and responsive handling let it compete with—and sometimes surpass—V6-powered crossovers in real-world driving.
The CX-5 Turbo blends Mazda’s signature driving enjoyment with everyday utility, making it a standout in its segment.
Learn more at Edmunds.

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15. Peugeot 508 PSE

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Peugeot 508 PSE showcases the power of electrification by pairing a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined 355 horsepower.
This innovative hybrid delivers not only swift acceleration but also sharp, sporty handling—putting it right alongside traditional performance sedans.
With its striking design and advanced technology, the 508 PSE stands as a true performance leader in the electrified sedan segment.
See more at Autocar.

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16. Volvo V60 Polestar Engineered

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Volvo V60 Polestar Engineered is a performance wagon unlike any other, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that’s both turbocharged and supercharged—then boosted further with electrification for a remarkable 415 horsepower.
This unique setup delivers sports car acceleration while maintaining all the practicality of a wagon.
With advanced chassis tuning and premium features, the V60 Polestar Engineered is perfect for enthusiasts who need versatility without sacrificing speed.
Details at Volvo Cars.

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17. Cupra Formentor VZ

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Cupra Formentor VZ injects excitement into the sporty crossover market with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing up to 310 horsepower.
This dynamic crossover delivers brisk acceleration and agile handling, making it a genuine rival to much larger and heavier SUVs.
The Formentor VZ impresses with its blend of striking design, everyday usability, and engaging performance.
Find more information at Top Gear.

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18. Skoda Octavia vRS

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Skoda Octavia vRS brings serious excitement to practical motoring with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 245 horsepower.
Available in both sedan and wagon forms, the Octavia vRS offers hot hatch levels of performance without sacrificing everyday versatility.
This model stands out for its smart blend of speed, space, and value—making it a favorite among drivers who want it all.
More at Auto Express.

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19. Mini John Cooper Works GP

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Mini John Cooper Works GP is a rare, limited-edition hatchback that packs a punch with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 306 horsepower.
With explosive acceleration and razor-sharp dynamics, this lightweight Mini is a true giant-killer among small cars, outperforming much larger rivals on both road and track.
Its bold styling and exclusivity make it especially coveted by enthusiasts.
More details at Mini USA.

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20. Porsche 718 Cayman S

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Porsche 718 Cayman S sets a high bar in the sports car world, wielding a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 350 horsepower.
Thanks to its mid-engine layout and precision chassis, the Cayman S offers razor-sharp handling and exhilarating dynamics that often surpass costlier, higher-cylinder competitors.
This model proves that a turbo-four can deliver pure, unfiltered driving excitement worthy of the Porsche badge.
Explore more at Porsche.

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The Turbo-Four Era: Redefining What’s Possible

Skoda octavia vrs coastal blue
Image: motor-junkie

Turbocharged four-cylinder engines have transformed the performance landscape in 2025, delivering remarkable power, efficiency, and flexibility across a diverse range of vehicles.
From hot hatches to luxury sedans and crossovers, these “four-bangers” now rival or surpass larger engines—proving that innovation knows no bounds.
The future of driving excitement is lighter, smarter, and more accessible than ever. Which turbo-four will you choose?

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