18. Mercedes CLA 45 AMG
Nobody expected that Mercedes will enter the compact performance class and hot hatch class. After all, Mercedes was famous for big sedans that defined luxury and comfort, rather than compact cars with screaming engines. And most of all, nobody expected Mercedes would do it so well. The secret of the

performance of CLA, GLA, and A-Class 45 AMG is the unbelievably powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It started with 345 HP, and for the 2018 model year, it produces 381 HP. Just for comparison, the 2.0-liter four delivers as much power as the 5.0-liter V8 from a couple of years back. However, all that performance and premium badge is pricey. So, the cost of the current CLA 45 AMG starts at $53,000. And that is significantly higher than lots of other comparable cars. But, if you are willing to wait a few years, that price will be lower.