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V6 Powerhouses: These Cars Make V8s Look Slow

Cameron Eittreim January 31, 2025

For years, the V8 engine has been the go-to for raw power, but modern advancements have given the V6 a serious boost. These 40 cars prove that fewer cylinders don’t mean less speed. With turbocharging, hybrid tech, and precision engineering, these V6 machines hold their own against their bigger counterparts.

Nissan GT-R R35

Nicknamed “Godzilla,” the Nissan GT-R packs a 3.8L twin-turbo V6 that delivers shocking acceleration. With launch control and all-wheel drive, it rockets from 0-60 mph in under three seconds. The V6’s tuning potential also makes it a favorite for enthusiasts looking to push well past the 600-horsepower mark.

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Ford GT (2017-Present)

Ditching its old V8 for a 3.5L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, the new Ford GT delivers over 600 horsepower. This setup, combined with a lightweight carbon fiber body, allows it to compete with European exotics. Despite early skepticism, its V6 configuration has proven itself on both the road and the track.

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Acura NSX (2017-Present)

This hybrid supercar features a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 assisted by three electric motors. With a combined output of 573 horsepower, it offers instant torque, sharp handling, and a futuristic driving experience. Acura’s engineering proves that combining electrification with a V6 can make a car both thrilling and efficient.

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Porsche 911 Carrera (991 & 992 Generations)

Porsche moved to a turbocharged flat-six setup, boosting torque and efficiency. The base Carrera models now pack enough power to challenge past Turbo models. With legendary handling and a refined driving experience, the modern 911 proves that turbocharged six-cylinder engines can outperform their naturally aspirated predecessors.

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Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

With a Ferrari-derived 2.9L twin-turbo V6, this Italian sports sedan churns out 505 horsepower. Agile, aggressive, and incredibly quick, it easily competes with high-performance V8 sedans. The Giulia Quadrifoglio is a perfect blend of Italian style and speed, making every drive an exhilarating experience.

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Audi RS5 (B9 Generation)

Audi swapped its V8 for a 2.9L twin-turbo V6 in the RS5, improving weight distribution without sacrificing power. The Quattro all-wheel drive system gives it immense grip, while 444 horsepower ensures thrilling acceleration. With sharp handling and a premium interior, it’s one of the best modern performance coupes.

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Toyota Supra (MKV)

The latest Supra shares BMW DNA, including a turbocharged inline-six engine that delivers over 380 horsepower. While some lamented the lack of a Toyota-built motor, the tuning potential of this V6 has quickly won over enthusiasts. It’s a sports car that balances power, handling, and everyday usability.

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Maserati MC20

Maserati’s comeback supercar is powered by a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 producing 621 horsepower. Featuring a lightweight chassis and stunning Italian styling, it offers exotic performance without a V8 or V12. The MC20 proves that cutting-edge engineering can make a V6 just as thrilling as larger, more traditional engines.

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Chevrolet Camaro 3.6L V6

While most associate the Camaro with a roaring V8, the 3.6L V6 model delivers a respectable 335 horsepower. It retains the muscle car feel while offering better fuel efficiency and lower weight. It may not have the V8’s rumble, but it’s still a fun, engaging sports car.

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Lotus Emira

The Emira is the last gas-powered Lotus, featuring a supercharged 3.5L Toyota V6. With a lightweight chassis and razor-sharp handling, it provides an engaging driving experience that puts driver connection over raw horsepower. It’s a purist’s sports car, proving that agility can trump brute force.

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Jaguar F-Type P380

This supercharged 3.0L V6 delivers 380 horsepower, giving Jaguar’s coupe a perfect balance of power and control. The exhaust note is intoxicating, and the handling is precise, making it a legitimate alternative to heavier V8 models. It’s one of the last great six-cylinder grand tourers.

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Dodge Charger SXT & GT

The V6-powered Charger models offer an excellent blend of performance and practicality. With 300 horsepower, they’re quick enough to be engaging while remaining fuel-efficient. The added benefit of available all-wheel drive makes them great daily drivers that still pack enough punch for spirited driving.

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BMW M240i (G42)

BMW’s compact coupe gets a turbocharged inline-six, sending 382 horsepower to either the rear or all four wheels. It offers M-like performance without the price tag, making it a fantastic entry point into BMW’s performance lineup. The blend of power and balance makes it a true driver’s car.

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Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400

With a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 producing 400 horsepower, Infiniti’s coupe blends lux s aury and performance. It’s quick, stylish, and offers rear- or all-wheel drive, making it a solid alternative to German sports coupes. While Infiniti’s lineup has aged, the Q60 remains a high-performance standout.

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Volkswagen Arteon R

This sleek sedan houses a turbocharged V6, giving it surprising speed. With all-wheel drive and a premium interior, it’s a sleeper performance car that offers an engaging driving experience without drawing too much attention.

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Genesis G70 3.3T

Genesis entered the luxury sports sedan market with a bang. The G70’s twin-turbo V6 delivers 365 horsepower, putting it in direct competition with established German brands. It’s fast, comfortable, and one of the best-driving cars in its segment.

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Kia Stinger GT

The Stinger GT has a 3.3L twin-turbo V6, offering a mix of performance, luxury, and practicality. With 368 horsepower, rear-wheel drive, and sharp handling, it’s one of Kia’s best performance vehicles. It challenges more expensive rivals while proving that Kia can build serious performance cars.

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Ford Explorer ST

A twin-turbo 3.0L V6 powers this sporty SUV, pushing out 400 horsepower. It delivers unexpected speed for a family hauler, proving that practicality and performance can coexist. The Explorer ST is the ultimate dad car, with enough muscle to surprise sports sedans at stoplights.

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Mercedes-AMG C43

This compact luxury sedan comes with a turbocharged V6 that produces 385 horsepower. It offers AMG performance without the extreme aggression of the C63, making it a more balanced, everyday performance car with serious capability. AMG was and still is an innovator to the Mercedes lineup

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Lexus IS 350 F Sport

The Lexus IS 350 F Sport features a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6, offering a smooth and linear powerband. Though it doesn’t have the forced induction of its competitors, its reliability and engaging chassis make it a compelling choice. The Lexus IS lineup was built for enthusiasts who wanted more out of their car.

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V6 Powerhouses: These Cars Make V8s Look Slow

Nissan GT-R R35

Ford GT (2017-Present)

Acura NSX (2017-Present)

Porsche 911 Carrera (991 & 992 Generations)

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

Audi RS5 (B9 Generation)

Toyota Supra (MKV)

Maserati MC20

Chevrolet Camaro 3.6L V6

Lotus Emira

Jaguar F-Type P380

Dodge Charger SXT & GT

BMW M240i (G42)

Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400

Volkswagen Arteon R

Genesis G70 3.3T

Kia Stinger GT

Ford Explorer ST

Mercedes-AMG C43

Lexus IS 350 F Sport

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