Before we take a look at our comprehensive list of 250 horsepower cars, it’s important to discuss what these vehicles are.
A 250 horsepower car is simply a car with 250 horsepower (hp). Power, in this case, refers to how fast the car can accelerate when going from 0 to 60 miles per hour (mph).
Not how fast the engine itself can go (referred to as RPM, or revolutions per minute).
As you can see in the chart below, 250 hp is roughly equivalent to 200 kilowatts, which means that 200 kW cars have an average of 250 hp under the hood.
1. 2022 Volkswagen Jetta
First on our list of 250 horsepower cars is the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta.
The previous model of this car, which was released in 2012, had a starting price of $20,020.
Currently, no prices are listed for the new model. Stay tuned to see how much this car costs!
One noticeable upgrade is that the previous model only came in a six-speed manual transmission, while this one has a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
There are also upgrades to horsepower and handling and an improved infotainment system.
Lastly, safety was increased by implementing an emergency brake booster system that monitors your braking rate to ensure you stop safely and on time.
2. 2023 BMW 7 Series
The 2023 BMW 7 Series is one of the company’s flagship sedans, as they have shifted away from a family sedan to an executive vehicle to compete with the Mercedes S class.
Compared to the current model, this generation features sleeker lines that draw inspiration from the 2020 7 Series (which was the most radical redesign of their sedan in 30 years).
This vehicle is lighter and more rigid, with a nearly completely aluminum body than its predecessor.
For example, carbon fiber makes up 50% of its roof instead of 6% of its predecessor.
The total weight savings from removing heavy steel and iron components is around 60 kg (~130 lbs).
As a result, this car can accelerate slightly faster than other cars in its class.
3. 2022 Audi A3
The Audi A3 sedan is one of the most popular 250 horsepower cars in the brand’s lineup.
Designed to challenge the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class, this Audi has earned strong praise from many customers.
Reviewers note that it’s attractive, roomy, and well-put together inside. This car also boasts a fuel efficiency rating of 23/33 MPG with an EPA estimate.
Which is significantly better than its competitors (27/38 MPG for the BMW 320i and 23/37 MPG for the Mercedes CLA).
4. Opel Corsa OPC
The Opel Corsa OPC is an extraordinary car with outstanding acceleration and handling.
Acceleration has been improved over the standard Corsa with a 1.6L turbocharged engine that produces 230 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
It reaches 62 mph in just 6.2 seconds, which is a healthy rate for this car class.
Handling can also be called into question because it tends to be light, which leads to wheelspin on any wet surface or snow.
This gives you a sensation of speed, similar to being in a much more expensive sports car like the Audi TT.
Also, the exterior has been greatly improved, though it was never bad to begin with.
The interior feels classy thanks to the silver instrument panel surround matched with black leather seats.
5. Ford Focus ST
The 2018 Ford Focus ST is the perfect car for speed demon drivers that can’t bear to settle.
The turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine gives out 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque with a punchy, satisfying sound for under $30,000.
The chassis features a stiffer suspension and improved steering compared to its predecessor. It is among the supercharged 250 horsepower cars.
Still, it also has an electronic rear differential standard to prevent wheel spin and make cornering enjoyable.
It has excellent safety ratings, packs plenty of features into its cabin, and boasts five-star Euro NCAP ratings across the board.
In short, this compact hatchback is a bargain if you’re after a high-performance vehicle that can be fun on the road or commuting around town.
6. Peugeot 208 GTI
The Peugeot 208 GTI is a performance model of the Peugeot 208, a small and practical family car.
With 208 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful subcompact cars on the market.
Engineered to have precise control and handling thanks to an ideal weight balance, this vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds.
This makes it one of the fastest 250 horsepower cars, around under 300 kilograms in weight, with excellent braking.
It has turning abilities and a maximum speed of over 250 km/h that can be maintained for up to 25 minutes!
7. Nissan 370z
Nissan is known for building great cars, and its 370z is no exception. The car has a six-speed manual transmission, allowing quick shifts when needed.
It also has great safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, seat belts, and child safety locks.
If you are looking for the most cost-efficient and great gas mileage vehicle on this list of 250 horsepower cars, then the Nissan 370z is it!
8. Seat León Cupra
While not as powerful as a Ferrari or Porsche, the Seat León Cupra is one of the most powerful 250 horsepower cars on the market and rivals some of its more high-end competitors.
The engine starts out with 228 horsepower and has an optional performance pack that brings this up to 250.
This makes it just slightly less powerful than many supercars but still offers excellent performance for the price point. Furthermore, it’s not just limited to European highways.
It handles off-road situations well due to its low center of gravity and advanced 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
9. Nissan Juke Nismo RS
Nissan first introduced the Juke Nismo RS in 2013, and at the time only produced 20 copies.
It was designed to have an aggressive and sporty exterior look and a powerful engine that gave it even more personality.
Nissan equipped the Juke Nismo RS with a standard 1.6-liter turbocharged direct injection (TDI) engine that produces 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft of torque on regular unleaded fuel driven through the front wheels.
However, if you want all-wheel drive, this package is available for an additional $2000.
10. Renault Clio RS
The Renault Clio RS is a legendary little hot hatch featuring a classic, wedge-shaped design and some of the best 250 horsepower cars in its class.
Offering both comfort and performance, it can easily cruise comfortably on any commute or fly around hairpin turns.
With close to 200 horsepower and six-speed manual transmission that offers smooth shifts and lightning-quick gear changes, it’s as fun to drive as any car of its size.
Some models offer a limited-slip differential, improving traction during hard acceleration out of corners.
At just over 4000 pounds, this is a heavy little hatchback. It also has plenty of power going up hills or overtaking slower traffic on the highway.
11. Ford Mustang GT
There are a few good options when looking for a car with 250 horsepower. There’s something here for everyone, from the well-known to the more obscure.
The Ford Mustang GT is one of the most well-known cars on this list of 250 horsepower cars.
Also, it has 255 horsepower at 6500 RPM and 315 foot-pounds of torque at 4300 RPM.
It’s got great power mixed with excellent looks. One might argue that it’s the perfect balance between power and speed.
12. Ford Focus RS
The Ford Focus RS is a hot hatchback from Ford that rivals the Volkswagen Golf R and Subaru WRX STI.
As one of the most powerful cars in its class, it offers up 250 horsepower with 310 lb.-ft.
Of torque for people who are looking for a high-performance driving experience. The Focus RS is an all-wheel drive vehicle that can reach 60 mph in less than 5 seconds.
13. Peugeot 308 GTI
The Peugeot 308 GTI is a gorgeous-looking car that delivers performance and thrills.
Under the hood, you’ll find a turbocharged 2.0L engine that packs 227 horsepower, and it’s mated to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
This makes one of the supercharged 250 horsepower cars. As the name implies, this car has extensive GTI tuning done to it, giving it a more aggressive chassis and more power.
The braking system has been upgraded with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, ensuring great stopping power no matter your situation.
14. 2022 Honda Accord
The Honda Accord has been a mainstay in the American automotive industry for over 40 years.
Without including the venerable Honda Accord, no list of 250 horsepower cars would be complete.
Over time, Honda has released many generations of this car, and each generation gets better and better, as it is a perfect case study.
This type of car is powered by a 2-liter engine coupled with a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission.
The fuel efficiency of this car ranges from 30/39 mpg to 20/29 mpg.
It depends on which version you purchase. All models come standard with four wheels, full power equipment, antilock brakes, side airbags, traction control, and electronic stability control systems.
15. 2022 Lexus ES
Elegant and sharp, the Lexus ES is a luxurious model that stands out in many ways.
Its interior is plush and filled with high-end touches, such as heated rear seats and an iPod dock.
The exterior is almost futuristic with its rounded front bumper, black wheel accents, power door handles, and dynamic headlights.
And with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine pumping out 200 horsepower, this model won’t let you down on power either.
16. 2022 Toyota Avalon
Toyota’s reputation for quality, safety, and reliability precedes them in the car industry, making this a tempting option for anyone who doesn’t want to worry about their car breaking down.
One thing that some people may not like about the Toyota Avalon is its size – it’s a pretty big vehicle that takes up space on the road.
But, if you don’t mind driving something with a little more room, this may be a good option.
The Toyota Avalon has many standard and safety features, including front-seat side airbags.
This is worth considering if you’re looking for 250 horsepower cars with comfort and safety while driving.
17. 2023 Toyota Camry
The 2023 Toyota Camry is one of the most highly anticipated cars of the year.
It has a new battery-powered engine, which sets it apart from other hybrid vehicles.
The car offers seven gears, enough space for four adults, and luggage.
There are plenty of safety features available as well, such as lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control.
It produces a horsepower of 250. These 250 horsepower cars have a fuel efficiency of up to 120 miles per gallon, making them eco-friendly in every sense of the word.
Depending on preference, they can travel on highways at speeds up to 115 mph while consuming gas or electric power.
18. Audi RS7
It takes a lot of power to make your car a statement. This Audi is the perfect car to do that.
Coming in at over 500 horsepower, it’s one of the most powerful 250 horsepower cars you can buy right now.
When you step on the gas, it’ll take 0-60 in 3.3 seconds and has 709 lb-ft of torque to make every trip feel like an absolute joyride.
19. Bentley Bentayga
This Bentley combines safety, luxury, and speed with a powerhouse of an engine.
This luxurious vehicle can reach up to 250 mph due to its 5-liter twin-turbo W12 engine.
There are so many features in this car that you can get lost in all the different things it does for you, everything it offers, and all the controls you have.
Also, the interior is large and spacious, with various materials used throughout to make sure comfort is key.
Leather seats come standard in most models, and the dashboard has voice commands allowing you to turn the radio or change channels while driving on the freeway!
20. BMW M3 (E92)
The BMW M3 (E92) is an entry-level luxury sports coupe with a 3.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine with double overhead camshafts.
It features the S54 inline-six engine. It can produce 306 horsepower and 295 lb/ft of torque in stock form.
Additionally, all this power is put to the pavement by 255/40R18 ZR front tires and 285/35R18 ZR rear tires.
The car weighs around 3300 pounds, and with a top speed of 155 miles per hour, the BMW M3 (E92) has the goods to please even the most demanding drivers!
Conclusion
If you’re looking to buy a car, you may wonder which models are the most powerful on the market.
Rather than wading through pages of car listings to figure this out, use this comprehensive list of 250-horsepower cars to make your research easier.
This list includes all models with 250 horsepower cars and more, ranked by horsepower rating in order of strength (as of the date this list was compiled). Enjoy!
