Most of us have an obsession with size. And the automotive market does not fail to deliver on this obsession as well – not only making cars bigger and better – but also managing to mill out massive engines with interminable valves and mechanisms. But is bigger always better? We leave that answer to individual choice. But when it comes to engines, it’s not always the V12 powered cars that emerge as the winners. Sometimes, even a V6 can leave a V12 in the dust because it’s more about how you use the power rather than the amount of power you have.

Updated March 2022: As time continues to pass by and with the demand for more compact models driving innovation, smaller engines receive power upgrades worthy of much larger power plants. Since that innovation continues, we had to update this list to include some new V6 engines that blow V12s out of the water!

History and fables have often taught us this – that smaller is not always weaker. It is not always about might; it’s more about how the might is used. And in the case of cars, it is probably about how that power is tuned. This is why these “underpowered” V6 cars deliver massive torque and horsepower, enough to put a V12 to shame and quell its “high and mighty” persona. Despite the V6 often being overlooked for the bigger and better V8, V10 and V12s – it’s still not time to completely write them off. Here are 20 V6 powered cars that prove otherwise and show that brains count more than pure brawn.

Related: Ranking The Fastest V6 Cars Ever Produced

23 2021 Porsche Panamera 4S E-Hybrid

How Quick Can The Porsche Panamera ST 4S 2021 Reach 60 Mph?
Via: Forbes

Porsche is known for its boxer engines, but powering the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid is none other than the iconic V6. Paired with the hybrid motor, the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid puts many larger engines to shame. To break it down, it has a twin-turbocharged V6 capable of 443 horsepower by itself, but Porsche takes it a step further.

In addition to the potent V6, the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid has an electric motor that produces an additional 134 horsepower for a total combined rating of 552 ponies! Plus, this beast has a top speed of 185 MPH and a 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. Expect that kind of power to come at a premium, though, as it starts well over $100,000.

22 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing FINAL
Via: GMAuthority

The CT5-V Blackwing has a little brother, the CT4-V Blackwing. Based on a standard CT4, the Blackwing is a track monster with a manual transmission and a beautifully refined twin-turbo V6 engine. This 3.6L motor can produce 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. This car might be the smallest in Cadillac's lineup, but it backs a hell of a punch!

The CT4-V Blackwing isn't only a track car, though. It is a pretty capable commuter luxury vehicle that is loaded with some fantastic tech. This tech includes a 12-inch gauge cluster, 18-way adjustable seats, and a 14-speaker AKG sound system. For less than $60,000 starting, the Blackwing is way better than any V12!

21 2022 Kia Stinger GT2

2022 Kia Stinger GT2 Via Wikimedia Commons
Via Wikimedia Commons

The standard Kia Stinger is kind of a shocking vehicle. One wouldn't expect the type of performance it has from a company like Kia, yet we are better for it, and the love continues with the Kia Stinger GT2, a sports sedan worth a second look. Under the hood, it features a 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6 engine that puts out 368 horsepower.

In addition to the V6 power plant, the Stinger GT2 is AWD and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Further, the GT2 sports a valved exhaust system and launch control for great take-offs. Priced at only $51,000 starting, the GT2 comes at a bargain, but with specs like these, it beats a V12 any day.

20 2018 Porsche 911 Turbo S

2018 Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive
Mecum

The Porsche 911 is the fastest and most expensive in the group of rapid sixes. It carries a robust 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 under the hood that thrashes out a whopping 580 horsepower and 553 ft-lb of torque. The 911 Turbo S is characterized by its astonishing V6 power and low combustion.

This all-wheel drive makes a 0-60 sprint in flat 2.9 seconds and touches a top speed of 205 mph. With its PDK gearbox, sports exhaust, and all-wheel-drive capabilities, it can deliver a blistering acceleration. The 911 Turbo S is armed with powerful brakes and an extraordinarily responsive steering system that makes handling and cornering easy to manage.

19 2018 BMW M3

BMW M3 Yas Marina Blue
Via BMW

The M3 carries a punchy 3-liter inline-six putting out a hefty 425 horsepower and 406 ft-lb of torque. It is equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and achieves 0-62 mph in just 4.1 seconds. This 2017 example can also be fitted with a premium Competition Sports Package to reach a whopping 444 horsepower.

The hallmark of M3 is its design that includes a carbon-fiber roof, engine brace, and driveshaft. This BMW also wears an aluminum hood, thus making it lighter and giving it more power to run on the streets. It definitely is one of the best in the group of rapid sixes.

18 2011 Ford Mustang

2011 Ford Mustang
via All Ford Mustangs

With the strength of 305 ponies and its iconic image, the Mustang is the most widespread V6 in the group. This Ford marque is armed with a 3.7-liter 24-valve V6 engine, and it rips to 60 in just 5.3 seconds. The Mustang is currently in its sixth generation and has been coined under various avatars – from a pony car to a muscle car, then a sports car and a GT too.

The Mustang’s all-aluminum DOHC engine coughs up 305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This V6’s engine is tied to a six-speed automatic transmission and can return 19 mpg in the city and up to 31 on the highway.

17 2017 BMW 5 Series 540i

2017 BMW 5 Series 540i
via hdcarwallpapers.com

The BMW 540i is a six-cylinder package that is tailored both to the BMW fanatics and the charisma of BMW. The 5 Series was launched way back in 1972 and is in its seventh generation currently. This mid-size executive car is an impeccable recipe for comfort, convenience, performance, and luxury.

It is laden with one of the best infotainment systems in the market and has a large cargo area. Its turbocharged inline-six 3-liter engine churns out a massive 335 horsepower. Finally, there's the 332 ft-lb of torque that can make it accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds.

Related: Check Out The Fastest V6-Powered Cars Of 2021

16 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio : Digital Trends
via Digital Trends

The Quadrifoglio means four-leaf clover in Italian. So the owner of this "lucky" Alfa Romeo high-performance model will be pleased with a Ferrari-derived 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine tied to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The QF’s V6 mill yields a titanic 505 horsepower and 443 ft-lb of torque.

This remarkable sports sedan is brutally powered for its small size. The QF boasts a 0-to-60 sprint in brisk 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 191 mph. This living legend is well-known for its fascinating appearance, rousing exhaust notes, and sharp handling. With Alfa’s build quality and reliability, the QF is one of the best in the group of rapid sixes.

15 2018 Ford Fusion Sport

2018 Ford Fusion Sport
Via: Driving

In terms of power output, the Ford Fusion Sport is armed with a 2.7-liter dual turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine. It thrashes out an enormous 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. And that too on a reasonably priced family sedan.

A full-throttle Fusion Sport can do a 0-to-62 mph sprint in a sharp 5.5 seconds. This Ford comes with many premium features like an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, continuously controlled damping suspensions, and SelectShift six-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters on the steering column. All these features add to its sophisticated ride quality. With a black mesh grille, quad exhaust pipes, a decklid spoiler, and 19 inches alloys, the Sport looks brilliant when on the road.

14 2018 Nissan GT-R

2018 Nissan GT-R
via Nissan

Dubbed as Godzilla by the Nissan, the GT-R carries a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that pumps out a massive 570 horsepower and an equally immense 470 ft-lb of torque. The GT-R is hand-assembled and hand-formed by the best in the world’s automotive scene. The GT-R outlandish exhaust notes are music to the ears of its aficionados.

It uses a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The best thing is that GT-R has evolved each year since its launch in 2008 and got rid of the glitches it had in the earlier models. The GT-R is undoubtedly is an unsurpassed blend of technology and soul.

13 2018 Acura NSX

Acura NSX
Via Caricos

At the heart of the NSX are an ideally-sized 3.5-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine and three electric motors packed with an air-cooled 1 kWh Lithium-ion battery. All tied to a nine-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with a manual shifter. This AWD has exceptional acceleration when it comes to speed.

Plus, the NSX is exceptional in handling and comfort too. Though it carries electric motors under the hood, it still qualifies as one of the top contenders in the group of rapid sixes. Its sports hybrid power unit thrashes out a whopping 573 horsepower and 476 ft-lb of torque. This next-generation supercar is an engineering marvel for sure.

12 2018 Audi S4

Silver 2018 Audi S4
Via: Wikimedia Commons

The 2018 model year Audi S4 is a performance version of the Audi A4. It is armed with a turbocharged 3-liter TFSI V6 engine that churns out a modest 354 horsepower and 369 ft-lb of torque. It makes a 0-60 sprint in brisk 4.3 seconds and achieves a top speed of 155 mph.

The S4 has a standard Quattro all-wheel-drive that is paired with the Audi’s eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

The S4 is a sophisticated and well-balanced sports sedan. With features like adaptive damping suspensions, massaging front seats, and premium interiors, this car is a true comfort, especially for your spinal cord.

11 2018 Buick LaCrosse

2018 Buick LaCrosse
Via The Car Connection

The Buick LaCrosse is a gorgeous full-size luxury sedan from the GM’s stable. It carries a punchy 3.6-liter direct-injection VVT V6 engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The LaCrosse’s V6 thrashes out a worthy 310 horsepower and 282 ft-lb of torque.

This old-school Buick has one of the most powerful and fuel-efficient engines in the class, especially for a car of this size. With an optional adaptive suspension, a sports mode, and larger 20-inch wheels, the LaCrosse ups the fun factor for the large-car market. It is indeed a good-looking all-wheel drive that is a blend of luxury, comfort, technology, and sophisticated driving subtleties.

10 2001 Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport

Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport
via autoevolution.com

The Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport came fitted with a 3-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 mill. Also labeled as Renault Clio V6, its ESL engine coughed up a decent 255 horsepower and 221 ft-lb of torque. Its phase 2 version was launched in the year 2003 and was hailed as the most-powerful hot-hatch in the world outclassing the famous Alfa Romeo 147 and the SEAT León.

With a modest 0-60 spell of 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 147 mph, the Renault Clio V6 was a handful to drive. Though it survived only a four-year life term, it features among Renault Sport’s most legendary cars.

Related: 15 Most Badass Cars With Turbocharged V6 Engines

9 2018 Audi A7

2018 Audi A7
Via Wikimedia Commons

The latest Audi A7 carries a 3-liter supercharged TFSI V6 powerhouse under the bonnet that is tied to an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The A7’s mill produces a substantial 340 horsepower and a 325 lb-ft of torque.

All the A7s are armed with Audi’s avant-garde Quattro all-wheel-drive know-how and that is the key to the luxury car’s enhanced traction and performance. Not just that, but Audi’s Drive Select lets you adjust your drive to suit the road conditions. With a zero to 60 mph acceleration in a zippy 5.2 seconds, the A7 brings forth a roaring performance every time it kisses the road.

8 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E400

2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E400
via autoguide.com

The E400's mill is a lower-powered version of 396-horsepower churning AMG-tuned E43. This Mercedes-Benz E-Class can also be configured in many ways – from a wagon to a sports coupe and from a four-cylinder to a performance-tuned eight-cylinder. The E400 is powered by a 3-liter twin-turbo V6 that gives a healthy output of 329 horsepower and a 354 lb-ft of torque.

And its V6 engine is paired with Mercedes’ well-known 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission that works flawlessly. This rear-wheel-drive gives a zero to 60 mph acceleration in a brisk 5.5 seconds. The E400 definitely carries the old-school Mercedes charm elegantly with the power to match.

7 2018 BMW 4 Series 440i

2018 BMW 4 Series 440i Via Wikimedia Commons
 Via Wikimedia Commons

The 440i is not a V6 in technical terms, but it does come fitted with a 3-liter twin-power turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The 440i’s engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its potent mill coughs up a solid 322 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque.

This BMW 4-Series boasts a 0-60 sprint in flat 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. This 3-liter turbo six is touted as one of the best engines available in any car which is under the $100,000 price tag. With a stable ride quality, a sporty appeal, and muscular handling; this two-door coupe can outclass its rivals with ease.

6 2018 Chevrolet Impala

Chevrolet Impala
via caranddriver.com

The Impala is armed with a 3.6-liter GM’s High Feature V6 engine option. The V6 produces a hefty 305 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque. Currently, it is one of the most-economical V6s in the group of rapid sixes. This full-size sedan is equipped with GM’s transversely-mounted six-speed automatic transmissions.

Though it may not have an impressive 0-60 dash—around 7 seconds—it has plenty of power. It runs mightily on the roads even when it is chock-full of people and cargo. The V6 Impala not just offers a smooth and comfy ride for people aboard but can house a large payload effortlessly.

5 2018 Jaguar XE 35t Premium

2018 Jaguar XE 35t Premium
via elmhurstjaguar.com

This Jaguar is hailed for its top-notch performance in the V6 arena. With top-of-the-line ride quality and handling, it is one of the best in the luxury small car category. It carries a punchy 3-liter supercharged V6 engine under the hood that is borrowed from the Jaguar F-Type - a two-door two-seater sports car.

Its V6 engine is tied to an eight-speed automatic transmission designed by ZF Friedrichshafen. The XE Premium’s gasoline engine churns out a whopping 375 horsepower and a worthy 332 ft-lb of torque. This mighty V6 has Jaguar’s now-familiar all-wheel-drive mechanism that holds its own against the rivals like Audi’s Quattro, Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC, and BMW xDrive.

4 2018 Nissan 370Z

2018 Nissan 370Z Nismo Cropped
Via millermotorcars.com

This legendary sports car carries a 3.7-liter VQ-Series V6 powerhouse under its hood. The V6 engine is mated to a seven-speed JATCO automatic transmission. Its DOHC 24-valve aluminum-alloy engine belts out an enormous 350 horsepower and a bulky 276 ft-lb worth of torque.

The 370Z features NISMO-tuned suspensions with better springs, dampening, and stabilizer rates. With an intoxicating 7500 rpm redline, it does a 0-60 sprint in a brisk 4.6 seconds. And if that is not enough, it comes with the option of the world’s first available rev-matching manual transmission. The 370Z is no doubt the most-satiating one from the Nissan’s Z-car lineup.