The Porsche 911 has long been the benchmark for sports car desirability, blending iconic design with impressive performance. However, modern engineering has blurred the lines between sports cars and high-performance sedans. Today’s powerful powertrains, including hybrids and electric systems, mean that several four-door vehicles can now accelerate faster in a straight line than even the quickest 911 variants. This shift reflects a broader trend: automakers are pushing the boundaries of what a “practical” car can achieve, and the results are startling.
This isn’t just about raw speed; it’s about the changing expectations of drivers. People want performance without sacrificing space, comfort, or everyday usability. The demand for high-performance sedans is growing, and manufacturers are responding with increasingly potent models. This evolution raises a key question: are traditional sports cars losing their edge in the face of these all-rounder contenders?
The Contenders: Speed on Four Doors
The following sedans demonstrate that blistering acceleration is no longer exclusive to two-door sports cars. These vehicles leverage advanced technology and powerful engines to deliver stunning straight-line performance, often at a comparable or even lower price point than a fully equipped 911.
1. 2026 Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance (3.0 seconds 0-60 mph) : This flagship sedan combines the ultimate in luxury with a hybrid V8 producing a staggering 791 horsepower. Despite its weight (nearly 6,000 pounds), the S 63 E Performance hits 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds, making it the fastest sedan on this list.
2. 2026 Mercedes-AMG EQE Sedan (3.2 seconds 0-60 mph) : The all-electric AMG EQE demonstrates the instant torque advantage of electric powertrains. Weighing over 5,500 pounds, it still manages a 3.2-second sprint to 60 mph thanks to its dual-motor setup and 617 horsepower.
3. 2026 Audi S e-Tron GT (3.3 seconds 0-60 mph) : Sharing underpinnings with the Porsche Taycan, the S e-Tron GT delivers strong performance with a low center of gravity and all-wheel drive. This electric sedan accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds.
4. 2026 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance (3.3 seconds 0-60 mph) : This hybrid performance sedan features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 671 horsepower. Despite its hefty weight, it achieves 0–60 mph in 3.3 seconds.
5. 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing (3.4 seconds 0-60 mph) : The only gas-powered American sports sedan on this list, the CT5-V Blackwing packs a supercharged V8 producing 668 horsepower. Its manual transmission option adds an extra layer of engagement.
6. 2026 BMW M5 (3.4 seconds 0-60 mph) : The plug-in hybrid M5 combines a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor, delivering up to 727 horsepower. It can also run for up to 25 miles on electric power alone.
7. 2026 BMW M3 Competition xDrive (3.4 seconds 0-60 mph) : The M3 Competition xDrive maintains BMW’s reputation for fun, exciting performance in an urban-friendly package. Its AWD system and beefed-up turbo six-cylinder engine enable swift acceleration.
8. 2026 Lucid Air Touring (3.4 seconds 0-60 mph) : The Lucid Air Touring balances quick performance with luxurious interiors and a respectable 431-mile range. Its dual electric motors produce 620 horsepower.
9. 2026 Porsche Taycan 4S (3.5 seconds 0-60 mph) : Porsche’s own Taycan demonstrates that the brand isn’t immune to the trend of faster sedans. The 4S variant strikes a balance between performance and price, with 536 horsepower and a 3.5-second 0-60 mph time.
10. 2026 Audi RS3 (3.6 seconds 0-60 mph) : The Audi RS3, based on the A3 compact sedan, offers exceptional value with a unique five-cylinder engine and standard Quattro AWD. It delivers a thrilling driving experience for a starting price of $66,100.
The Electric Advantage
A significant portion of these faster sedans are electric or hybrid. Electric motors deliver instant torque, providing immediate acceleration that gives them an edge over traditional internal combustion engines. The Lucid Air Touring and Mercedes-AMG EQE, for example, leverage this advantage to achieve impressive 0-60 mph times without the need for complex gearboxes or turbo lag.
The Future of Performance
The rise of these high-performance sedans signals a shift in the automotive landscape. Manufacturers are proving that practicality and speed are no longer mutually exclusive. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more powerful and accessible sedans to emerge, challenging the traditional dominance of sports cars. The competition is fierce, and the result is a win for drivers who want it all: luxury, space, and exhilarating acceleration.
