When it comes to choosing a new family car, practicality and efficiency are often top priorities. However, having a bit of fun behind the wheel is something most drivers still appreciate.
In today’s market, crossovers and SUVs are often the default choice for functionality, but they tend to fall short in delivering a thrilling driving experience. Fortunately, a select group of automakers continues to inject excitement into their sedans and hatchbacks.
While having a high top speed is nice, acceleration is a more critical factor when it comes to performance in a family vehicle.
Although performance-oriented family cars might not always be the most efficient, many strike a solid balance checking off all the right boxes while also offering faster acceleration than their competitors.
Here’s a roundup of 10 family-friendly cars that can sprint from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than 6 seconds.
10. 2024 Toyota Camry
The 2024 Toyota Camry continues to shine as a top contender among sedans, backed by its long-standing reputation as the best-selling sedan in the U.S. Known for its solid performance and exceptional fuel efficiency, the Camry remains a smart, budget-friendly choice—especially as the 2025 model transitions to a hybrid-only lineup.
Under the hood, the 2024 Camry features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 203 horsepower and 183 lb-ft of torque.
This setup allows it to hit 0 to 60 MPH in just 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 130 MPH and an impressive EPA-estimated 32 MPG combined. The base LE trim starts at $26,420, while the fully loaded XSE V6 trim peaks at $36,845.
The Camry offers a comfortable ride and user-friendly cabin technology, making it ideal for daily commuting and long drives alike.
However, it’s not without drawbacks—the transmission can feel rough at times, entry and exit might be awkward for some, and base trims may lack key features. Still, for those seeking reliability and value in a gas-powered sedan, the 2024 Camry delivers where it counts.
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9. 2024 Jaguar XF
The 2024 Jaguar XF holds its ground as the brand’s only sedan offering, embodying the refined yet sporty driving dynamics that have long defined Jaguar. Priced from $49,800, it positions itself competitively against luxury rivals like Audi and BMW, while maintaining a distinctive British charm.
Under the hood, the XF features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering 246 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.
This setup allows it to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 155 MPH. While it achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined, fuel efficiency isn’t a strong suit across all trims. Still, the XF impresses with its high-end interior craftsmanship, smooth ride quality, and agile handling.
However, the exterior styling feels a bit dated compared to fresher-looking competitors, and the brand’s track record for reliability remains a concern.
Despite these shortcomings, the 2024 Jaguar XF offers an elegant, engaging drive for those seeking something a bit different in the luxury sedan space.
8. 2024 BMW 3 Series
The 2024 BMW 3 Series continues to exemplify the brand’s commitment to performance and refinement, offering a well-balanced mix of power, practicality, and luxury. While BMW’s larger sedans come at a higher cost, the 3 Series remains a more accessible entry point into the lineup without sacrificing the premium experience.
Starting at $44,500 for the 330i base trim—and $46,500 for the xDrive all-wheel-drive variant—the 3 Series is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this setup enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 155 MPH and a combined fuel economy rating of 29 MPG.
Inside, the 3 Series offers excellent build quality, comfortable and supportive front seats, and a smooth-shifting transmission with manual mode.
However, the interior controls can be unintuitive, the lane-keep assist may come off as overly aggressive, and the steering lacks the engaging feel of older models. Still, for buyers seeking a compact luxury sedan with strong performance and upscale appointments, the 2024 3 Series remains a compelling option.
7. 2024 Subaru WRX
In the Japanese domestic market, the Subaru WRX enjoys legendary status as one of the most iconic nameplates in the performance car world, with a lineage that can be traced back to the golden era of rally racing. Its reputation was forged through years of motorsport dominance, and that spirit still lives on in today’s model.
Although the Impreza has now branched off as a distinct model, the 2024 Subaru WRX remains firmly rooted in its rally-inspired origins. It delivers a compelling mix of performance and practicality, all at a price that keeps it accessible to driving enthusiasts.
The WRX is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four Boxer engine, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. This setup produces 271 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, distributed through a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.
As a result, the car can launch from 0 to 60 MPH in just 5.5 seconds. While the top speed hasn’t been disclosed, the WRX offers a respectable EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 MPG combined.
The 2024 WRX starts at $32,735 for its base trim, making it a solid value in the sport compact segment. Although it’s not purpose-built for rugged off-road adventures, its AWD system significantly boosts traction on everything from smooth asphalt to more uneven terrain.
The engine’s responsiveness and the car’s balanced chassis make it a thrill to drive, particularly for those who appreciate the rare opportunity to row their own gears with a manual transmission.
That said, the WRX isn’t without compromises. On the plus side, it’s one of the last few sedans still offering a manual gearbox, and it benefits from agile handling and confident braking. However, its suspension setup contributes to a firm ride that might not suit all drivers.
The infotainment interface also lacks the smooth responsiveness seen in some rivals, and the cabin can get noticeably noisy at higher speeds. Even so, for purists seeking authentic driving engagement, the 2024 Subaru WRX remains a standout option in today’s increasingly automated automotive landscape.
6. 2024 Audi A5 Sportback
Shifting attention back to Europe, few brands carry the same prestige for performance as Audi. Like its German rival BMW, Audi remains committed to the sedan segment, and the 2024 A5 Sportback serves as a standout option for families or individuals looking to move away from traditional SUVs.
Even as electrification looms on the horizon for this model, the current iteration remains firmly rooted in delivering a dynamic driving experience.
The 2024 Audi A5 Sportback is positioned in the middle of Audi’s mid-size range and starts at $48,400. It comes powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offered in various output levels.
The range-topping 45 TFSI variant produces 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction and acceleration, helping the A5 Sportback hit 60 MPH in just 5.4 seconds. The model also boasts a top speed of 155 MPH and delivers a strong balance of efficiency with an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined.
The A5 Sportback’s appeal isn’t just in its numbers—it brings together performance, style, and everyday usability. The sleek and athletic design is one of its strongest selling points, and in the 45 TFSI trim, power delivery is smooth and satisfying. It’s also one of the few vehicles in its class that successfully blends sporty handling with respectable fuel economy.
Still, it’s not without its shortcomings. Rear headroom can be tight due to the sloping roofline, and the infotainment system may feel unintuitive at times.
Additionally, some drivers may notice occasional cabin noise, especially at higher speeds. Despite these drawbacks, the 2024 Audi A5 Sportback remains a compelling choice for those who want luxury and performance wrapped in a stylish, practical package.
5. 2025 Kia K5 GT
Sitting at the top of Kia’s streamlined sedan lineup for the 2025 model year is the updated mid-size K5. With a noticeable refresh, the Kia K5 remains one of the most competitively priced options in its class, offering five distinct trim levels to cater to a variety of drivers and preferences.
All 2025 K5 trims now come equipped with a 2.5-liter engine, but the GT trim sets itself apart with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Starting at $33,090, the GT is the performance flagship of the lineup.
Under the hood, this engine produces a robust 290 horsepower and a class-leading 311 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, the K5 GT delivers strong performance credentials.
he 2025 K5 GT accelerates from 0 to 60 MPH in just 5.2 seconds, making it a legitimate contender among performance-minded family sedans. The model also has a top speed of 155 MPH, although EPA-estimated fuel economy figures have not yet been released.
The 2025 Kia K5 GT isn’t just about straight-line speed. It offers engaging driving dynamics and a cabin that’s both spacious and refreshed, featuring large digital displays for both infotainment and driver information. These enhancements make the interior feel modern and user-friendly.
However, there are still a few drawbacks to note. The driver’s seating position may not be ideal for everyone, and the stock tires leave room for improvement—upgrading to performance rubber would elevate the driving experience.
Additionally, while the car handles well, ride comfort can suffer on rougher roads. Despite these minor issues, the K5 GT remains a compelling option for those seeking a mix of style, space, and serious performance in a mid-size sedan.
Also Read: 12 Best Crossovers Perfect for First-Time Buyers
4. 2024 Honda Civic Type-R
Among the top-tier high-performance hatchbacks, few nameplates carry as much weight as the Honda Civic Type-R. The 2024 model doesn’t introduce major changes compared to its 2023 predecessor, but it still holds its ground as one of the quickest options in the segment.
Even more impressive is how competitively it’s priced, making it accessible for those who want serious performance without diving into luxury-brand territory.
Despite being heavily performance-focused, the Civic Type-R doesn’t sacrifice daily usability. It manages to balance aggressive capabilities with comfort and practicality, making it a versatile choice for driving enthusiasts who still need a car that works for everyday life.
Under the hood, the 2024 Honda Civic Type-R is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and a front-wheel-drive layout, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 4.9 seconds. It also reaches a top speed of 170 MPH and returns an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined.
With a starting price of $44,795, the Civic Type-R might seem expensive for a hatchback. However, that price is well-justified given its power, handling, and track-ready nature. The front-wheel-drive system delivers exceptional grip, and the manual gearbox is smooth and precise, adding to the engaging driving experience.
Still, the Civic Type-R isn’t without its drawbacks. Fuel efficiency isn’t its strong suit, and high fuel costs may be a concern for some buyers.
Additionally, while the car excels in performance, it doesn’t come packed with many extra features beyond the essentials. Even so, the 2024 Civic Type-R remains one of the most compelling performance hatchbacks on the market, offering raw driving excitement in a refined and functional package.
3. 2024 Cadillac CT5 Premium Luxury
Returning to the sedan segment, American options are becoming increasingly scarce as many major automakers shift their focus toward SUVs and crossovers. However, one brand still firmly committed to the sedan category is Cadillac, with the mid-size CT5 serving as a key offering in the Detroit-based manufacturer’s lineup.
The 2024 Cadillac CT5 Premium Luxury trim stands out as a well-balanced alternative to the spotlight-grabbing CT5-V Blackwing. While the high-performance variant gets most of the headlines, the Premium Luxury version delivers an impressive blend of comfort, refinement, and performance at a more accessible price point.
Starting at $44,920, this trim comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine. For those looking for more muscle, an available 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 delivers 335 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque.
Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, this upgraded powertrain enables the CT5 to hit 60 MPH in just 4.9 seconds. The top speed is rated at 156 MPH, and the EPA-estimated fuel economy comes in at 22 MPG.
This version of the CT5 makes a strong case for itself in the luxury mid-size segment. The cabin features high-quality materials and an upscale design that reinforces Cadillac’s premium image.
When equipped with the twin-turbo V-6, the car offers more than enough power for spirited driving, and the handling remains sharp and responsive, even by luxury standards.
Still, it isn’t perfect. The 10-speed automatic transmission can feel less refined in certain driving conditions, and opting for the more powerful engine does come at the cost of fuel efficiency. Additionally, rear headroom is somewhat limited, which may affect taller passengers.
Even so, the 2024 Cadillac CT5 Premium Luxury remains a standout choice for those seeking a distinctly American take on the modern luxury sedan—blending power, comfort, and character in a rapidly shrinking segment.
2. 2024 Volkswagen Golf R
0-60 MPH: 4.5 Seconds
Another standout in the high-performance hatchback category is the 2024 Volkswagen Golf R. For decades, the Golf lineup has served as a benchmark for safety, practicality, and everyday usability in the hatchback segment.
The R variant builds on that solid foundation by injecting serious performance, all while maintaining the utilitarian traits that have made the Golf a staple among compact car enthusiasts.
Priced from $45,664, the 2024 Golf R comes in slightly higher than its direct rival, the Honda Civic Type-R. Still, it justifies the cost with an impressive feature set and potent performance. Powering the Golf R is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 315 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic, depending on their driving preferences. Regardless of gearbox choice, the car comes standard with Volkswagen’s all-wheel-drive system, which gives it a traction advantage and enables a 0 to 60 MPH time of just 4.5 seconds.
The Golf R also boasts a top speed of 155 MPH and returns an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined with the manual transmission and 23 MPG combined with the automatic.
Performance aside, the Golf R excels at blending comfort with capability. The adaptive suspension system plays a major role in balancing ride quality and cornering sharpness, while the cabin offers enough space to comfortably accommodate all passengers.
Handling is crisp and responsive, contributing to the Golf R’s reputation as a driver’s car that doesn’t compromise on practicality.
However, it does have its drawbacks. The interior controls can be unintuitive, particularly the touch-sensitive interface, which takes time to get used to. There’s also a known issue with carbon buildup in the intake valves over time, something prospective buyers should keep in mind.
Additionally, while the manual version offers an engaging drive, it sacrifices a bit of fuel efficiency compared to the automatic. Still, for those seeking a balanced mix of everyday usability and thrilling performance, the 2024 Volkswagen Golf R delivers on nearly every front.
1. 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4MATIC
For those seeking top-tier luxury in a family-friendly sedan, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a standout option, as it ticks nearly every box.
This model marks the debut of a new generation, featuring a complete redesign that enhances technology, comfort, and performance. With an emphasis on advanced features, the 2024 E-Class promises to deliver a refined driving experience that caters to both luxury and practicality.
The 2024 E-Class sits in the middle of Mercedes-Benz’s lineup of internal combustion-powered sedans, with a starting price of $62,300.
However, to unlock more power, buyers can opt for the E 450 4MATIC trim, starting at $68,100. This version comes equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, which is further supported by mild hybrid assistance. Together, they help the luxury sedan reach 60 MPH in just 4.4 seconds.
The E-Class also benefits from Mercedes’ renowned all-wheel-drive system, which contributes to its impressive acceleration. With a top speed of 155 MPH and an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 MPG combined, the 2024 E-Class offers a blend of power and efficiency.
A key advantage of the E-Class is its mild hybrid system, which provides smooth and responsive power delivery while improving overall fuel economy.
The ride quality is another strong point, with the sedan offering a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. Moreover, the 2024 E-Class comes packed with the latest technology that Mercedes-Benz has to offer, ensuring that drivers stay connected and entertained during every journey.
However, the 2024 model isn’t without its flaws. The rear headroom remains limited, which could be uncomfortable for taller passengers, and the car is heavier than last year’s version.
Additionally, while the new AI-assisted interface brings modern features, it can be challenging to use at times, especially for those unfamiliar with the system. Despite these drawbacks, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class remains an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of luxury, technology, and performance.
