Best New Mid-Engined Cars on Sale Today
The Most Exciting Mid-Engined Cars On The New Car Market
Improved weight distribution, aerodynamics and visually striking engine bays characterize these mid-engine cars
About Our Selections
Almost all the big names in the auto industry have experimented with different engine layouts in the sports car world. For instance, although most of its current lineup models are mid-engine, Ferrari has had many front-engine cars and even boxer models like the Berlinetta Boxer or BB.
Nowadays, there are several high-performance cars, and even a handful of supercars still have a front engine. However, supercar manufacturers nowadays opt for placing the engine between the axles, otherwise known as mid-mounted engine cars.
The reason is that mid-mounted cars typically have a more balanced weight distribution, aerodynamic advantages, and of course, stunning engine bays. Our list comprises the best mid-engined cars you can buy today.
Ferrari SF90
A brawny, hybrid hypercar from Ferrari.
Why We Picked It:
The Ferrari SF90 Stradale is Ferrari's first series-production plug-in hybrid supercar, blending stunning performance with advanced hybrid technology. Powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with three electric motors, the SF90 delivers a combined output of 986 horsepower, making it the most powerful road car Ferrari has ever produced. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds and has a top speed of 211 mph.
The combination of a twin-turbo V8 and three electric motors allows for both incredible performance and improved efficiency. The car has an all-electric range of up to 15 miles, making it suitable for urban driving without emissions. The electric motors power the front wheels, providing all-wheel drive for the first time in a Ferrari production car.
The SF90 offers four driving modes—eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify—allowing the driver to tailor the car’s behavior for different driving conditions.
Top Gear described the SF90 as "astonishingly quick," highlighting its combination of electric power and V8 grunt that delivers an "instantaneous and exhilarating" experience. Car and Driver praised its blend of hybrid technology and Ferrari's trademark performance, noting that it "redefines what a supercar can be" with its advanced powertrain and driving dynamics. Evo Magazine emphasized the car's agility, saying it feels like a much lighter car and offers the driving thrill expected from a Ferrari, despite being a hybrid.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $530,000
Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 + Electric
Power: 986 hp
Torque: 590 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch
Curb Weight: 3,900 lbs
Highlights:
With the SF90, power comes from a massively powerful V-8 and three electric motors. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 generates a mighty 769 horsepower on its own, and the trio of electric motors provides an additional 217 horsepower. The gas/electric powertrain generates a net output of 986 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque.
The optional Assetto Fiorano package, which adds even more performance-focused elements like lighter components, carbon fiber racing seats, and track-oriented suspension, reducing the car's weight by around 66 pounds.
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Porsche 718 Cayman/Boxster GTS 4.0
As pure as you expect a Porsche. Just as good as the Spyder RS and GT4 RS.
Why We Picked It:
While the 718 Spyder and Cayman GT4 RS are both peak Porsche, our pick of the 718 bunch is actually the 4.0 GTS. You get 90% of the performance with a much better day to day package. These cars are among the most exciting and purist-oriented models in the 718 lineup, combining track-focused performance with everyday usability. Both models are powered by a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine, producing 394 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque.
One of the most significant aspects of the GTS 4.0 models is the naturally aspirated engine, a rarity in modern sports cars, offering a smooth, linear power delivery and an exhilarating exhaust note. Both models come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, catering to enthusiasts who prefer an analog, hands-on driving experience. The seven-speed PDK is also available.
The GTS 4.0 models feature more aggressive styling elements, such as blacked-out front air intakes, satin black 20-inch wheels, and distinctive "GTS" badging. Both the Cayman and Boxster GTS 4.0 have a sleek, aerodynamic profile that enhances their sporty appeal.
Car and Driver praised the GTS 4.0 for its “engaging driving experience,” highlighting its naturally aspirated engine as one of the best features. Top Gear described it as "one of the most enjoyable sports cars on sale today," emphasizing its blend of performance, handling, and everyday usability. Motor Trend appreciated the GTS 4.0’s ability to offer a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing comfort, making it suitable for both track days and daily driving.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $69,950
Engine: 4.0L Flat Six
Power: 394 hp
Torque: 309 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 7-Speed PDK
Curb Weight: 3,254 lbs
Highlights:
The GTS 4.0 models come with PASM, which lowers the car by 20mm and offers adaptive damping for enhanced handling and ride comfort.
The standard sports exhaust amplifies the flat-six engine's sound, delivering an iconic Porsche soundtrack, especially in high-rev ranges.
Equipped with high-performance brakes borrowed from the GT4 and Spyder, they provide exceptional stopping power, even during spirited driving.
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Bugatti Chiron
Devastatingly luxurious and powerful
Why We Picked It:
The Bugatti Chiron succeeded the Bugatti Veyron as the company's flagship hypercar and was superior to its forerunner in every possible way.
Making a fast car is easier if you're allowed unlimited engineering flexibility; not so with the Chiron, which presented an additional challenge to automotive perfection. While the engineers had been given permission to create the market's fastest and most powerful production automobile, they still had to satisfy Bugatti's demands for the highest levels of comfort and refinement.
The 8-liter W16 from the Chiron has no power shortage, producing 1,500 hp in SuperSports configuration—at launch, the fastest production car in the world. Its monocoque chassis is carbon fiber, making it as stiff as a Le Mans prototype. It has a cutting-edge quadruple twin-scroll turbocharging system in its 8.0 W16 engine, which an electric actuator activates to deliver the most power during rapid acceleration.
The Chiron churns out 1,500 hp at 6,700 rpm, with a devastating maximum torque of 1,180 lb-ft of torque. Power goes to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $2,900,000
Engine: 8.0L Quad-Turbocharged W16
Power: 1,500 hp
Torque: 1,180 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
Curb Weight: 4,400 lbs
Highlights:
The Chiron's 1500-horsepower, 8-liter W16 engine in the car's longitudinal center allows it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds.
According to Bugatti, the Chiron can reach a top speed of 483 km/h (300 mph) without the limiter.
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Lamborghini Huracan Evo Coupe
Pure Lambo fun
Why We Picked It:
After Gallardo's retirement, the Huracán became Lamborghini's entry-level model, falling just behind the Aventador in the lineup's new hierarchy. It had big shoes to fill, given the Gallardo was the company's best-selling car.
The Huracán LP610-4, which used an updated version of the 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 seen in the previous model, made 610 horsepower from the get-go and accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.9 seconds, partly thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Similar to the Aventador, there is no manual transmission option.
The Huracán had only been in production for three years but had already established itself as a reliable performer. The Performante was the first street-legal version of the automobile designed for racing.
Compared to the Aventador, the Huracán seems somewhat restrained and understated due to its adoption of the Gallardo's recognizable and extroverted wedge-shaped appearance. Still, the Huracán isn't shy about making a statement, and it comes in a wide variety of eye-catching exterior and interior colorways and designs.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $267,000
Engine: 5.2L V10
Power: 640 hp
Torque: 442 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
Curb Weight: 3, 419 lbs
Highlights:
The Huracán EVO features an aggressive and functional design with enhanced aerodynamics that offers better downforce and stability at high speeds. The front splitter, rear diffuser, and the redesigned rear spoiler contribute to the car’s impressive aerodynamic performance.
The car can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of approximately 202 mph (325 km/h).
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Chevrolet Corvette Z06
The quintessential American supercar
Why We Picked It:
It was a toss-up between the Z06 and the E-Ray, but the reviews of the E-Ray aren't as good as the Z06, so we picked the Z06. As an everyday drivers car with amazing performance, the E-Ray is awesome.
The Z06 was conceived and engineered specifically for use on the racetrack. Still, the new Z06 has blurred the lines between street cars and race cars, so it's challenging to pick which environment this car is most suited for. While the DNA of every modern Corvette evolved from its racing car lineage, the new Z06 pays attention to real-life usability.
The team in charge of the development of the Z06 are confident that their latest model will elevate the car to true global superstar status; for the first time, Chevrolet is producing right-hand-drive versions of the Corvette to cater to overseas customers.
Everything about the Corvette Z06, from its striking appearance to its wider front and rear fascias, its exotic proportions, and its luxuriously appointed interior, makes it abundantly clear that the Z06 is not just another Corvette. Rather is a car that is fully capable of holding its own in the supercar stratosphere.
The heart of the Corvette Z06 is Chevy's brand-new 5.5-liter LT6 engine. With 670 horsepower, this engine is the most powerful, naturally aspirated V8 in any production car.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $114,400
Engine: 5.5L V8
Power: 670 hp
Torque: 460 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Curb Weight: 3,366 lbs
Highlights:
The architecture for the Z06 has been recalibrated and fine-tuned in order to extract the full performance potential of the Corvette chassis.
Chevrolet claims the Corvette Z06 can go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds and has a top speed of 195 mph.
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Audi R8 Heritage
The swan song of the sharp supercar
Why We Picked It:
Audi will say goodbye to its legendary Audi R8 supercar with a last GT version designed for racetracks. The R8 Coupe V10 GT RWD will be the last iteration of Audi's supercar in its current gas-powered configuration. Compared with the R8 Coupe V10 performance RWD, various measures resulted in a weight reduction of 44 lbs for a net weight of 3,461 lbs (without driver).
The new Audi R8 V10 GT RWD2 has unique accessories that set it apart from its siblings. The primary identifier is the black "R8 GT" inscription on the rear. Black is used for all other insignia. Better on-road stability and, by extension, higher cornering speeds result from the wind tunnel-developed high-gloss Carbon Aerokit.
A 5.2-liter naturally aspirated Lamborghini-sourced V10 engine that produces intoxicating exhaust notes powers the R8. The engine's 611 horsepower and torque to 416 pound-feet of torque output is sent to the rear wheels via Audi's S-tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Old R-tronic transmission was replaced with an upgraded S-tronic, which features revised gear ratios and faster shift times.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $253,000
Engine: 5.2L V10
Power: 611 hp
Torque: 413 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
Curb Weight: 3,600 lbs
Highlights:
Audi Sport GmbH is offering a Torque Rear mode on the R8 for the first time. Drivers can access seven characteristic curves stored in the traction control system (ASR) offering different levels of support.
According to Audi, the R8 is capable of 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds and has a top speed of 198 mph.
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Ferrari 296 GTB
A new-age supercar
Why We Picked It:
Ferrari's latest entry-level vehicle, the 296 GTB plug-in hybrid, with an impressive 830 horsepower and 546 lb-f of torque. Ferrari's "Fun to Drive" philosophy, which has always been a crucial component of every model they've ever produced, supports the 296 GTB.
Ferrari says you'll need these three things to complete the task. "Sound," or the music made by the motor, is the first. The second is what we'll call the car's "perceived acceleration," or how soon the driver feels like they're going very fast. "Go-kart feeling," or how responsive and connected to the road the vehicle is, is the third characteristic.
The 296 GTB's most striking quality is its tiny and lightweight aluminum chassis. Innovative vehicle dynamic control systems monitor and respond to changes in factors, including tire grip, suspension settings, and driver input, making this car even more exciting to drive. Even a novice driver can use the car's top-notch acceleration, braking, stability, and turning thanks to technology like Side Slip Control, E-Diff, and ABS-evo.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $343,000
Engine: 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 + Electric Motor
Battery: 7.45 khw
Power: 830 hp
Torque: 546 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Curb Weight: 3,241 lbs
Highlights:
The Ferrari 296 GTB delivers smooth and road-going driving dynamics on public roads, where the car is equally satisfying to drive docilely, spiritedly, or anywhere in between.
Ferrari's new-age berlinetta sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and has a top speed of more than 205 mph.
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Maserati MC20
Maserati's big leap
Why We Picked It:
For the first time in over 20 years, Maserati built an automobile in-house with the MC20 (short for Maserati Corse 2020). The Nettuno's 3.0 L twin-turbo V6 produces 630 hp. Its 539 lb-ft of torque propels a superlight vehicle weighing less than 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs).
After producing a CAD model, Maserati used complex software to make predictions about the vehicle's mass, aerodynamic drag, suspension compression, and other dynamic fields. This was also subjected to state-of-the-art fluid dynamics simulations alongside the model.
The final product is a highly aerodynamic and lightweight body that performs multiple functions: it generates downforce, cools the engine, and feeds air to the turbochargers. This car has a simple but delightfully Italian rear spoiler instead of a rising wing that comes out of the body or a permanent wing like the MC12.
The butterfly doors that have become synonymous with the MC20 are a shining example of refined ostentation that can only come from Italy. They are artistic masterpieces that scream opulence and overengineering in the greatest possible way.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $217,000
Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6
Power: 630 hp
Torque: 539 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Curb Weight: 3,307 lbs
Highlights:
The Nettuno V6 engine features several innovative technologies, such as a unique twin-combustion system borrowed from Formula One race cars and dry sump lubrication systems.
The MC20 has a modern, aerodynamic design that that draws inspiration from Maserati's racing history and results in a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph.
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McLaren 750S
A more polished version of the 720S. Still the benchmark new supercar.
Why We Picked It:
The McLaren 750S is the latest evolution of McLaren’s supercar lineup, building on the legacy of the 720S but with significant upgrades that make it faster, lighter, and more refined. With a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine now producing 740 bhp, it offers breathtaking acceleration, going from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.8 seconds. Though it retains a similar design to the 720S, the 750S boasts enhancements like a longer front splitter, lighter alloy wheels, and improved aerodynamic elements inspired by other McLaren models, ensuring more efficient cooling and downforce.
The 750S offers more power and agility, making it one of the fastest cars in its class. Although its top speed is slightly lower than the 720S at 206 mph, it delivers better acceleration through gears thanks to a shortened final drive ratio, giving it even more ferocious power on the track and road.
McLaren has improved the interior, focusing on better quality, comfort, and tech upgrades, addressing criticisms of previous models. The ergonomics are spot-on, making it suitable for everyday use. The latest infotainment system is more responsive, and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay integration make it more practical than ever.
The 750S has been compared to the Ferrari 296 GTB and Porsche 911 GT3 RS, emerging as a strong competitor due to its blend of old-school driving excitement with modern technology.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $325,000
Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8
Power: 740 hp
Torque: 590 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-speed Dual-Clutch
Curb Weight: 3,206 lbs
Highlights:
The McLaren 750S looks similar to the discontinued 720S because it is. It uses a similar powertrain, but this time has even more power. McLaren has gone to great lengths to lower the slithery two-seater's weight to produce an extra-sensational supercar.
McLaren essentially put the 720S through mechanical engineering weight-loss surgery to build an even quicker car. The center-exit exhaust is lighter, the lightweight wheels reduce rotational mass, and even the pistons, borrowed from the 755-hp 765LT, encourage quicker reaction time when you put your foot down.
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Lotus Emira V6
The end of an era
Why We Picked It:
The arrival of the Lotus Emira marked a before and after because it was introduced as the brand's last combustion engine and the replacement for three cars simultaneously, the Elise and Exige duo and the Evora. And to do this, this mid-engine two-seater will offer two powertrains.
The top of the range is the already well-known 3.5-liter supercharged V6 from Toyota, an engine that the brand's top executives continue to praise, and that in this Emira will offer a power of 400 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque paired with a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. The Emira V6 offers a frenetic ride on board with an addictive sound from the supercharged V6 and offers 4 different car modes.
However, the big news is that there's an "entry-level" Emira. It equips a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder M139 engine from AMG, the same one fitted to models such as the Mercedes-AMG A 45 or the CLA a 45. However, the Emira's was detuned for a total output of 360 horsepower and 317 lb-f of torque.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $96,000
Engine: 3.5L Supercharged V6
Power: 400 hp
Torque: 317 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic
Curb Weight: 3,214 lbs
Highlights:
The Lotus Emira is the final internal combustion car for the brand and one of the last supercars to offer a manual gearbox.
The Lotus Emira V6 has a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph.
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McLaren Artura
An everyday hybrid supercar that does it all really well.
Why We Picked It:
The McLaren Artura is the brand’s first series-production plug-in hybrid supercar, combining cutting-edge technology with McLaren’s signature performance. Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor, the Artura produces a combined 671 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds and reach a top speed of 205 mph.
The Artura offers an electric-only range of 19 miles, ideal for urban driving while retaining supercar performance. Built on the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA), it weighs just 3,303 lbs, making it exceptionally agile.
Top Gear praised the Artura’s balance of electric efficiency and high-performance driving, stating that it offers "cutting-edge hybrid technology without compromising the McLaren driving experience." Car and Driver noted its impressive handling and praised the combination of electric and petrol power, making it both efficient and thrilling.
Overall, the McLaren Artura has been well-received for blending hybrid efficiency with the brand's renowned performance, making it a significant step forward in McLaren's supercar evolution. It is really a supercar you could use everyday.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $255,000
Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 + Electric
Power: 691 hp
Torque: 531 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-Speed Dual-Clutch
Curb Weight: 3,600 lbs
Highlights:
Technically McLaren's entry-level model, if such thing exists in the rarefied world of supercars, the Artura's 2023 debut marked the maker's first foray into the world of plug-in-hybrid powertrains.
While the open-top Spider is undeniably enticing, the coupe is still the purest representation the Artura's core mission statement. It's also a quite bit less expensive
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Lamborghini Revuelto
Not only embraced the complexity of hybrid, but mastered it. A deeply exciting car to drive.
Why We Picked It:
Depending on who you ask, the new Lamborghini Revuelto may, or may not, have turned out to be exactly what you’d expect from the Italian automaker. But in any case, it’d have come very close. Two main reasons for this. One—it’s still got that textbook V12 internal combustion engine. Then secondly, it’s a plug-in hybrid.
The V12 is about as stereotypically Lamborghini as it gets, with a 6.5L naturally-aspirated powerplant stealing the show once again. On its own, the Aventador-derived internal combustion engine is able to produce 814 hp and 535 lb-ft of torque—as it turns out, this makes it the most powerful V12 the company has ever made.
So, on the electric front, it’s two motors driving each of the front wheels and a third providing assistance to the otherwise exclusively-ICE-powered rear axle. That makes three electric motors in total, which are powered by a 3.8 kWh battery and bring the all-wheel-drive Revuelto’s total power output to 1,001 hp. Lamborghini claims a 0-62 mph time of just 2.5 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 217 mph.
Top Gear praised the Lamborghini Revuelto for mastering the hybrid complexity, blending a 6.5-liter V12 with three electric motors to deliver an impressive 1,001 bhp. They highlighted its improved eight-speed twin-clutch gearbox, stating it’s a major upgrade from previous Lamborghini transmissions. The V12 engine remains the star, supported by the hybrid system without diminishing its raw power. The Revuelto was also commended for its refined ride, better handling, and increased practicality.
Specifications:
Price: Starting at $610,000
Engine: 6.5 L V12 + 3 Electric Motors
Power: 1,015 hp
Torque: 783 lb-ft
0-62 mph: 2.5 seconds
Top Speed: 217 mph
Highlights:
There are a plethora of drive modes—13 now in total—which cater to all sorts of situations you might find yourself in while piloting the Revuelto. Most notably, there’s Città mode which allows the car to drive silently whilst power is limited to 180 hp.
The Aventador replacement is now a plug-in hybrid. It features three electric motors. There is no reverse gear, that’s done electrically.
The L545 engine is the lightest, most powerful 12 cylinder ever made by Lamborghini. It’s been rotated through 180 degrees thanks to the repositioned gearbox. “The hybrid is only there to support and encourage the best from that masterpiece of a V12”