The Most Underrated Performance Cars of the Last Decade

In the world of high-performance automobiles, certain models bask in the limelight—icons like the Porsche 911 GT3, the Ferrari 488, or the BMW M3 dominate headlines and enthusiast discussions. Yet, lurking in the shadows are equally brilliant machines that never received the acclaim they deserved. Whether overlooked due to brand perception, overshadowed by flashier rivals, or simply misunderstood, these underrated performance cars of the last decade deserve a second look.

1. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (2016-Present)

When Alfa Romeo introduced the Giulia Quadrifoglio, it stunned the automotive world with its Ferrari-derived 2.9L twin-turbo V6, producing 505 horsepower. It was lighter than its German rivals, boasted near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, and featured one of the best chassis setups in its class. Yet, despite its brilliance, the Giulia QF was often dismissed due to Alfa’s historically shaky reliability reputation.

In reality, the Quadrifoglio is a masterpiece—its steering is telepathic, its exhaust note is intoxicating, and its performance rivals the BMW M3 while offering more soul. Had it worn a Porsche badge, it would have been hailed as a legend.

2. Cadillac CTS-V (2016-2019)

The third-generation CTS-V was a brute in a tailored suit. With a supercharged 6.2L LT4 V8 borrowed from the Corvette Z06, it churned out 640 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful sedans of its time. It could sprint to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and had a top speed of 200 mph—numbers that embarrassed many European super sedans.

Yet, despite its capabilities, the CTS-V was often overlooked in favor of the BMW M5 or Mercedes-AMG E63. Part of the reason was Cadillac’s brand image—still struggling to shake off its “grandpa’s car” stigma—but those who drove it knew it was a world-class performance machine.

3. Lexus RC F (2014-2020)

In an era where turbocharging became the norm, the Lexus RC F stuck to its guns with a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 producing 467 horsepower. While rivals like the BMW M4 and Audi RS5 embraced forced induction, the RC F’s high-revving, sonorous engine was a throwback to a purer time.

It wasn’t the fastest in its class, and its weight held it back on track, but as a grand tourer with a soulful engine and bulletproof reliability, it deserved more love. Its dramatic styling and limited-production Track Edition only added to its appeal.

4. Ford Focus RS (2016-2018)

Hot hatches are beloved for their blend of practicality and performance, and the Focus RS was one of the best. With a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder making 350 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a drift mode, it was a rally car for the road.

Yet, it never quite reached the cult status of the Subaru WRX STI or Volkswagen Golf R. Some criticized its stiff ride, while others lamented its front-heavy weight distribution. But for sheer driving thrills, few hot hatches could match the RS’s raw, unfiltered excitement.

5. Jaguar F-Type SVR (2016-2020)

The Jaguar F-Type was always a gorgeous car, but the SVR took it to another level. With a supercharged 5.0L V8 pumping out 575 horsepower, it could hit 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and had a spine-tingling exhaust note.

Despite its performance, it was overshadowed by the Porsche 911 Turbo and Audi R8. Jaguar’s reputation for electrical gremlins didn’t help, but the F-Type SVR was a proper supercar slayer with British charm and devastating speed.

6. Chevrolet SS (2014-2017)

The Chevrolet SS was a sleeper in every sense—a full-size sedan with a 6.2L LS3 V8 (415 hp), rear-wheel drive, and a manual transmission option. Essentially a rebadged Holden Commodore from Australia, it was a muscle car disguised as a family sedan.

Poor marketing and bland styling meant it flew under the radar, but those who knew appreciated its raw power, balanced chassis, and rarity. Today, used SS models are gaining cult status among enthusiasts.

7. Volvo S60 Polestar (2015-2018)

Before Volvo went all-in on electrification, the S60 Polestar was a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0L four-cylinder monster with 362 horsepower. It wasn’t the most powerful in its class, but its Scandinavian minimalism, all-wheel drive grip, and understated aggression made it a unique proposition.

Volvo’s shift to hybrid powertrains meant the Polestar brand evolved into an EV marque, leaving this combustion-powered gem as a forgotten hero.

Conclusion

Performance cars are often judged by their badges, 0-60 times, or magazine accolades. But the true gems are sometimes the ones that slip through the cracks—cars that prioritize driving joy over marketing hype. The last decade gave us many such underrated machines, and as time passes, their brilliance only becomes more apparent. If you ever get the chance, drive one. You might just discover your new favorite car.