Hottest four-cylinder cars
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Automakers are paying a lot of attention to four-cylinder engines because many analysts expect gasoline prices to resume an upward push once the economy picks up steam.
Auto-pricing-information company Kelley Blue Book says auto enthusiasts won’t be disappointed with the performance-oriented, fuel-efficient four bangers that are hitting the market.
Kelley looked at a variety of offerings and concluded that the “variable valve and/or camshaft timing and direct fuel injection” engines typically employ turbocharging to get extra zip.
‘Many car shoppers may be surprised at the sheer number of performance-oriented new cars available today that boast ‘only’ a four-cylinder engine,’ said Jack Nerad, Kelley’s market analyst. ‘Even more surprising is the amount of power and performance elicited from many of these four-bangers, providing a satisfying alternative for enthusiasts who also may be looking to save a little cash at the gas pump.’
Kelly’s top picks in the four-cylinder performance category include the Audi TT/TTS, the Mazda Mazdaspeed 3, the John Cooper Works version of the Mini Cooper S, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR/MR and the Subaru WRX/STI.
-- Jerry Hirsch
