Usually, when you see lists of cars that rank as the cheapest or most affordable, your mind might automatically wander to picture fuel-efficient economy cars. But one list changes the game a little.

If you need horsepower, like 300-horse minimum kind of pep, at the lowest end of the price scale, then keep reading about what Infiniti has to offer. The 2020 Infiniti Q50 is the clear luxury winner in this ‘best of’ list. And it also has one of the cheapest MSRPs, but with all the premium touches and style to go with it.

The cheapest cars capable of producing 300-horsepower

When you look back at cars over the years, those with engines capable of 300-hp or more were typically reserved for muscle cars and sports cars. But today’s selection of beefy performers, harnessing over 300 horses far transcends the days of old. Four-door sedans are joining the ranks these days now too.

Technology is allowing for advancement across the board for a variety of makes and models. But to find out which vehicles come in with the most affordable price, that’s a different story. And the critics at MotorTrend compiled a list based on price and, of course, the 300-hp minimum capability.

How did the 2020 Infiniti Q50 make this list?

Infiniti has a reputation of being an upscale automaker of plush luxury and performance cars. It’s not unheard of that an Infiniti be capable of warping speed and pick-up with 300+ horses. But how did the 2020 Infiniti Q50 3.0t Pure end up on a MotorTrend’s cheapest cars with 300 horsepower list? Believe it or not, consumers can drive home this premium car with its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine for only $37,425. Of course, you will only go up from there as you select trims, packages, and extras. But it certainly inspires a double take to see Infiniti among top-performing, cheap cars.

A premium stand-alone in this contest

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 3.0t Pure isn’t the only luxury model capable of 300-hp. But it certainly is the only car with a less than $40,000 price tag on this list. And according to this MotorTrend roster of powerful affordability, the Infiniti Q50 is the only luxury car in the running. Other vehicles in this collective you may have already predicted, like the 2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost, clocking in with 310-hp. The 2020 Dodge Challenger SXT also makes the cut with its Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine and base MSRP of $29,590. And the sleek Nissan 370 is routinely on these lists, as well. 

Why the 2020 Infiniti Q50 deserves a look

You may have dismissed looking at an Infiniti because you presumed its upscale luxury and performance comes at a high price. But the 2020 Infiniti Q50 may deserve your consideration. New for this year, the Q50 features a revised infotainment platform with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. You will have your choice of five available trims, including the 3.0t Pure, 3.0t Luxe, Edition 30, 3.0t Sport, and the Red Sport 400. All-wheel drive is available for every level, and the 3.0-liter V6 is standard for each, except the Red Sport 400. This performance beast jolts output to 400-hp, with 350 lb-ft of torque. Loading up this high-end trim with all the extras could significantly boost the price, upwards of $60,000.

MotorTrend’s list may be an eye-opener. When you’re ready to find the cheapest and most affordable car, but with plenty of muscle under the hood, the 2020 Infiniti deserves a look. You’ll enjoy the curve-hugging agility while you ride in the utmost comfort and luxury. And of course, it’s worth a test drive because it harnesses 300 horses and is one of the cheapest cars capable of doing so.