U.S. News recently came out with a list of (somewhat) affordable cars that have great performance. It took a look at all kinds of vehicles to see which ones have the best acceleration from 0 to 60 MPH. The 2020 Audi TT was included among the list of 30 speedy vehicles with prices less than $50,000.

Fastest new cars for less than $50,000

The two in this price range with the fastest acceleration are the 2020 Ford Mustang with the GT Performance Package and the 2020 Toyota Supra. The Mustang rockets from 0 to 60 MPH in 3.9 seconds, powered by a 460-hp 5.0-liter V8 engine. The Supra also goes from 0 to 60 MPH in 3.9 seconds. Its engine is a 3.0-liter inline-six, producing 335 hp.

The performance of the 2020 Audi TT

The 2020 Audi TT shows up at No. 21 on the list from U.S. News. It accelerates from 0 to 60 MPH in a mere 5.2 seconds – and that’s with the base engine too. That version has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. U.S. News describes it as having “go-kart-like handling.”

Competitors of the 2020 Audi TT

Two other cars on the list can also accelerate in 5.2 seconds. One is a convertible and the other is a sedan. The 2020 BMW Z4 sDrive30i has a really fast time for a convertible since they tend to be heavier and slower.

Its base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, producing 254 hp. There is a faster engine option, but it does cost more than $50,000. The 2020 Lincoln MKZ Reserve trim with all-wheel drive is one of the last Lincoln sedans. It has a twin-turbo V6 engine with 400 hp.

The 2020 Audi TT

The 2020 Audi TT ranks No. 9 on U.S. News’ list of luxury sports cars, which puts it about the middle of the pack. It’s also No. 8 on its list of luxury convertibles. It has great style, great fuel efficiency, and good cargo space, but some buyers may want even more performance than the low-priced base trim provides. However, the Audi TT’s starting price of $45,500 may make it more attractive than the higher-priced Porsche Boxster and Chevrolet Corvette.

In addition to its base engine, the 2020 TT has two other more powerful engine options. The TTS trim level has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 288 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. It has a starting price of $54,500. The highest trim, the TT RS, has a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder, generating 394 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. It has a starting price of $67,600. All three engines are matched with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The Audi TT lives up to its luxury billing, with standard leather upholstery, heated front seats, and 12-way power-adjustable front seats. Optional features include sport seats and Nappa leather seats with honeycomb quilting. According to U.S. News, the car has high-quality materials and finishes in all trim levels.

Rather than the usual central touchscreen, the Audi TT has its Virtual Cockpit. The 12.3-inch screen is positioned behind the steering wheel, providing drivers with a customizable digital instrument panel display. The car comes standard with wireless device charging, satellite radio, HD Radio, two USB ports, Bluetooth, two SD card readers, as well as an MMI controller with handwriting recognition. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system are optional.

For buyers searching for a vehicle that zips from zero to 60 MPG in 5.5 seconds or less and also has a price tag below $50,000, there are a number of options. The 2020 Audi TT is a great one for anyone also looking for a coupe.