Volkswagen GTI 4-door – Best New Performance Car Under $40,000: Can you tell that we’re big fans of Volkswagen’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the one found in the Eos convertible and GTI, and others? When coupled with responsive steering, a sport-tuned suspension that’s at home on the track and the street, a choice of slick transmissions, and wrap-around bucket seats, that eager four-banger transforms the four-door Rabbit into an instant grin inducer. The $22,600 price and four-door utility are just bonuses.

Finalists:
Acura TL Type-S
VW GTI 4-door