6 Best Turbocharged Cars Under £20K Every Enthusiast Can Afford

Whether you're hunting for a budget hot hatch, a turbo AWD sedan, or a hidden performance bargain, these six cars prove that you can enjoy turbo power without blowing your budget.

1. Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk6 & Mk7) – The Iconic Turbo Hatchback

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a staple in the affordable turbocharged cars market.

Its 2.0-litre TSI engine delivers smooth, responsive turbo power, and the car's refined chassis handles effortlessly on twisty roads or motorway runs.

Stage 1 remaps can push it to 260–290 bhp.

• Looks like a regular Golf → perfect for a stealth performance car
• Excellent reliability when serviced properly
• Strong aftermarket support for suspension, turbo, and exhaust mods

2. Ford Focus ST (2013–2017) – Hot Hatch With Turbo Bite

The Ford Focus ST is a favourite among enthusiasts looking for budget turbo performance cars.

Its 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine delivers thrilling acceleration and responds extremely well to tuning, easily hitting over 300 bhp.

• Punchy mid-range torque for dynamic driving
• Sport-tuned suspension and sharp steering
• Aggressive exhaust note without screaming "performance car"

3. Subaru WRX (2009–2014) – Rally-Bred Turbo Legend

The Subaru WRX is one of the most iconic turbocharged AWD cars available under £20K.

Its boxer engine, paired with symmetrical all-wheel drive, offers phenomenal grip and stability, even in poor weather conditions. For enthusiasts seeking fast sports sedans that blend performance and practicality, the WRX stands as a legendary choice.

• AWD system gives real-world traction advantages
• Stock turbo handles tuning upgrades exceptionally well
• Stiff, agile chassis feels far more expensive than its price

4. Audi A4 2.0T (B8) – Luxury Turbo Saloon Sleeper

The Audi A4 2.0T is the ultimate turbo sleeper sedan. It looks classy, but its 2.0-litre turbo engine delivers serious punch.

ECU remaps can push it past 250 bhp, and quattro versions offer excellent grip.

• Elegant, understated looks hide real performance
• Smooth engine and refined gearbox
• Comfortable for daily driving while being fast

5. Fiat 500 Abarth – Tiny Turbo Fun Machine

The Fiat 500 Abarth is small, quirky, and fast. Its turbocharged 1.4-litre engine provides punchy acceleration, and its light weight makes it feel far quicker than it is on paper.

Perfect for city driving or weekend runs, and it's one of those ideal platforms for modifications with strong tuning community support.

• Go-kart handling for thrilling drives
• Subtle styling hides the performance
• Strong tuning community for mods and stage 1 maps

6. Mazda 6 MPS / Mazdaspeed6 – Rare Turbo AWD Saloon

The Mazda 6 MPS is a rare gem in the turbo sleeper category.

With 274 bhp, AWD, and a 6-speed manual gearbox, it delivers performance that many sport sedans twice its price can't match.

• AWD traction ensures high performance in all conditions
• Powerful turbo engine with smooth gearbox
• Rare, unique, and highly tunable

Why Turbocharged Cars Under £20K Are the Best Performance Buy

• High performance at low cost
• Extensive tuning and aftermarket potential
• Lower insurance than obvious performance cars
• Practical daily usability with hidden speed
• Wide choice of FWD and AWD platforms