To kick this QOTD off it should be noted that we’re not just here to kick tiny econoboxes while they’re down. Sure, cars with under 150 hp (111 kW) or so might pose a danger when it comes to merging onto the highway at a safe speed, but most people buy such a car knowing that it isn’t going to set their hair on fire with acceleration.
We’re not saying don’t nominate such cars as underpowered and in need of a little more oomph but we are saying to think bigger. For example, the Honda Pilot might be one of the SUVs most in need of a big bump in power and soon. It’s used the same V6 for a very long time and still makes the same 282 hp (210 kW) and 262 lb-ft (354 Nm) of torque that it did back in 2016.
That’s when the previous generation debuted. OK, well technically, it makes 2 hp more but nobody is going to feel that difference. On top of that, Honda has better competition these days from Hyundai, Kia, and Jeep so adding a bit of power could help it stand out.
More: The Mirrors Could Fall Off Honda Pilot, Passport, Ridgeline, And Odyssey Models
The Pilot isn’t alone though. There are at least two more cars that I think need a lot more power. First, the MINI Cooper. Both the base and the S deserve more ponies under the hood and the evidence speaks for itself. Back in 2010, they made 118 hp (87 kW) and 172 hp (128 kW) respectively.
Today, more than a decade later, they make 134 (99 kW) and 189 (140 kW). It’s fine to have a lower-powered small car but the MINI deserves a lot more progress, especially considering how much more fun it can be with about 220 ponies (164 kW) under the hood.
Finally, the Subaru WRX is lacking too. Sure, it makes 3 more horsepower than the outgoing generation did but that’s just nowhere near enough. Tack on the fact that the STI is no more and 271 hp (202 kW) just doesn’t do it for me. What do you think? What new model desperately needs more power? Let us know in the comments below!
