Compare the best hot hatches
High quality hot hatchbacks from rated and reviewed dealers
Best hot hatches 2022
If you want big performance and big smiles on a (reasonably) small budget, then go for a hot hatchback. Not only will the best cars in this category provide a heap of driving fun, they’ll be practical enough for you to use them every day. Here are our top picks…
1. Toyota GR Yaris
£33,699
With four-wheel-drive and a punchy turbocharged motor, the Toyota GR Yaris feels like a WRC car that’s been converted for road use. It has a pretty cramped interior and a small boot, but it’s the most entertaining car of it’s kind currently out there.
2. Honda Civic Type R
£467* / month
(£25,495)
There are subtler looking cars than the Honda Civic Type R, but few are more satisfying to drive. Its precise handling, slick gearchange and powerful engine make it a standout car. It’s extremely practical, too.
3. Hyundai i20 N
£23,778
The Hyunda i20 N might be one of the smaller cars on this list, but it feels like it’s been made to take serious chunks out of your favourite race track. It’s handling is excellent, and it has a practical interior too. Its looks won’t be for everyone, though.
4. Mercedes-AMG A45 S
£826* / month
(£33,799)
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S has the most powerful production four-cylinder engine on the planet, kicking out no less than 421hp. Four-wheel drive makes it supremely agile in the twisties, and there’s a drift mode too. It is expensive, though.
5. Volkswagen Golf R
£340* / month
(£28,490)
The Volkswagen Golf R is just as at home on a twisty road as it is trundling around town. This four-wheel-drive hot hatchback is arguably the best all-rounder in the business. Fast, practical, and fun to drive, it ticks all the right boxes.
6. Ford Fiesta ST
£280* / month
(£16,200)
The Ford Fiesta ST might not be the most practical hot hatch on the planet, but it’s easily one of the most fun. It has a more playful demeanour than the hardcore i20 N, but it doesn’t look quite as in-your-face. It’s an excellent little car.
7. Audi RS3 Sportback
£669* / month
(£53,830)
With 400hp on tap, the Audi RS3 is one of the quickest hot hatchbacks on the planet. Immense four-wheel-drive traction means it’s fast in all weather conditions, and it has a plush interior. Some hot hatchbacks are more engaging though, and almost all are cheaper.
8. BMW M135i
£364* / month
(£27,980)
The BMW M135i mixes a plush, well made interior with impressive straight-line performance and four-wheel-drive all-weather traction. Its four-cylinder engine hits hard, but it lacks the character of the old six-cylinder model.
9. Ford Focus ST
£404* / month
(£24,490)
The Ford Focus ST is the quickest hot hatch Ford sells and it’s one of the most practical fast family cars around. Some less roomy alternatives are a little quicker, however.
10. Hyundai i30 N
£443* / month
(£31,490)
The Hyundai i30 N is a hardcore hot-hatch that’s fun to drive and impressively practical. It might be a little bit too aggressive for some, but on the right road it’s an absolute blast. It comes with impressive amounts of standard kit too.
