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Compare the best used hot hatches

High quality used hot hatchbacks from rated and reviewed dealers

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Rated 4.5/5 from 60,970 reviews

Best used hot hatches of 2024

When it comes to combining smile-inducing performance with everyday usability, then a hot hatch is hard to beat. If you also want the best value for money, then take a look at some of the best used hot hatches you can buy today.

Honda Civic Type R

1. Honda Civic Type R (2016-2022)

9/10
Honda Civic Type R review
A new Honda Civic Type R has just been revealed, and that’s great news for bargain hunters looking for a good deal on the previous-gen model. It’s a rabid performer thanks to a 320hp turbocharged motor that will launch you from 0-62mph in just 5.8-seconds. The looks are pretty striking thanks to the crazy wing and extrovert styling, but it’s just as practical as a regular hatchback.
Toyota GR Yaris

2. Toyota GR Yaris (2020-present)

10/10
Toyota GR Yaris review
The Toyota GR Yaris is essentially a rally car for the road, and is all the better for it. Sure, it's not the most practical car and the interior could be a little nicer, but for vehicles outside of a Caterham are as mechanically engaging and characterful. It's also sold out from new until 2023 when Toyota is expected to issue new stock allocation for the UK, making a pre-loved model your only option for now.
Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020)

3. Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020)

8/10
Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020) review
For a quick and luxurious hatchback that offers serious pace regardless of the weather, the previous-generation Audi S3 is a great choice (the current model is pictured). Available in both three and five door versions, the 305hp 2.0-litre turbocharged motor will blast you to 62mph in around 5.0-seconds. It’s not much slower in the wet.
BMW M135i

4. BMW M140i (2015-2019)

8/10
BMW M135i review
The old adage ‘they don’t make ‘em like they used to’ certainly applies in the case of the BMW M140i. Whereas the new M135i is all-wheel-drive and comes fitted with a four-cylinder engine, the older M140i has a stonking 340hp 3.0-litre inline-six under its bonnet sending power to the rear wheels (the current car is pictured). That makes it sound and drive just like a BMW should. Get one before it’s too late.
Ford Fiesta ST

5. Ford Fiesta ST (2017-2022)

8/10
Ford Fiesta ST review
The current generation Ford Fiesta ST has been on sale since 2017. This means you can find some great used deals out there without having to look at the previous gen models. That’s great because the Fiesta ST is eager and great fun drive, and with 200bhp on tap it’s quick, too
Hyundai i30 N

6. Hyundai i30 N (2016-present)

8/10
Hyundai i30 N review
The Hyundai i30N trades a bit of comfort and refinement for one of the most immersive hot hatch driving experiences around. It produces 280hp (247hp versions were available pre-2021) and can be had with a manual transmission which is rare these days.
Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG (2015-2019)

7. Mercedes-AMG A45 (2015-2019)

8/10
Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG (2015-2019) review
When it was launched in 2015, the 360hp Mercedes-AMG A45 had the most powerful turbocharged 2.0-litre engine in production. Thanks to a standard all-wheel-drive setup, it was credited with a 4.2-second 0-62mph time. That’s still quick today and prices for these first-gen models are now far more affordable.
MINI 3-Door Hatch

8. MINI Cooper S (2014-present)

7/10
MINI 3-Door Hatch review
Thanks to constant updates, you’d never guess that the current generation MINI has been around since 2014. In 184hp Cooper S trim it has always been a nippy performer, and the facelifted post-2018 models offer serious value and a great driving experience.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013-2020)

9. Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013-2020)

8/10
Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013-2020) review
The Golf GTI has long been the benchmark hot hatch. It arguably peaked in MK7 form (the current, Mk8 is pictured), thanks to a near-perfect mix of usable performance and daily driving practicality. It also had a far less frustrating infotainment system than the ones in use today. Used values remain strong, showing just how popular the MK7 GTI remains today.
Peugeot 208 GTi

10. Peugeot 208 GTI (2015-2019)

8/10
Peugeot 208 GTi review
Quick Peugeot hatchbacks have almost always been a hoot to drive, the 208 GTi didn’t change this perception. It delivered a strong 205hp from its 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, making it quicker than most of its direct alternatives. Used examples are very keenly priced, and they’re well equipped and offer a great ride on bumpy roads.

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Advice about used hot hatches

Used hot hatch FAQs

If you are after an enjoyable hot hatch driving experience and want great value, the BMW M140i is a good choice. Its replacement no longer offers a six-cylinder engine or rear-wheel-drive, which makes it a desirable used car buy and should translate into a strong residual value.

The VW Golf GTI has generally both proven to be a reliable car, while the Hyundai i30N comes with the benefit of a five-year unlimited-mileage warranty, as long as it's been serviced in-line with manufacturer recommendations. Speaking of which, as hot hatches can live hard lives, insist on an impeccable service history when buying used.

Walk away if the hot hatch you are interested in doesn’t have a full service history or looks to have been abused. Check for unevenly worn tyres, smoking exhaust on start-up, hesitant power delivery and signs of modifications. This could include aftermarket exhausts, brakes, mags and engine remaps.

Aside from hot hatches that have not been cared for by their previous owners, your personal preferences will dictate which cars you should avoid. 

If you are happy to forego comfort and practicality for an intense driving experience then the unhinged Abarth 595 may be a great option. It would make for a rather uncomfortable daily driver though. Similarly, a VW Golf GTI is smooth and refined, with plenty of practicality and luggage space. But if you want to be the first away from the lights at every opportunity, then you would be better off with a Golf R, Audi RS3 or Mercedes-AMG A45.

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