Fast hot hatches are the best way to get into sports cars. If you are looking to enjoy fun on weekend drives but at the same time have a comfortable daily all-arounder, a hot hatch is the way to go. Another advantage of hot hatches is that they are often not expensive to own or run. This is even more true of used sports hatchbacks, which will not hit you with massive depreciation. Here are some of the most interesting fast hot hatches that won’t break the bank.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (7th generation; 2013 – 2020)
When comparing the performance of the newest Golf GTI 8th generation and its predecessor, the 7th generation comes out as one of the perfect fast hot hatches that won’t break the bank. It holds up well with the newest model, yet it can be had for a fraction of its cost. The Golf GTI gets you one of the most comfortable, yet sporty cars in the segment.
Of course, the most important thing that makes a good hot hatch is the engine. Here, Volkswagen has used a 2.0 TSI turbocharged four-cylinder which sends 217 hp and 258 lb.-ft of torque to the front wheels using either a 6-speed DSG automatic or a more engaging 6-speed manual transmission.
However, there are spicier versions of the GTI. Out of the factory, the Golf could have been equipped with a Performance Package which increased the engine stats to 227 hp. A GTI TCR model was also available in limited production numbers.
This is the rarest GTI you will stumble upon, and if you were not sure whether the standard GTI would have been powerful enough for you, this model will solve the issue. It raised the peak power to 286 hp and 280 lb.-ft. It also significantly improved the acceleration of the GTI from 6.4 to 5.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph.
What makes this the perfect hot hatch is the way it combines practicality and performance. It is by far the most practical of the cars on this list. Besides that, its understated design will be a great perk for those that are not really looking for a flashy car like the Honda Civic Type R.
With that said, it looks like a new car, not dated by any means. With Volkswagen only changing the design of the Golf through a slow evolution, rather than introducing drastic revolutionary changes, most people won’t even notice this is not a brand-new car.
It also does a great job at just being a good daily car. You don’t have to listen to loud pops and bangs and a revved-up engine when you don’t want to. It can be just as comfortable and quiet as a regular VW Golf but when you want to get going, it will happily oblige and provide you with lots of excitement.
Mini Cooper S (R56/57; 2006 – 2013)
The Mini Cooper is a legendary compact hatchback, which evolved from the original Mini hatch that was first introduced in 1959. Its iconic looks have transferred even to the modern iterations of the Mini and make it the most stylish model on this list.
The somewhat “cute” looks paired with the more aggressive accessories of the performance S model work well even more than fifteen years after its introduction. In fact, the Mini uses a similar recipe to VW with the Golf and implements only small design changes with each new generation. Just like with the Golf, some people will not be able to distinguish the 2006 Mini Cooper from the latest F57 generation.
There are two main aspects that attract people to the Mini Cooper S. The first one is the design, which we have just talked about. The second is, of course, the performance. The Cooper S makes 181 hp and 177 lb.-ft of torque from a 1.6L four-cylinder. Compared to the first generation of the modern-times Mini Cooper, the performance version now features a twin-scroll turbocharger instead of a supercharger.
Yes, the supercharger whine was perhaps more exciting, but the new engine still performs better in every single way. What is also interesting about this drivetrain is that it features an overboost function. As a result, the peak power can temporarily increase by an extra 15 lb.-ft of torque.
As with most hot hatches, the Cooper S sends power to the front wheels. With regards to transmissions, customers could choose between a 6-speed manual and an automatic gearbox. All of this results in a 0-60 time under 7 seconds. At the same time, the engine is very fuel efficient, which is nice to have on a “hot hatch that won’t break the bank.”
But this is not all. Being a Mini, the car is light by today’s standards. Only about 2,600 lbs. to be exact. This, paired with the small footprint makes it feel like a go-kart. The steering is extremely responsive and direct, the shifter has clearly defined paths, and the throttle response is instant. The looks and performance make this one of the best hot hatches that won’t break the bank.
Ford Focus RS (DYB; 2016 – 2018)
No list of hot hatches would be complete without a Ford Focus RS. Although not exactly affordable, the last-generation Focus RS is a true hatchback masterpiece. It has everything a car enthusiast needs — plenty of power, a six-speed manual transmission, and a capable torque vectoring all-wheel drive system to lay all that power down with conviction.
This is without a doubt one of the most capable hatchbacks on the market, which is why it is the go-to choice for many racing teams around the country. Powering the Focus RS is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-banger that delivers 350 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. It’s a temperamental unit that is quick to put down face-melting power to the wheels the moment you dump the clutch.
Ford has fitted this mini-monster with a short geared 6-speed-manual transmission that only amplifies the raw potential of the engine. Best of all, there is very little turbo lag, which means that you can stay in that boost sweet spot if you play your cards right.
When paired with a good set of tires, Focus RS goes through corners as if it’s on rails. The ridiculous amounts of grip will make even the experienced drivers question just how far can this thing be pushed around the corner.
However, such performance comes at a cost. The last generation Focus RS is a stiff ride that doesn’t take lightly to rough roads. If you’re looking for a comfortable daily, you might want to look somewhere else. The interior leaves a lot to be desired with its fairly cheap plastics and somewhat outdated infotainment system. That said, this isn’t the type of car you buy if you want the best in creature comforts. After all, Ford Focus RS is traditionally a track weapon adapted to be driven on the streets. As such, it checks all the right boxes.
Fast Hot Hatches — A Perfect Compromise
Hot hatches are a great way of getting a sports car and a daily commuter in one. If you choose the right model, you will be able to enjoy amazing sporty weekend drives, as well as use it comfortably for your everyday errands. These fast hot hatches are also great because of their relatively low prices. The value-for-money proposition is really spot on with these.
