Hot hatches are brilliant. The formula is simple, yet effective: take an economical small run-around and inject some performance, improved handling and driver engagement. This can all result in a fantastically fun car which is also usable every day.
However, these amazing machines can still be out of reach for many people, whether it be a high price tag, annoying insurance costs, etc. Are there cheaper alternatives that still pack a sporty personality and entertaining drive?
Well, the simple answer is yes. Here are five of the best junior hot hatches – aka ‘warm hatches’ – on sale today…
Volkswagen Up GTI
The Up GTI first arrived in 2018 and currently is the hottest version of the compact city car. It’s been widely praised for harking back to a simpler time when the class was generally lighter, smaller and less powerful than today’s entries.
Despite only having a 113bhp 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder, the Up GTI’s light weight – it’s only slightly over 1,000kg – and compact size makes it super agile and entertaining on a good ol’ fashioned British B-road.
Ford Fiesta ST-Line 140
The Ford Fiesta arguably tops the supermini class in terms of the way it drives. As you can imagine, to fully experience the Fiesta’s capabilities, the ST is the route to take. On the other hand, for those not able to stretch that far, the ST-Line 140 is the next best thing.
It still has a sporty appeal, is a hoot to drive and has a decent amount of power – 138bhp, to be exact, from its 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine.
Suzuki Swift Sport
The Swift Sport has always been a favourite among enthusiasts. It’s consistently served as proof that to get behind the wheel of a proper driver’s car, you don’t need to spend a lot of money.
The latest version is no different. Sure, as with the rest of the cars on this list, the current Sport isn’t hugely powerful – it’s 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder only has 127bhp. However, get this car on a twisty road and it’s sure to put a smile on your face.
Abarth 595
Though based on the popular Fiat 500 city car, the Abarth 595 packs a particularly feisty personality. It’s 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder has 178bhp (in its most powerful offering), allowing for a sub-seven-second 0-60mph time.
It offers the most performance on this list, though not everyone will be fond of its miniscule size and bouncy ride.
Mini Cooper Hatch
With the Cooper S and JCW heralded as the fast Minis to buy, people often forget that the standard Cooper Hatch still packs quite the punch. It’ll certainly keep up with the likes of the Swift, Fiesta and Up GTI.
The Cooper’s 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder has a respectable 134bhp and is eager to accelerate at any rpm. Plus, you can brag that your car has the engine from BMW’s high-performance i8 sports car, which is a nice bonus.
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