What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

What's the best affordable hot hatch?

I'm looking at buying a hot hatch to complete my garage. I will be using it as one of my daily drivers, and the main purpose of it will be to have fun down the back roads. I have discounted the Hinda Civic Type R, as I found the infotainment system utterly dreadful and I couldn't live with that. Plus I have also discounted the M135i as I'm not a fan of the looks. I have also discounted the new Golf GTI as I didn't get that "feeling" when I drove it. I'm unsure of what to buy, any help would be appreciated. Budget isn't an issue, nor is fuel economy, but ideally it shouldn't be too expensive or too harsh on fuel. Currently, my favourite car that I've driven is the Focus ST. Should I buy this or something else?

Asked on 9 November 2020 by Alex Laughton

Answered by Andrew Brady
Try a Hyundai i30N Performance. It might be one of the more affordable hot hatches but we reckon it's also one of the best. It sounds terrific, is a riot to drive and has a better interior than the Civic. Chuck in a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty and it's a really good purchase. Otherwise, the Focus ST is a good choice, or also consider a Mercedes-AMG A35.
Tags: hot hatches
Similar questions
In your Top 10: Hot Hatches list, you rate the Ford Fiesta ST but what about the Focus ST with the 2.3 engine? Why no mention?
After 11 years and an incredible 285,000 miles, it’s finally about time to move on my Honda Civic Type R, or at least think about it. I make regular trips to my house in Spain, and tend fo keep my cars...
Am I searching for the holy grail? As an older chap I am now looking for slower thrills - seeking an enjoyable drive with the following features: Small car (city car/supermini/no larger than Golf), sub...
Related models
A real revelation of a hot hatch. Superb handling. Impressive performance. Seriously quick. Really good fun to drive. Undercuts most rivals on price. Traditional handbrake, not an electrical switch.
Mixes everyday usability with speed and driving fun. Family-sized interior space. Estate version is hugely practical. Impressive infotainment system.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer