Which hot hatch?

I am looking to buy a hot hatch for under £20,000 used that must match four criteria: More than 200bhp, Traction control can be fully disengaged (car will be taken to trackdays), a towbar can be fitted...

Buying a Fiesta ST - should I beef up its security?

I am taking delivery of a new Ford Fiesta ST2 in a couple of days. As you are no doubt aware, it has an engine immobiliser and a Thatcham Cat 1 alarm. Would you recommend any further security measures,...

Can a Leon ST FR 1.4 engine really perform?

I am looking to buy a SEAT Leon ST FR. I like the looks and equipment but am not convinced a 1.4l engine can really perform, though the dealer says it is more than capable and 1.8l TSI is not necessary....

Buying a hot hatch - what's best?

I am considering the MINI Cooper S - the new version yet to be released. But, using MINI's online configurator and adding 90% of the options on offer, the price unsurprisingly rockets by £10,000 bringing...

Buying a small hot hatch - what's best?

I have a Honda civic I want to change for a smaller car. I was considering the Ford Fiesta ST for the acceleration, but I have been told the ride is very stiff. Can you suggest an alternative with similar...

Mini Coopers - are they reliable?

I am considering buying a 2002 Mini Cooper. The car is immaculate, but the gearbox feels clunky during the test drive. I have read and heard about Mini gearbox problems so am wary. Are they all a little...

Buying a hot hatch for £8k - what would you recommend?

I want to buy a hot hatch for £8000 and have narrowed my search to a 2010 Peugeot 308 GT or a 2006 Volkswagen Golf GTi. Which would you buy?

Can you recommend a fun car for £25,000?

I am looking for a new/nearly new car, budget up to £25,000. I do not transport, children, dogs or surfboards, therefore, have a very wide choice. I do about 10,000 miles a year, minimum journey 15 miles....

What's the best hot hatch?

I am finally looking to replace my cherished Renault Clio 182. I have up to £20,000 to spend and want another hot hatch that will handle great and perform like a little sports car. Can you recommend three...

Buying a Mini Cooper - should I wait for the new model?

I was about to place an order for the current mk 2 MIni Cooper when I learned that a new mark 3 model was shortly to be released. My dealer has advised that the new model will not be available until March...