Ever driven down the street and spotted a compact car that seemed to blur by with an aura of authority? And making you wonder, “What just happened?”. Well, you’ve likely just had an encounter with a hot hatchback. Unlike their tamer siblings, hot hatches are hatchback cars imbued with sports car genetics, offering better speed, tighter handling, and a remarkable road presence.
The term “hot hatch” itself is an evolution of the mundane word “hatchback,” typically a vehicle known for its practicality rather than speed. In a hot hatch, you get a compact package with an engine that often outperforms bigger, more cumbersome vehicles. In essence, you’re getting the best of both worlds. Compactness and high performance, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts of best hot hatch cars.
If your budget does not run to a Lamborghini or Ferrari, hot hatches are the perfect solution. Not only do the best go like a bomb, deliver adrenaline charged driving and also look cool, they are affordable too. This has seen some models go down in history since the hot hatch burst onto the scene in the 1970’s.
But which are the ten most iconic hot hatches ever made?
10 – Ford Fiesta RX 2
While the Focus and Escort listed later in this article shows how Ford have kept up with trends in this sector, the Fiesta RX2 remains where it all started for them. A true icon of 1980’s motoring, it was quick, looked fantastic and did not weigh much. It also threw up some neat design touches (like pepper pot alloys, front mounted spotlights and massive flared wheel arches) for maximum impact. The result was a staggering hot hatch that was something you just had to seen in. With no ABS or power steering (like most cars of the era), it also made you fully involved with the drive and constantly feeling like a real racing driver.
09 – Citroen Saxo VTS
Some hot hatches end up being universally loved by everyone – from boy racers to families who wanted a sportier ride and track day petrolheads. The Saxo VTS from Citroen is a great example and a superb 1990’s hot hatch. The chunky styling certainly caught the eye and gave it a distinct look which people remembered.
The peppy 1.6 litre 4 cylinder engine was perfect for this car and gave it lots of zip. This was also one of the sweetest handling hot hatches and always made you feel in control – even when pushing that speedometer. Torque was also pretty good – the 16 valve cylinder head combined with a free flowing exhaust system to generate 145Nm. As all the best hot hatches should be, this was a lightweight motor (around 900kg) which made the power provided by the engine feel all the more thrilling.
08 – SEAT Ibiza GTI
SEAT are well-known for their partnership with Volkswagen – this stunning 1990’s Ibiza GTI was an early product of this relationship. Based on the MK3 Golf, it was a much better car than this. A shorter wheelbase gave much improved handling for example, while stiffer suspension gave a race-like feel when behind the wheel. The Golf’s 4 cylinder petrol engine was thankfully in place and could get to 62mph in 8.6 seconds if you went for the 1.8 lite version. All in all, this was a great hot hatch to buy that was not only affordable and fast but also good looking.
07 – Ford Escort RS Turbo S1
Although another car from Ford might seem overkill, it is just impossible to leave the Escort RS Turbo S1 out. Like the Fiesta and Focus also included on this list, it is one of the most instantly recognisable hot hatches in history.
While the Turbo badge often left you underwhelmed in other cars of the time, it did not here. This saw the standard 1.6 litre Escort engine get fresh impetus due to intercooled induction. This boosted the total horsepower to 132 and made for a fun car that was full of personality to drive. Ford also included an innovative coupling-based slip diff for better power delivery and a stiffer chassis for a more enjoyable motoring experience. Recaro seats also made it a joy to sit in and the legendary looks it has still take the breath away to this day. Of course, a special mention should also be made at this point to the Escort RS Cosworth which was also a fabulous hot hatch to drive.
06 – Lancia Delta Integrale Evo 2
Tony Harrison, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
There is no doubt that this car was an instant hit for Lancia in the early 1990’s. Although ably helped by this car’s performance on the world rally circuit, it would probably have become a favourite anyway. Clearly taking a steer from the original Golf in terms of looks, it still managed to stand out as a separate car. Maybe this was down to a slightly flatter front-end and Lancia’s distinctive grille.
Delivering over 200bhp, this has enough oomph for tearing along any road or motorway. The Torsen diff was an engineering miracle too and helped the Evo 2 be joyous to steer in most conditions. It was also a hot hatch that looked the part. Momo wheels and Recaro’s gave the interior a young, cool feel at the time for example. Although it may not be seen as much now, it is still loved by true hot hatch fans.
05 – Ford Focus RS MK 1
What is not to like about this stunning car from Ford? From the precision delivered by the independent rear suspension to the aggressive, bullish stance it had on the road, it just worked on every level. Typical hot hatch drivers will also have loved the dazzling OZ alloy wheels and 2 liter engine. With over 200bhp thrown out by this beast, you had plenty of power and speed when pulling away at a junction. Torque steer also made it a real drivers car. And there were lots of gadgets inside the cockpit to play with too. Although the original MK1 Focus was a great hot hatch, this took it to another level.
04 – Honda Civic Type R EP3
The 2000’s were still a great time for this type of car and continued the good work done in previous decades. Honda were responsible for much of this, due to their monstrous Civic Type R EP3. Although the handling could be a bit frisky in the wet, it really was a thing of joy to drive. The naturally aspirated 1998c engine gave drivers 197bhp to play with and defined Honda’s VTEC approach.
The gearshift was smooth and the car had a distinctive look which really made it stand out. If you wanted a hot hatch which sounded fierce, drew admiring glances and was the ideal thing to be cruising about in with your boyfriend or girlfriend, this was it.
03 – Renault Clio Williams
Another iconic hot hatch was the small but perfectly formed Renault Clio Williams. The original Clio could well have had a place on our list anyway as it was compact, fun to drive and ideal for nipping around town in with friends. Partnering with respected F1 team Williams instantly gave this special edition more appeal though and a cooler vibe.
With upgraded suspension for a better ride and a front sub-frame from a Clip Cup racer, it was very nice to drive. The manual gearbox was smooth and enabled a truly involved driving experience. With a 2 litre engine chucking out around 148bhp, it could also shift too.
02 – VW Golf (MK 1)
Next to the Peugeot 205 GTI, this is still THE definitive hot hatch for many cat enthusiasts. Coming out in 1976, it really did make waves and make history at the time. It was after all the first time a sporty car which looked great and felt awesome to drive was affordable for many people. But why was it so good?
It certainly scores well for design and has that edgy, eye-catching feel all the best hot hatches have. Whether you were driving it or riding along as a passenger, the cool look of the MK 1 Golf made you want to be inside it. There is also zingy handling, an engine that sounds as good as it drives and decent acceleration to enjoy.
01 – Peugeot 205 GTI
Although this car might not be THE original hot hatch it is arguably the one which most people know and is most iconic. It is also the car which set the template for what hot hatches could and should do. With a sporty 3 door design, its 900kg kerbweight meant it did not have issues with inertia.
The 1.6 lire, 105bhp engine also give this car plenty of poke and saw it go like a train. The acceleration in particular was very impressive. With lively handling and precise steering, this was the perfect thing to be whizzing around in and tearing up country lanes. It was also a real looker. The famous red go-faster inserts still look amazing and the iconic bodyshape has rarely been bettered in this class.
There is no doubt that hot hatches have a proud history but also remain very popular in the present day. Their mixture of value for money prices, practicality, cool looks and sporty driving never gets old after all. Although more models will roll off the production line in future, the cars listed above are still the ten most iconic hot hatch cars ever.
The Irresistible Appeal of Hot Hatches
As we gear towards the conclusion, let’s explore why hot hatches have amassed a dedicated following, making them some of the best hot hatch cars you can find. The beauty of hot hatches lies in their multi-faceted appeal. These compact powerhouses are incredibly versatile. They are offering the driver an impressive array of features usually reserved for bigger, more expensive cars.
Firstly, hot hatches fit like a glove in urban settings. Their modest size allows for easy parking, better fuel efficiency. And zippy navigation through traffic, encapsulating the essence of fuel-efficient cars. Yet, when you open them up on an empty stretch, they give you the performance kick that reminds you why they’re called “hot” in the first place.
Secondly, let’s talk about the value proposition. You’re getting nearly sports-car-level performance without draining your bank account. It’s the bang-for-the-buck factor that’s hard to ignore, especially for those who crave speed but don’t want to sacrifice practicality. That’s precisely why naturally aspirated hot hatch options have gained a loyal customer base.
Unbeatable Value: Why These Second-Hand Hot Hatches Are Worth Your Attention
If you’ve been bitten by the hot hatch bug but aren’t keen on burning a hole in your wallet, you’re in luck. The second-hand market is teeming with options that provide all the thrill without the hefty price tag. Here, we’re talking about cars that offer top-tier performance, excellent durability, and lower depreciation—everything that makes a second-hand hot hatch a smart purchase.
The Ford Fiesta ST is a compact dynamo that has been winning hearts since its debut. Why does it make for a great second-hand buy? For starters, its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is as peppy as they come, delivering a respectable 197 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. Despite the muscle, it’s remarkably fuel-efficient, often getting better mileage than its less powerful peers. What’s more, the Fiesta ST has proven to be reliable, meaning you can skip the worries about unexpected repair costs.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI, often called the pioneer of hot hatches, is as iconic as they get. Even its older models exude a timeless charm, coupled with well-balanced performance and drivability. The GTI is lauded for its build quality and longevity, something that holds true for pre-owned units as well. Its well-crafted interiors and advanced safety features make it an excellent all-around vehicle. With the Golf GTI, you’re not just buying a car; you’re buying into a legacy.
The Honda Civic Type R is not your run-of-the-mill hatchback. With its aggressive styling and potent performance, it’s a car that you’d think twice about before labeling as ‘practical.’ Yet, it is. Civic Type Rs hold their value exceptionally well, which makes them an excellent second-hand investment. Older models often come equipped with modern amenities, and the robust engineering means you’re less likely to deal with breakdowns.
Ah, the MINI Cooper S, a car that combines British charm with German engineering. Its 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine offers an output of 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. What sets the MINI apart is its distinct, vintage-inspired look and go-kart-like handling. A pre-owned Cooper S comes at a fraction of the price of a new one while still offering much of its youthful energy and charm.
Last but not least, let’s not forget the Renault Clio RS. This French marvel is an underrated gem in the second-hand hot hatch market. Known for its sheer agility and a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that produces 197 horsepower, the Clio RS offers one of the most thrilling driving experiences. It may not have the brand recognition of a Golf GTI or a Fiesta ST in certain markets. But it’s a best hot hatch contender in its own right, especially when you factor in the lower second-hand prices.
So there you have it. Five second-hand hot hatches that offer all the bells and whistles of their brand-new counterparts, without the intimidating price tag. Whether it’s reliability, performance, or sheer driving pleasure you’re after, these pre-owned warriors have got you covered.