The Ultimate Hot Hatch Buying Guide

You may or may not be familiar with the term 'hot hatchback'. If you are, do you know what really makes a hatchback 'hot'?

Well, wonder no more! We've put together the ultimate comprehensive hot hatchback buying guide, including a full rundown on the best hot hatchbacks on the market, both new and used.

What is a hot hatchback?

What happens when you take the spirit of a muscle car, and inject it into the familiar frame of a cost effective, reliable and driver friendly hatchback?

The term 'hot hatchback' emerged in the UK in around 1983, quickly being shortened to the much trendier 'hot hatch'. Generally regarded as higher-end performance version of the more common hatchback, hot hatchbacks come with power built in, making them a firm favourite with thrill seeking drivers.

Hot hatchbacks expertly balance cost, performance, style and functionality and pack a whole lot of passion into their relatively compact designs.

Are sporty hatchbacks and hot hatchbacks the same?

The short answer is - yes! Many of the hatchbacks you would consider 'sporty' also fit under the same umbrella as hot hatchbacks, with both featuring high performance engines, sporty designs and features that give them a competitive edge on your average hatchback.

5 reasons to buy a hot hatchback

1. They come with great features, even in their most basic form
2. They're very practical, and have plenty of interior space
3. They are ridiculously fun to drive
4. They're the perfect mix of style and substance
5. There's a massive range of styles, designs and features to suit every driver - from boy racers to flourishing families

What to look for when buying a hot hatchback

When shopping for a new hot hatchback, there are a few things you should take into consideration:

• Fuel efficiency - hot hatches are on the smaller end of the car size spectrum, but that doesn't automatically mean they all come with great fuel economy. Some of the more powerful models may take a hit when it comes to miles per gallon (mpg).


• A fun, comfortable drive - Hot hatchbacks have a very different feel to them than their standard counterparts. Some have stiffer suspensions and as such, can change how the ride feels. It's always useful to take into consideration they type of roads you tend to drive on, and if you prefer a softer or stiffer drive.


• Interior space - Are you a sporting enthusiast who needs room for sizeable equipment, or perhaps you have a growing family and could use the boot space, or maybe you're a single professional who values style over practicality. Whatever your needs, each hot hatchback varies when it comes to interior space, so check that it fits with your needs.

Best used hot hatchbacks on the market currently

Hot hatchbacks are as popular now as they've ever been, and the range of used models currently up for grabs echoes that. Here are some of our top picks for the best used hot hatchbacks on the market:

Affordable hot hatchbacks

While some of the more advanced hot hatchbacks can carry with them a heftier price tag, there are plenty of models that are kinder to your bank balance, without scrimping on performance and practicality. Here are just a few of our favourites:

Best 4-wheel drive hot hatchbacks

Those looking for that extra injection of power and stability can opt for a 4-wheel hot hatchback option, giving you the best driving experience on any road and in any weather condition. Here are a few of our favourites:

Best 5 door hot hatchbacks

Giving you extra levels of accessibility, 5 door hot hatchbacks are ideal for larger families, pet owners, or designated drivers who could use an extra entrance/exit route for their buddies. Here are some of our picks:

Fastest hot hatchbacks

If speed is your priority, these hot hatchbacks come out on top:

Best diesel hot hatchbacks

Most reliable hot hatchbacks