There is nothing quite like a hot hatch in our opinion. In fact, a speedy hatch is probably my favourite type of car, and I would take one over many more expensive and exotic offerings.
Often based on compact or subcompact hatchbacks, hot hatches are usually fitted with powerful engines, sporty suspension, and aggressive styling, breathing new life into a traditionally sensible segment. As a result, they entice buyers who are seeking excitement without sacrificing daily functionality.
While you could argue that manufacturers have been producing a form of hot hatchbacks since the 1960s with the introduction of cars like the Mini Cooper, the segment really took off in the seventies and eighties with models like the Volkswagen Golf GTi, the Peugeot 205 GTi, and the Renault Gordini Turbo
Today, hot hatchbacks have not only grown in size, but also performance as well, with the release of cars like the 2023 Civic Type R, the Toyota GR Corolla, and the Ford Focus RS Mk3.
Table of Contents
What Is a Hot Hatchback?
A hot hatchback, often shortened to hot hatch, refers to a high-performance version of a regular hatchback car. These vehicles maintain the practicality of a hatchback while offering increased power, better handling, and upgraded features to create a sportier driving experience.
One of the main characteristics of a hot hatch is its engine. Compared to typical hatchbacks, hot hatches usually have a gruntier engine under the hood that provides more speed when you stamp on the pedal. Many hot hatches feature turbocharged engines, but some, like the VW Golf R32, were upgraded with more powerful naturally aspirated motors.
Improved handling is another characteristic of hot hatches, and is arguably even more important than the increased power when it comes to making one of these cars. Car manufacturers employ a variety of techniques to achieve better face pulling fun, such as lowering the suspension, using stiffer springs and dampers, and installing larger brakes. These modifications work together to provide drivers with a more engaging and responsive experience behind the wheel.
Another key ingredient of the hot hatch formula is looks. Styling can be subtle or outlandish, but there is always something to set a hot hatch apart from its standard siblings. For example, the VW’s Golf R series of hot hatches have always had pretty subtle styling, but Honda’s Type R Civics go the opposite way (although the 2023 Civic Type R has received a slightly more toned down appearance compared to the previous generation).
History and Evolution
The Birth of Hot Hatchbacks
Despite there being a few fast hatchbacks in the sixties, it is the first generation Volkswagen Golf GTi that is really seen as the grandfather of the segment. Manufacturers like Peugeot, Renault and Ford soon took notice of the popularity of the Golf GTi and the segment soon exploded with cars like the 205 GTi, Fiesta XR2, the Lancia Delta HF Turbo, and Renault 5 GT Turbo. Japanese manufacturers then followed suit with their own hot hatches like the Mazda 323 4×4 Turbo, the Mitsubishi Colt Turbo, and more.
The hot hatch segment further expanded in the nineties, and Honda would release arguably one of the most loved and best known hatches today, the Civic Type R.
At the time of writing this article, the most popular hot hatches include the likes of the VW Golf GTi and Golf R, the Honda Civic Type R, the Ford Focus RS and ST, the Hyundai i30 N, the Toyota Corolla GR and Yaris GR, and much more.
Some Popular Hot Hatchback Models Over the Years
Volkswagen Golf GTI
As we have already mentioned, the Volkswagen Golf GTi is seem as the first hot hatch and it is still an extremely popular model today. While the R series of Golfs may be hotter, the GTi is still seen as a good hot hatchback that can be used for everyday driving.
Honda Civic Type R
While the first generation is where things started, it was really the second gen model that made the Civic Type R one of the most popular hot hatches around. Honda has continued to release banger after banger and the latest Civic Type R is seen by many as the best hot hatch around today, despite very stiff competition from the likes of Toyota, Volkswagen, and more.
Lancia Delta
Lancia may be a shell of its former self, but there was a time when they made some of the world’s greatest cars and arguably the best hot hatch of its time, the Delta Integrale. While Lancia would start off with a two-wheel drive performance hatch, it is really the four-wheel drive Integrale that is seen as a hot hatch monster. It destroyed the competition in the world of rallying and it could make mincemeat of many more expensive cars on regular roads.
Ford Focus RS and Focus ST
Ford has long produced some fantastic hot hatches and the Focus RS and Focus ST models have been some of their best. The second generation Focus RS was ojne of the most powerful hot hatches of its time, and the company’s designers went even further with the third gen model.
Peugeot 205 GTi
No hot hatch list could be complete without the arguably one of the most loved and best hot hatches ever, the Peugeot 205 GTi. It was a response to the VW Golf GTi and many Peugeot enthusiasts believe that the company hasn’t produced a car that can match it since (although the latest 208 GTi is probably the closest they have got).
There are an absolute ton of other fantastic hot hatches from a whole load of other manufacturers, but these are just some of our favourites and if we list all the great ones we could be here all day. Cars like the Nissan Pulsar GTi R, the Toyota Yaris GR, the Hyundai i30 N and much more all deserve to be on this list, but the above are just a couple of examples of some of the best and most iconic.
What are Some Advantages of Owning a Hot Hatchback
Practicality and Space
Hot hatchbacks are known for their practicality and versatility. These vehicles offer a compact and efficient design, making them perfect for city driving and tight parking spaces. Despite their small size, hot hatchbacks provide ample cargo space due to their hatchback design. Most models come with folding rear seats, which allows owners to transport larger items when necessary. In addition, hot hatchbacks typically have a higher driving position, which offers better visibility and easier access for passengers.
Affordability and Running Costs
One of the main advantages of owning a hot hatchback is their affordability (although some models today have got surprisingly expensive). Hot hatchbacks are generally less expensive than their larger counterparts, making them more accessible for a wider range of budgets. The lower purchase price is often accompanied by lower running costs as well. Hot hatchbacks tend to have smaller engines, which are usually more fuel-efficient and produce lower emissions. This means that owners can save on fuel costs and may even qualify for tax savings and other incentives in some regions. Furthermore, insurance costs will likely be lower for a hot hatchback compared to a larger or more powerful vehicle.
Fun and Excitement
While hot hatchbacks are recognized for their practical benefits, they are also appealing due to their fun and exciting driving experience. These vehicles combine the benefits of hatchback practicality with the performance and handling characteristics of a sports car. Hot hatchbacks typically come with more powerful engines and sportier suspension setups, which provide an engaging driving experience. Their compact size and lower weight contribute to nimble handling, making them enjoyable to drive both in urban environments and on twisty backroads. Hot hatchbacks are known for their playful character, which adds a level of excitement to everyday driving tasks.
Closing Thoughts
A hot hatchback offers the perfect blend of practicality and performance for those who desire a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing everyday usability. These vehicles possess enhanced power, improved handling, and stylish designs that set them apart from their regular hatchback siblings.
Manufacturers have willingly catered to this niche market, crafting well-rounded hot hatchbacks that satisfy the needs of driving enthusiasts. Compact yet powerful engines, sport-tuned suspensions, and aggressive body kits are among the many features that can be found in a typical hot hatch.
In recent years, advancements in automotive technology have resulted in hot hatchbacks becoming more refined and efficient, making them even more appealing to a wider audience. Some of the most popular hot hatchbacks on today’s market include the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST, and Honda Civic Type R.
So for those seeking a versatile car with a sporty edge, a hot hatchback may just be the perfect choice.
