Best "hot hatches" 04/28/2011
The term "hot hatch," coined in the 1980s, describes any compact hatchback with a souped-up engine tuned for performance. Popular weapons of choice for rally racers, these cars may look small, but they can certainly move. If you've got a need for speed but don't necessarily have the funds to back your performance obsession, consider these lean machines as your next ride of choice.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
It's not quite the car that started it all, but it's close. Many cite the original Volkswagen Rabbit GTI as the first "hot hatch," although some will say that other models were technically offered before it. Regardless, it was the German automaker who first popularized the movement, and the GTI name lives on to this day in the Golf. This car looks unassuming, but it packs a turbocharged inline-four that produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque - more than enough to power the car's light frame.
Honda Civic Si
Volkswagen may have invented the genre, but many would argue that Honda perfected it with the Civic Si. It doesn't have as much maximum torque as the GTI but it does make up the difference with a wider power band. It's also nearly $1,500 cheaper than the Volkswagen, making it a strong contender for performance junkies on a budget.
Mini Cooper S
If you're looking for speed, avoid the base model Mini Cooper and spend the $4,000 or so to upgrade to the Mini Cooper S. Hardened auto enthusiasts might scoff at the idea of purchasing a "cute" car like the Mini Cooper, but they won't be laughing when this beast speeds past them on the highway. Despite the nice performance upgrade, the Mini Cooper S still retains excellent fuel economy with an EPA-rated 27/35 mpgs.