The pocket rocket is a go-kart for grown-ups, providing plenty of power, real driver engagement, and everyday usability.
The term "hot hatch" is one that's thrown around a lot, and frankly, I'm so tired of hearing it. It's a buzzword that confuses everyone into thinking that a car that accelerates quickly is great (I know this because I've tried to convince friends, family, and co-workers to buy a GTI more than once). But hot hatches are way more than just affordable performance cars. They have some unique designs, powertrains, and handling characteristics that make them really fun to drive.
A small "hot hatch" is meant to be an entertaining vehicle — even in the most mundane situations. They're easy to park, cheap to insure, and fun-to-drive little machines that can get you almost anywhere in the country. But what if they could be a little faster? Who wouldn't want to have a little more power under the hood? Well, if you've got 60 thousand dollars, you can get yourself the hottest of hot hatches.
Here are eight small hot hatches that you should consider buying:
The Mazda3 is a fun and engaging small car that makes for a great commuter car. It has an upscale interior but comes at a reasonable price compared to other cars in its class. Just don't fill 'er up with regular unleaded because it'll leave you wanting more power.
The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo comes standard with all-wheel drive, a rarity for a compact car. Both of its trims—Premium and Touring—have terrific handling that blends agility and comfort. You can only get a manual transmission if you opt for the less powerful trim.
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The GTI is one of the most popular hot hatchbacks on the market today. That fact only became truer after Subaru discontinued its WRX hatchback in 2014. With a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower, a standard six-speed manual or optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the GTI is certainly a force to be reckoned with.
The GTI is a fast, fun-to-drive car with good handling and cornering abilities. It also has a comfortable ride, and the cabin features an 8.25-inch touchscreen for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with four USB ports and wireless device charging.
The Honda Civic is a decent everyday car for the average American family, but it becomes something completely different when it wears Honda's iconic 'Type-R' badge. The Civic Type-R is usually among the most anticipated Japanese vehicles, which is why many people were excited when Honda announced the new Civic Type-R a few months ago.
The previous-generation FK8 Civic still makes a wonderful hot hatch today, with its 316-hp turbo four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission and an elaborate body kit that not only makes it look sportier than most cars on this list but also boosts aerodynamic efficiency.
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The regular Ford Fiesta has long been considered one of the best-handling cars in its class, and with good reason. The ST variant builds on this reputation by offering an enthusiastic driver a great driving experience. Powering the ST is a 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost, which is designed to be both powerful and efficient.
The Focus ST, the larger brother of the Fiesta, has garnered a cult following over the years. The Fiesta ST proves to be an equally excellent pocket rocket, producing 197 hp and achieving 60 mph in just over 6 seconds. Its top speed is 144 mph.
The Hyundai Veloster is a unique hatchback with an asymmetrical design. It has one driver's side door and two passenger's side doors, making curbside access to the back seat easy without disrupting the driver. With the rear seats folded down, you get up to 44.5 cubic feet of cargo space.
The Veloster N is Hyundai's sporty version of its Veloster compact car. It features a 275-horsepower turbocharged engine, adaptive suspension, summer performance tires, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a variable exhaust. The Veloster N will reportedly be discontinued after the 2022 model year, so get one while you still can!
The Toyota Yaris GR is a pocket rocket. Don't be fooled by its compact dimensions — this car has serious speed. Developed by Toyota's motorsport division Gazoo Racing, the Yaris GR was designed to appeal to gearheads.
The car has an all-wheel drive configuration and is powered by a 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 268 hp. This enables the GR to go from 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds, which is impressive for its type of car. The top speed is similarly impressive for the type of car, topping out at 143 mph.
Although the Volkswagen GTI is considered by many to be the first modern hot hatch, the Mini Cooper has been offering nimble hatchback performance since the 1960s. Today it is larger and far more upscale, but it still delivers go-kart-like handling in any trim you select. The Mini Cooper S adds a dash more performance, but the hottest hatch in the lineup is the John Cooper Works (JCW).
The Mini Cooper JCW comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a performance-tuned suspension, so it's no surprise that this spry runabout can handle corners with ease. It also includes an electronically locking front differential for added stability. And there are countless points of visual customization to make your Mini truly stand out from the crowd.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a hatchback based on the CLA sedan and the European A-Class. It's essentially a hatch with a bit more ground clearance, and just like most Mercedes vehicles, it has been given the AMG treatment.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA's turbocharged engine makes 382 horsepower and routes power to all four wheels through a dual-clutch automatic transmission. It can reach 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, and its sports exhaust, re-tuned suspension, and high-performance brakes improve performance. In addition, the stylish cabin features sports seats and ambient interior lighting.
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| Rank | Company | Country |
|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Volkswagen |
Germany |
| #2 |  Toyota |
Japan |
| #3 |  Stellantis |
Netherlands |
| #4 |  Mercedes-Benz Group |
Germany |
| #5 |  Ford Motor |
United States |
| Rank | Company | Country |
|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Michelin |
France |
| #2 |  Bridgestone |
Japan |
| #3 |  Continental |
Germany |
| #4 |  Goodyear |
United States |
| #5 |  Sumitomo |
Japan |
