Performance cars/hot hatches - part two
* Our guide to what to buy * Get the most for your money * Top fives in key categories...
Renault Twingo Renaultsport
Price 11,750
Target Price 11,134
Economy 40.4mpg
CO2 165g/km
For a shade under 12,000, it's hard to think of a better-handling, supermini-based hot hatch - except the Mini Cooper, of course.
Your scrapping allowance could reduce that 12k to standard supermini money, too. And what do you get for your cash? Well, for starters, brilliant grip and body control, distinctive looks, and nimble, quick steering. Cheap insurance, strong resale values and 40.4mpg average economy make it a pretty irresistible package.
Fiat 500 Abarth
Price 13,600
Target Price 13,600
Economy 43.4mpg
CO2 155g/km
The 500 Abarth looks hot and its fiery, turbocharged engine always keeps this little hatch on the boil.
With 133bhp, it's pretty brisk and grips like a limpet, delivering a thoroughly enjoyable drive. If the steering had a bit more feel, we're sure this car would be higher up the list.
That apart, its distinctive looks, good economy and strong resale values make the Abarth worth serious consideration.
Honda Civic Type R GT
Price 19,275
Target Price 18,054
Economy 31.0mpg
CO2 215g/km
In today's hot-hatch market, 198bhp doesn't sound like much, but it's enough to give the Civic Type R a 0-62mph time of 6.6sec and a top speed of 147mph not bad for a pocket rocket that's yours for less than 19,000.
In fact, it's one of the rawest, most rewarding hot hatches you can buy. And there's more to its appeal than B-road bashing - it's a roomy family hatch with a good, well-shaped boot.
