If you’re in the market for a high-performance car that offers a blend of speed, practicality, and affordability, then a hot hatch is the way to go. These versatile adrenaline-pumping machines take a compact family hatchback and upgrade it with a more powerful engine, enhanced suspension, and brakes. With stylish body kits and sporty design accents, hot hatches seamlessly fit into your daily life while delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
The concept of hot hatches isn’t new, with the Volkswagen Golf GTI popularizing the genre almost half a century ago. Today, many car brands offer their own supercharged family runabouts. However, due to stricter emissions regulations, full-size hot hatches are evolving. While internal combustion engines still dominate, there’s a growing sense that these petrol-powered machines may be the last of their kind. In fact, our list includes an entry that runs on electricity rather than traditional fuel.
Therefore, now is the perfect time to purchase one of these quick and versatile hot hatches before they potentially become legislated out of existence. The question is, which one should you choose? Well, keep reading as we present our top 10 hot hatches for 2023.
1. Toyota GR Yaris
While it may push the boundaries of the “full-sized” definition, the Toyota GR Yaris is a standout performer that deserves the top spot on our list. Despite sharing a silhouette with a supermini, this Japanese gem offers unrivaled performance, exceptional handling, and a pure sporting character. It may not be as spacious or practical as some other hot hatches, but in terms of driving pleasure, it’s hard to beat.
The GR Yaris was initially developed as a rally homologation special. However, a rule change in the World Rally Championship made it redundant. Thankfully, Toyota’s CEO, Akio Toyoda, a true petrolhead, couldn’t bear to see this motorsport-inspired powerhouse go to waste. The brand’s commitment to delivering exciting driver’s cars led to the development of this unique high-performance masterpiece.
Beneath its striking exterior, the GR Yaris features a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 257bhp. Coupled with a four-wheel drive system (and optional torque-vectoring differentials), this car can sprint from 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds. Its chassis and suspension were developed in collaboration with Toyota Gazoo Racing’s WRC team, ensuring optimal handling on fast B-roads in any weather condition.