When deciding on buying or leasing your next car, considering the configuration of your vehicle is just as important as any other element. There are many different car configurations on the market, but the hot hatch is quickly becoming one of the hottest choices.
The hot hatch is one such car configuration that is taking the Australian car market by storm, being a smaller vehicle with a difference. This article will detail what a hot hatch is, along with some of the best hot hatches Australia has available for you to take on the road.
What is a hot hatch?
The term “hot hatch” was originally coined in the 1980s, however it’s important to know what it means so you can pick one out from a group of vehicles.
Hot hatches are a variation on the standard hatchback body type - maintaining the same general shape as other hatchbacks while including additional features that give turn it into a performance-focused vehicle.
These features can include a more powerful engine, improved suspension and brakes, and even cosmetic changes to make the car look sportier. A six speed manual gearbox, all wheel drive and clutch pedal are all components that can be seen in a hot hatchback.
While there are many different hot hatches on the market from various manufacturers, they all have one common goal: to be a fun vehicle that is still practical enough for day-to-day use.
Hot hatches to watch
Based on the above explanation, it’s clear to see why hot hatches are highly sought after by those looking at new cars - so we’ve decided to help out by providing a list of some of the best hot hatches Australia has to offer their drivers.
Some hot hatches can’t make this list due to unavailability as of right now in Australia - such as the VW Golf GTI Clubsport - but the below range shows diverse options with plenty of pros and cons across each.
Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport
Sleek, sporty and economical, the Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport is packed full of features that offers outstanding performance for a smooth drive every time while maintaining the safety that comes with 5-star ANCAP safety rating vehicles.
With a 2.0L Dynamic Force direct-injection petrol engine with auto CVT under the hood for impressive fuel efficiency, 16″ alloy wheels, a reversing camera and tech features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, your drive will be a fun one throughout the entire life of the car.
Hyundai i30 N
Being advertised as Hyundai’s first true high-performance car, the i30 N was designed to maximise fun for its drivers - and once you take a look, we’re sure you won’t disagree.
As a performance-focused rendition of Hyundai’s popular i30 model, it comes fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, performance brakes and a sports exhaust that puts it in a league of its own when compare to other standard hatchbacks.
Mazda 3 Pure G20
The Mazda 3 Pure G20 hatch is a well-equipped small car that certainly ticks the right boxes when it comes to desirability. If you’re looking for a small car which offers luxurious appeal, the latest in tech and a sleek interior, this hot hatch may be for you.
The G20 is filled to the brim with safety and technical features such as a rear cross traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitor, LED headlights, 8.8-inch widescreen entertainment system, and more. Bundle all of these with the 2.0L engine, and you have a powerful hatch that stands out among other small cars.
Ford Fiesta ST
It took some time for the Fiesta ST to arrive in Australia - but plenty will agree that it is worth the wait once you take a good look. With performance at the forefront of the design, this front wheel drive hot hatch is a sight to behold.
Presenting 18-inch alloy wheels, 320Nm of torque and launch control on the performance end, alongside emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist on the safety end, there’s a lot to love about Ford’s hot hatch offering.
Hyundai IONIQ Elite
The Hyundai IONIQ was one of the cars we took a look at when discussing the cheapest electric cars in Australia. However, the IONIQ Elite is also a car to consider as a solid option for those looking at hot hatches.
On top of the 200km driving range on a single charge, cruise control, rear view camera and parking sensors, auto headlights and SmartSense features, the car feels like a go kart pocket rocket when driving - something that those keen for a hot hatch want in their car.
Honda Civic Type R
The Civic has been a part of Honda’s line up for a while, and the Honda Civic Type R is an established class above - being developed since 1997 as a seriously heated hot hatch. The manufacturers knew how to make this car appealing, packing an improved 2.0L VTEC turbo engine with the power and torque to get from 0-100km in 5.7 seconds.
Also coming with three adaptive driving modes means you can choose between a more casual drive or a sportier one with ease. The light shell, multi-link suspension and technology features make this a major consideration when deciding on hot hatches.
Get your hot hatch with a novated lease from easi
Whether you end up going with one of the fast hot hatches listed above or another vehicle entirely, EasiFleet are the go to specialists for getting you into your new car with minimal hassle. Our experienced team are car leasing experts - meaning we can use our knowledge to deliver effective business car solutions every time.
Our vehicle leasing options are diverse and designed with flexibility in mind. To view our wide range of vehicle lease options - ranging from utes, to large SUVs, to hot hatchbacks - contact one of our staff today.
