best hot hatch 2023

Chasing the best hot hatch of 2023? That’s like picking a favourite Tim Tam—depends if you fancy subtle crunch or full sugar rush.

Here are the standouts and what they’re good (and not so good) at:

• Hyundai i30 N: Pros — rowdy exhaust, sharp chassis, cracking value. Cons — firm ride, thirsty when pushed.
• Honda Civic Type R: Pros — sublime steering and balance, brilliant seats. Cons — pricey, attention-grabbing styling and insurance.
• Volkswagen Golf R: Pros — all-weather speed, refined cabin. Cons — pricey options, infotainment quirks.
• Toyota GR Corolla: Pros — rally-bred grip, characterful triple. Cons — scarce supply, stiff about-town manners.

Pick the flavour that suits your roads, budget, and patience for firm suspension—there’s no wrong answer, just different grins per kilometre.

Test-drive them back-to-back and your right foot will write the conclusion.