Best Hot Hatchbacks of 2025 and 2026

The Edmunds experts test drive hot hatchback contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank hot hatchbacks

Best Hot hatches

Start with a sensible small hatchback, add significant power and handling upgrades, and throw in extra style for good measure. What's not to like?

1st
Edmunds Rating
8.6/10
The Civic Type R is friendly, flexible and practical while managing to push the performance envelope of a front-wheel-drive car. Its combination of four usable seats, a sizable trunk and agreeable ride quality makes it a highly desirable daily driver.
MSRP
$45,595
Combined MPG
24
2nd
Edmunds Rating
8.3/10
If you're looking for a little more comfort and sophistication than what the typical hot hatch offers, the Golf R could be your answer. Expensive at first glance, the R vindicates its price with well-rounded performance, practicality and mature styling.
MSRP
$45,665 - $46,465
Combined MPG
23 - 25
3rd
Edmunds Rating
8.2/10
The Volkswagen GTI is simply fun to drive all the time, thanks to a stout engine and sharp handling. It's comfortable and offers plenty of cargo space too. It's a winning formula that's truly hard to top as far as hot hatches go.
MSRP
$31,965 - $40,825
Combined MPG
27
4th
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The Toyota GR Corolla bears only a passing resemblance to the mild-mannered sedan it shares a name with. Its 300-horsepower engine, light weight and grippy handling make it a riot to drive. The interior is a bit bare, but otherwise we're big fans.
MSRP
$38,860 - $47,515
Combined MPG
22 - 24
5th
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The 2025 Mini Cooper is a fresh take on the company's most iconic model. It's chock-full of personality and works well as an everyday commuter. Unfortunately, the zippy performance that made previous Coopers so fun to drive is largely absent in this newest model.
MSRP
$28,950 - $48,100
Combined MPG
32