Hot hatchbacks have always represented accessible performance combined with everyday usability. In many ways, hot hatches are the ultimate daily drivers. This segment mixes the passenger and cargo space of a modest but practical family vehicle with sports car performance. In fact, the engines and the power they develop really set the "hot" versions of hatchbacks into another league when compared to the base models.
As with all vehicle segments, fuel consumption and emissions are becoming ever more important. Governments are increasingly applying more and more stringent regulations, subjecting vehicles to increased taxation and urban usage penalties. The hatchback segment has traditionally offered cars with good fuel economy, especially compared to other segments such as sports cars and SUVs. Of course, hot hatches, have increased fuel consumption compared to the standard cars, but technology has enabled even these hottest versions to improve their efficiency. Here are the most fuel-efficient hot hatches of 2022.
8 Mazda 3 Turbo: 26 MPG
Available only in North America, the Mazda 3 Turbo utilizes the powertrain found in the Mazda 6 and CX-5. The 3 Turbo is powered by a turbocharged, 2.5-liter, four-cylinder producing 253 hp.
0-62 mph takes 5.6 seconds and the car's top speed is 130 mph. Fuel economy is rated at 26 MPG on the combined cycle. Sport mode sharpens the throttle response making it more aggressive and the car holds on to gears for longer, being an automatic-only car. The car has great handling characteristics as a result of the car's suspension damping.
7 Mercedes-Benz AMG A35: 27 MPG
As a Mercedes-Benz model carrying the AMG badge, the A35 sets high expectations. The car's turbocharged, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine produces enough power not to disappoint. Producing 302 hp, the car reaches 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds and the car can go on to reach a limited top speed of 155 mph.
Given the performance produced, the car does well to return a combined MPG figure of 27.
6 Toyota GR Yaris: 28 MPG
One of the most compact hatches on this list, the GR Yaris can definitely be considered a "pocket rocket". The 0-60 mph run takes 5.5 seconds and the car goes on to a limited top speed of 143 mph.
Powering the GR is a turbocharged, 3-cylinder, 1.6-liter engine producing 260 hp. The car returns a combined MPG of 28. The GR was designed by Toyota in order to allow homologation into the World Rally Championship (WRC) series.
5 Ford Fiesta ST: 28 MPG
The standard Ford Fiesta has always been one of the best handling hatchbacks in its class, the ST is no exception. The car's damping system, named Ride Control 1, stiffens up the suspension to aid hard cornering, then softens as the demand for grip lessens. Powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine, the car produces 200 hp. 0-60 mph takes 6.5 seconds and the top speed is 143 mph.
Compared to the previous version, the new ST's exhaust note has been strengthened and has a sportier sound. On the combined cycle, the ST returns 28 MPG.
4 BMW M135i: 31 MPG
As the hatchback version of the "Ultimate Driving Machine", buyers rightly expect a lot from an "M" badged 1 series. Updated for 2022, the M135i does not disappoint. The car's suspension springs and dampers have been upgraded with the intention of providing a more compliant ride with reduced body roll in the corners.
Similarly, the car has an upgraded exhaust system and the artificial exhaust note piped into the cabin has been altered with the intention of providing a sportier note. Up front sits a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder producing 306 hp. 60 mph is possible in 4.8 seconds and the car returns 31 MPG combined.
3 VW Polo GTI: 32 MPG
The Golf GTI's smaller sibling, the Polo GTI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 204 hp. The car returns 32 MPG on the combined cycle.
The car can go from 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds and then on to a top speed of 149 mph. This newest version of the Polo GTI really is like a mini Golf, the Volkswagen design language is clear to see.
2 VW Golf GTI: 32 MPG
Arguably, one of the most iconic and well known hot hatches. The current version of the GTI was released in 2020, the original having been released in June 1976. Powering the GTI is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder producing 245 hp.
The 0-60 mph run takes 6.4 seconds in the manual and 6.2 with the DSG dual-clutch automatic. The car's top speed is a limited 155 mph. The GTI returns 32 MPG combined.
1 Hyundai i20 N: 33 MPG
The Hyundai i20 N is the most fuel-efficient hot hatch on our list, returning a combined 33 MPG. Being Hyundai's first foray into the hot hatch market, the brand has certainly made an impact. Inspired by their World Rally Championship (WRC) car, the car makes an impact visually. The i20 N has enlarged air intakes, chunkier bumpers, a rear diffuser, and a roof-mounted spoiler.
Powering the i20 N is a turbocharged, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 204 hp. The 0-60 mph takes 6.7 seconds, with a top speed of 143 mph.