18. Volkswagen Golf R32
This list wouldn’t be complete without one proper hot hatch. There are lots of interesting compact cars with high power to choose from, new or used. In most cases, when it comes to the hot hatch class, the newest and the fastest is always the best choice. This list includes a forgotten gem: the Golf R32.
In 2003, Volkswagen took the Mk4 body shell and installed the best hardware it had in the early 2000s. That meant the R32 had intelligent all-wheel drive, 240 HP from a 3.2-liter V6 engine, a luxury interior and a host of electronic aids. This wasn’t the first AWD hot hatch or the fastest despite its 0 to 60 mph time of 6.4 seconds. However, it was the first “Uber” hatch that combined luxury and effortless high-speed cruising with exciting driving dynamics.
Also, this was the first hot hatch to use a DSG transmission, which is standard today in this class. All of this makes the R32 a definitive future classic and an extremely capable everyday car. So, buy one now while they are still affordable.
These are 18 of the best machines most speed freaks can afford, even on a tight budget. If you want any of these gems, you need to move quickly since the prices are sure to rise soon.