Man... this is such a hard choice! I'd probs have to go for the i30N as it's just rly cool, with the Scirocco R coming at a close 2nd and don't even start me on the sexy alfa giulietta gv
Wow😢. I didn’t know the Scirocco R was not AWD. Since it shares so many parts with the MK6 Golf R, I thought they were the same😮. Imagine buying one and finding out it’s not AWD😂.
Got to pick up one thing you said - the previous Pug to be a contender for the Golf GTi being the 205 GTi...I suppose it's fair, there wasn't much contest between the 306 GTI-6 and the contemporary Mk4 Golf GTi 😄 I feel like the FK2 is a very underrated Type R, never quite understood why the FK8 got relatively so much more hype, although I've not driven an FK2 myself. My choice from this list is unquestionably either the i30N or 308 GTi though, which is why those are 2 of the cars on my shortlist to replace the porker. Had 2 drives in each and the 308 is definitely ahead as it stands. New job starts Monday (with a 5 hour drive to get there) so I reckon I'll get back to some serious test drives in 2-3 weeks. Might even have a go in an FK2, since they're meant to be a bit madder than the FK8 which I found a bit dull, the FK2 might be just right...
I would happily vouch for the Pug, just beware front discs are expensive if you need them and, if you go for one get the front brake pistons swapped out to stainless steel, the originals will corrode over time. Not a big job, but worthwhile and saves a lot should the originals seize. Ben at Godspeed Brakes is the man for the pistons. Also aim for a facelift, it gets Android Auto/Apple car play and there is an issue with the fuel tank on the pre-facelift which I believe can be expensive to sort unless you have a warranty.
@@russellcopp6968 Very good info, much appreciated, thanks! Definitely aiming for 2017/18 since post-facelift for the tech is a must, while staying on the cheaper end purely since there's no point paying more if the car isn't any different. Going to be starting to look seriously at next cars over the next few weeks, got a list of about 10 cars to try (already tested 11...). If I get the Pug then Godspeed is about 50 miles so well within range, making a note of them. I'd grab one under dealer warranty for a year then either get the pistons done afterwards or switch cars - as of this week my commute is a 500 mile round trip which is what's triggering the change so a hot hatch may only be a short term thing. What I really want is an LC500 but they need another 1-2 years to mature (depreciate). My current Porsche is almost the perfect car for everything I need...except that commute, but my new manager is a German Porsche driver so I may get in trouble if I sell it 😄
Idk if they are in the UK but a Volo C30 T5. 2.5L Inline 5 with 230hp FWD. It sounds gorgeous, decent acceleration and it handles very well. They are pretty reliable, 6 speed manual. And go around between 5-10k Pounds
@@nikodaq The MK2 Focus was sold in huge volumes and at some point every street had one. They are pretty cheap to buy. And easier to find parts. Like body panels etc. On the other hand the C30 are not as common and keep in mind the Fords are way more spacious.
@Kyle Hudson 1st was non fault crash, bought the exact same replacement (Fastback N in shadow grey) then the Limited edition hatchback in black came out and I had to buy it!
@@callummcmullan5970 Had i30ns since 2019. Had a stint in a pre facelift 308 gti from 2017 in between, which didn't even hold a candle to the i30n. I am biased, but the i30n is a truly insane car that will never leave you disappointed. Especially if you can spend the extra coin on a facelift model with the bigger turbo. That solves the only woes of the original model, being slow straight line and launch speeds.
I have a 2018 Elantra GT Sport Ultimate, it’s the best car I’ve ever owened. Not quite as spec as the I30 or N series but still fun and sporty. It’s got plenty of “get up and go” in it and honestly good with gas. They’re kinda rare but if you can find one for $20,000 or less with less than 50,000 miles i’d go for it.
I just got a part exchange value of £27500 for my July 2021 I30N DCT. 11250 miles on the clock. I think it’ll go for sale for plus £30k. Used car market is strong.
I have the FK2 mapped to 370bhp. It’s hilarious to drive and the value for money is insane, often people stop and want to talk to me about it. So much fun. There’s not a lot else for 20k that will hold its value and give you so much.
@@stephenbroadstock76 I guess it’s subjective. I find the interior just fine, good quality and no rattles and I like the system, although I’m probably the only person that does lol. Those things aside the FK2 for me was just so much more engaging than anything else and it’s just wild. The cornering is another level, way beyond my friends golf R. With that said If it’s a daily the Cupra is a great choice. The FK2 you have to love to live with it daily, it’s pretty raw.
Peugeot GTI is a good car but the first gen Hyundai I30N is the best of the bunch. Most Golf GTI drivers hate the I30N as they are always behind one and not in front. The I30N does suffer from wheel hop possibly due to the variable dampers struggling some times to get the power to the tarmac. The Hyundai interior and infotainment is far better than similar age Audi's and VW cars although I would change the front seats as they can cause back ache on long trips for taller drivers and are quite bulky. I had one of the first UK I30N Performance cars but I think the lesser powered I30N 250 bhp might be a better car and more fun on standard shocks and springs.
Any Cupra 280,290,300 share the golf r engine but lighter due to no AWD but faster than the golf on a roll and comparatively cheaper. Also sub 8min Nurburgring time, with lots of scope to tune up to very big power.
Cupra is a solid choice imo, think it looks beaut and handles like a champ. Unfortunately I didn’t have the budget for one at the time my previous car died so I settled for the 1.8tsi Leon but it runs 220+ & 380nm of torque so plenty of go for me now I’m older lol!
Great video as always, but sorry fella the Pugs LSD is mechanical and only on the 270 version, which as a point also gets a tremendous set of Alcon brakes with 380mm disks 👍
@@stephandolby yup. Originally there was a 250 and a 270, the 270 having the lsd and good brakes. The more recent 260 replaced the 270, the drop in power I believe was down to modifications due to emissions, but it kept the lsd and brakes and, apparently, the 0-62 is still done in 6.
Looking at the comments I can see there is one car that no one has spoke about and that is a Mazda 3 mps mk2 260bhp 0-60 in 6sec and cheaper then most of the cars on this list
You ain’t getting any car for 250. You can get a scrap car and get more for it. 20k is a lot but in comparison with a new car for the same amount performance you’d have to spend double these days so it’s “cheap” in comparison
Remember that one drag race carwow did where someone got a brand new I30n for £21,000
crazy how much value these cars are holding
Do it my bro!!! same thing for cars under £10,000!! keep killing it JB
Man... this is such a hard choice! I'd probs have to go for the i30N as it's just rly cool, with the Scirocco R coming at a close 2nd
and don't even start me on the sexy alfa giulietta gv
Everything you said is exactly why I chose an i30n
I’m lucky enough to own a i30n it’s such a sick car so much fun
Well done on producing yet another good list J.B. 👍
Is the head gasket issue the only real issue associated with STi’s and is it on all the versions or model years or just certain ones?
Astra J VXR plenty under 10 grand now, had mine 6 years, great car.
Wow😢. I didn’t know the Scirocco R was not AWD. Since it shares so many parts with the MK6 Golf R, I thought they were the same😮. Imagine buying one and finding out it’s not AWD😂.
I rate the Impreza WRX STI, but the JDM variant is the best one, with the 2.0 block as well if you don't want head gasket failure 😉
Is the head gasket failures the only major issue associated with STis?
Well done on finding hot hatch backs that aren't CHEAP
The Abarth Punto Evo Supersport is a ton of fun too !
Fk2 type r no.1 ..
Incredible handling, cheap to run and there pretty reliable too. Plus the looks really stand out
What about focus ST-3?
Posted right as I’m looking at a Giulietta QV after going to BMW and missing my Mito too much
Get one bro they’re amazing
Volvo C30 T5’s seem like a fun bet too
Glad to see a Subaru, again lol
Got to pick up one thing you said - the previous Pug to be a contender for the Golf GTi being the 205 GTi...I suppose it's fair, there wasn't much contest between the 306 GTI-6 and the contemporary Mk4 Golf GTi 😄
I feel like the FK2 is a very underrated Type R, never quite understood why the FK8 got relatively so much more hype, although I've not driven an FK2 myself. My choice from this list is unquestionably either the i30N or 308 GTi though, which is why those are 2 of the cars on my shortlist to replace the porker. Had 2 drives in each and the 308 is definitely ahead as it stands. New job starts Monday (with a 5 hour drive to get there) so I reckon I'll get back to some serious test drives in 2-3 weeks. Might even have a go in an FK2, since they're meant to be a bit madder than the FK8 which I found a bit dull, the FK2 might be just right...
I would happily vouch for the Pug, just beware front discs are expensive if you need them and, if you go for one get the front brake pistons swapped out to stainless steel, the originals will corrode over time. Not a big job, but worthwhile and saves a lot should the originals seize. Ben at Godspeed Brakes is the man for the pistons. Also aim for a facelift, it gets Android Auto/Apple car play and there is an issue with the fuel tank on the pre-facelift which I believe can be expensive to sort unless you have a warranty.
@@russellcopp6968 Very good info, much appreciated, thanks! Definitely aiming for 2017/18 since post-facelift for the tech is a must, while staying on the cheaper end purely since there's no point paying more if the car isn't any different.
Going to be starting to look seriously at next cars over the next few weeks, got a list of about 10 cars to try (already tested 11...). If I get the Pug then Godspeed is about 50 miles so well within range, making a note of them. I'd grab one under dealer warranty for a year then either get the pistons done afterwards or switch cars - as of this week my commute is a 500 mile round trip which is what's triggering the change so a hot hatch may only be a short term thing. What I really want is an LC500 but they need another 1-2 years to mature (depreciate). My current Porsche is almost the perfect car for everything I need...except that commute, but my new manager is a German Porsche driver so I may get in trouble if I sell it 😄
Megane RS 280 or 300/Trophy? You can pick up the 280 one for 20K with low miles...
The i30 comes with a list of extras that puts even extra specced BM's to shame, all as standard.
No focus st ?
Idk if they are in the UK but a Volo C30 T5. 2.5L Inline 5 with 230hp FWD. It sounds gorgeous, decent acceleration and it handles very well. They are pretty reliable, 6 speed manual. And go around between 5-10k Pounds
same engine as a focus st, amazing engines
@@kabamarutv9976 yeah but a lot cheaper, heh.
@@nikodaq The MK2 Focus was sold in huge volumes and at some point every street had one. They are pretty cheap to buy. And easier to find parts. Like body panels etc. On the other hand the C30 are not as common and keep in mind the Fords are way more spacious.
@@kabamarutv9976 Well they go for over 20k here in Norway.
Looking at an I30 N Performance for a first car 😜. The quote I got was insanely cheap for what it is
I've had 3, insurance is easily the best thing going for it!
@@MaackyD you recommend them? Looking at it for my second car and seriously considering it
@@MaackyD Just curious, why've you had 3?
@Kyle Hudson 1st was non fault crash, bought the exact same replacement (Fastback N in shadow grey) then the Limited edition hatchback in black came out and I had to buy it!
@@callummcmullan5970 Had i30ns since 2019. Had a stint in a pre facelift 308 gti from 2017 in between, which didn't even hold a candle to the i30n. I am biased, but the i30n is a truly insane car that will never leave you disappointed. Especially if you can spend the extra coin on a facelift model with the bigger turbo. That solves the only woes of the original model, being slow straight line and launch speeds.
I have a 2018 Elantra GT Sport Ultimate, it’s the best car I’ve ever owened. Not quite as spec as the I30 or N series but still fun and sporty. It’s got plenty of “get up and go” in it and honestly good with gas. They’re kinda rare but if you can find one for $20,000 or less with less than 50,000 miles i’d go for it.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, a well deserved no.1 position 👍.
Megane r26, volvo c30 t5, Astra vxr????
I just got a part exchange value of £27500 for my July 2021 I30N DCT. 11250 miles on the clock. I think it’ll go for sale for plus £30k. Used car market is strong.
WHERES THE MITSUBISHI LANCER SPORT BACK RALLIART OR THE KIA PROCEED GT?!? So many underrated hot hatches!
Mk1 and 2 cupra Rs are both great cars for the money
I have the FK2 mapped to 370bhp. It’s hilarious to drive and the value for money is insane, often people stop and want to talk to me about it. So much fun. There’s not a lot else for 20k that will hold its value and give you so much.
And it was built in Swindon
@@arifazar786 lol it was
Was looking at an FK2 but the cheap interior and the terrible infotainment system threw me off. Now getting a Cupra 290 Lux
@@stephenbroadstock76 I guess it’s subjective. I find the interior just fine, good quality and no rattles and I like the system, although I’m probably the only person that does lol.
Those things aside the FK2 for me was just so much more engaging than anything else and it’s just wild. The cornering is another level, way beyond my friends golf R. With that said If it’s a daily the Cupra is a great choice. The FK2 you have to love to live with it daily, it’s pretty raw.
Where is the Mazda 3 MPS / Mazdaspeed3 ? :D :D
Peugeot GTI is a good car but the first gen Hyundai I30N is the best of the bunch. Most Golf GTI drivers hate the I30N as they are always behind one and not in front. The I30N does suffer from wheel hop possibly due to the variable dampers struggling some times to get the power to the tarmac. The Hyundai interior and infotainment is far better than similar age Audi's and VW cars although I would change the front seats as they can cause back ache on long trips for taller drivers and are quite bulky. I had one of the first UK I30N Performance cars but I think the lesser powered I30N 250 bhp might be a better car and more fun on standard shocks and springs.
My M330 Focus ST MK4 is brilliant. Much better than the I30N which I test drove before the Focus.
Any Cupra 280,290,300 share the golf r engine but lighter due to no AWD but faster than the golf on a roll and comparatively cheaper. Also sub 8min Nurburgring time, with lots of scope to tune up to very big power.
Cupra is a solid choice imo, think it looks beaut and handles like a champ.
Unfortunately I didn’t have the budget for one at the time my previous car died so I settled for the 1.8tsi Leon but it runs 220+ & 380nm of torque so plenty of go for me now I’m older lol!
Need a £10k video
mitsubishi lancer gs ralliart
Great video as always, but sorry fella the Pugs LSD is mechanical and only on the 270 version, which as a point also gets a tremendous set of Alcon brakes with 380mm disks 👍
The GTI gained a GPF and a slight power drop to 260, but I presume it kept the LSD?
@@stephandolby yup. Originally there was a 250 and a 270, the 270 having the lsd and good brakes. The more recent 260 replaced the 270, the drop in power I believe was down to modifications due to emissions, but it kept the lsd and brakes and, apparently, the 0-62 is still done in 6.
Suzuki alto works rs turbo
Honda N one RS
And maybe a daihatsu tocot avanzato
If daihatsu was to actaully make one
Which they might
The 308 gti is faster than the sti to 200kph regardless of the awd.
Looking at the comments I can see there is one car that no one has spoke about and that is a Mazda 3 mps mk2 260bhp 0-60 in 6sec and cheaper then most of the cars on this list
And unreliable AF
GREAT CONTENT! PLEASE UPDATE a $10,000 cheap car video!
-San Francisco fan girl
When did £20,000 become a cheap car 😅
Megane?
I want a Clio RS so bad
Your definition of cheap is quite funny
Only one of these exist in the US lol. We get all the Hyundai N models except the one I want 🤦♂️
£600 road tax(read road scam) is a killer for a lot of this cars
Asking for under 5k cheap sedan
Focus ST>
Cheap hot hatches? Bro in belgium theyre like 40-50k
Cheap definitely changed =(
6 “cheap” hatchbacks.
20k for most of them.
Tell me you have daddy’s money without telling me you have daddy’s money challenge level impossible.
You didnt go through reliability and common problems on some of these 😢
You say subaru weird...
how can these be cheap...😅😅
Like lol
Cheap?????? CHEAP??????
At least you pronounce Hyundai properly, not "high and dry"
there still not cheap are they 250 quid is cheap 20 grand isnt cheap what world do you live in pal
You ain’t getting any car for 250. You can get a scrap car and get more for it.
20k is a lot but in comparison with a new car for the same amount performance you’d have to spend double these days so it’s “cheap” in comparison
No one talking about the kia forte 5 GT 😢 201hp but easy to tune to 270/300hp😢😢
Peugeot's are gsrbage