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So you don't do boring, right. That's great. And you're looking toward the $30-40K bracket for a new car that's compact without being decidedly small, that drives rewardingly without inflicting turbo-insurance trauma, and at the same time projects a sense of the anti-ordinary?
Well, would you believe there are no fewer than eight models that we reckon fit the bill. They're lined up here for serious consideration, the better to arrive at short-list priorities.
Although the eight share some common threads running through their front-drive hatchback designs, they're in many ways an interestingly diverse lot. For example, the Holden Astra 1.8 SRi and Citroen C4 VTS enjoy coupe status, where the Mazda 3 SP23, Renault Clio 197 and Golf 2.0 FSI are atypical hatchbacks. That leaves the Alfa Romeo 147 Monza, Honda Civic Type R and Volvo C30 2.4i treading stylish lines between the respective coupe and hatchback schools.
Of the eight, the Civic Type R and Clio Renaultsport 197 are the absolute hotties. Their engines deliver more than 70kW per litre, pushing the power-to-weight factor well over 100kW per tonne mark. Accordingly, their performance potentials are stimulating to say the least.
Although not in the Type R and Clio 197 league for rollicking vigour, the Citroen C4 VTS Coupe, Mazda 3 SP23 and Volvo C30, too, are encouragingly responsive thanks to generously torquey results throughout their middling rev ranges.
And while the Alfa Monza, Astra SRi and Golf Pacific FSI can't muster the same ultimate alacrity as their more powerful peers, be in no doubt that their performances' glow is certainly warm enough to infuse and enthuse keen drivers.
Just as there are different levels of performance within the group, so there are several distinct divisions between the respective prices. In fact, when those aspects are considered together with specifications, equipment lists and other influential issues, the eight peel down to four fairly well-adjusted pairs. Which, besides anything else, may helpfully narrow the field to earlier and more resolute decisions.
You can read the individual comparisons and our choice via the links below. Of course, if you're into instant gratification read our final verdict below and get shopping…
A fiscal note: While this bracket's starting-price point is rounded to $30,000, four of the contenders actually sneak under that mark; before adding dealer delivery charge and on-road costs. Even so, a $30K budget could be enough because it's no secret that, in these tight times, cost-saving deals are out there for the asking.
» Mazda 3 SP23 and Golf Pacific FSI (more here)
» Citroen C4 2.0 VTS Coupe and Astra 1.8 SRi Coupe (more here)
» Alfa Romeo 147 Monza 2.0 and Volvo C30 2.4i (more here)
» Renault Clio Renaultsport 197 and Honda Civic Type R (more here)
AND THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE
For sporty tastes on budgets close to 30 grand, the thinking person's nod must go to the Mazda 3 SP23. Unless there are particular/peculiar reasons for favouring one of the other candidates, that is.
At mid-range, the Volvo C30 2.4i sneaks home as the newer car and the better performer; albeit without the Alfa 147's Latin charms.
And at the top of the tree, you'll be ahead of the game with either the Civic Type R or the Clio Renaultsport 197.
Each of these natural-born cult cars delivers a sensational driving experience; one with Japlish accent, the other with French. Listen up, because they're speaking your language.
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