Warm Rides: Warm Hatch Comparison 2014

So you've decided you'd like a hot hatch. In an ideal world you'd front for a Golf GTI or maybe a Focus ST. But in reality you spend most of the time driving to and from work, and don't really have the cash for that dream car. Not right now, anyway.

The next best option is to look at something half-way sporty, but equally practical.

If you've eyed-off a hot hatch you're likely the type that won't shop a base model. You're probably also chasing a fun drive, and a few extra kilowatts.

For our 'warm' hatch shoot-out we've assembled seven vehicles we think fit the bill. All but one sit in the VFACTs Small segment which means they offer enough space for a (growing) family. The exception is a three-door, but at least it has a decent rear seat.

While not exactly pocket rockets, the models on test do provide a little extra sportiness. They also look the part, have more punch and are more fun to drive than their derivative models.

The aim is to see which strikes the best balance between performance, handling and day-to-day driveability without breaking the bank. We'll also determine the most practical, most fuel efficient and – just in case you're interested – the quickest around our test track.

Most are similarly priced in the $27-32K category (the exception the $39,150 plus on-roads Alfa), and most offer similar levels of power and equipment.

On test are the Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV ($39,150), Ford Focus Sport ($28,190), Holden Cruze SRi-V, ($28,690), Hyundai i30 SR ($27,990), Kia pro_cee'd GT ($29,990), Mazda Mazda3 SP25 ($27,890) and Nissan Pulsar SSS ($32,390).