by PHIL PATTON, ForbesAutos.com
Hot New Hatchbacks
1. Audi A3
Audi calls it a "Sportback," but what the Audi A3 most resembles is a shrunken station wagon. Built on the same platform and packing identical 2.0- and 3.2-liter engine choices, the A3 is like the GTI or R32 wearing fancier (some might say more conservative) clothes. ...read more• Read a Review
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2. Mazdaspeed3
The Mazdaspeed3 is the hotted-up variant of the Mazda3 that’s only available as a hatchback. The Speed3, as it’s called by enthusiasts, benefits from a stiffened body, sports suspension, 263-hp turbocharged engine and six-speed transmission. ...read more• Mazda Showroom
3. Mini Cooper S
The basic Mini Cooper is entertaining to drive, but add the S’s turbocharger and it becomes a 172-hp pit bull. A wide stance and tight sports suspension add to the excitement by providing razor-sharp handling. ...read more• Read a Review
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4. Smart Fortwo
The C30's smallest competitor is the tiny second-generation Smart Fortwo. If you don't need to carry more than one passenger or a few groceries, it may be the perfect car for zipping around the city. ...read more• Read a Review
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5. Volkswagen GTI
Arriving to the tune of Ronnie and the Daytonas’ “Little GTO,” VW helped create the hot hatch category in 1983. The legend lives on with the latest GTI, the fifth generation of what many would call the quintessential hatchback. ...read more• Volkswagen Showroom
6. Volkswagen R32
The R32 is the GTI’s macho sibling — a 3.2-liter V6 good for 250 hp is jammed under the same hood. Helping control the power delivery is VW's semi-automatic dual-clutch DSG transmission. ...read more• View Photo Gallery
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7. Volvo C30
The C30 puts a 227-hp turbocharged engine into a sleek two-door body that can be customized in myriad ways. From exterior colors to interior treatments to accessories, Volvo says it's possible to create 5 million unique combinations. ...read more• Read a Review
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Published on 2007-10-22
Copyright 2007 Forbes.com LLC. All rights reserved
