Invasion of the mega-hatches

The return of the Ford focus RS is huge news, as well as with a rumoured 350bhp engine from the Ford Mustang under the bonnet, it’s one of the many interesting new mega-hatches either on sale already or due in the next couple of years.
While the Ford focus RS is certainly a hot-proposition, there are a number of other mega hatches on the horizon – none of which is more hotly anticipated than the next Honda Civic type R. The Honda doesn’t have the power of the focus RS or a few of the other vehicles outlined here, however it’s got an incredible heritage as well as – judging by the idea (pictured) – some seriously outlandish looks.
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Many of these hot hatches are going four-wheel drive in the quest for quicker 0-62mph times, while others – like the type R – are targeting the front-wheel-drive Nurburgring lap record. The SEAT Leon Cupra currently holds this, however Renault is improving its Megane RS in a quote to reclaim the title as well as Honda is working to ensure the next type R is the undisputed front-wheel drive king by the time of its introduce next year – up until the focus RS shows up anyway.
Honda Civic type R
Due: mid 2015 | Price: £30,000 (est) | 0-62mph: 5.5 secs (est) | Power: 300bhp (est)
The Civic type R is coming back, however it’ll be rather different to any type of of its predecessors. The biggest news is that the screaming naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine is set to be replaced by a new 2.0-litre turbo.