Our best hot hatches of 2013 need to be fast and fun, so powerful engines, sharp handling and controls bristling with feel are a given, but they must also be reasonably spacious and easy to live with.

Drives on deserted B-roads are rare, so a cracking hot hatch also needs to be comfortable and refined enough for more mundane trips, while sensible running costs are a must for the young drivers these cars are aimed at.