Used test – hot hatches: Renault Sport Megane vs Vauxhall Astra VXR
Red alert! These two scorching hot hatches are now fantastic value used buys. But which one is more worthy of your hard-earned?...
Our Verdict
The Vauxhall Astra VXR is immensely appealing in many ways. It’s undeniably a handsome thing, especially when garnished with the optional Aero Pack, as are our test car and many of the examples you’ll find out there on the market. What’s more, despite being brutally fast and pleasingly dramatic in the noise it produces, it’s also remarkably comfortable and quietens down nicely when you’re just cruising along.
But power is nothing without control, as the old Pirelli adverts used to say. And in the Astra, control is rather too lacking. The steering doesn’t provide you with the same sort of confidence as the Megane's, and combined with the way it squirms and writhes under power, that makes driving it a bit of a wrestling match.
The Renault Megane RS 265 Cup, on the other hand, isn’t quite as quiet or as comfortable as the Astra, so long trips can be a touch more wearing. But if you’re buying a hot hatch the chances are that you’ll be prepared to put up with those minor shortcomings, and you’ll probably live with the restricted rear visibility and lack of space in the rear, too.
Indeed, for the driving experience the Megane offers, you can forgive almost anything. Not only is it faster than the Astra, but it’s also considerably more fun to drive. Its steering is a delight, the way the chassis responds is a joy, and the performance on offer is an absolute blast. In fact, it’s one of the most entertaining cars on the road – and that alone is enough to win it this test.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
1st – Renault Megane RS 265 Cup
For Precise handling; awesome performance; sensibly priced
Against Poor rear visibility; a bit tight in the back; high maintenance costs
Verdict One of the best hot hatches ever, and a clear winner here
Rated 5 out of 5
2nd – Vauxhall Astra VXR
For Quiet and comfortable; more spacious than the Megane
Against Vague steering; unruly handling
Verdict Scores well in many areas, but steering just isn’t good enough
Rated 3 out of 5
Specifications: Renault Megane RS 265 Cup
List price when new £24,840
Price today £13,000
Engine size 2.0-litre petrol
Power 261bhp
Torque 266lb ft
0-60mph 6.5sec
Top speed 144mph
Fuel economy 34.4mpg (official average)
CO2 emissions 190g/km
Specifications: Vauxhall Astra VXR
List price when new £26,995
Price today £13,000
Engine size 2.0-litre petrol
Power 276bhp
Torque 295lb ft
0-60mph 6.4sec
Top speed 151mph
Fuel economy 34.9mpg (official average)
CO2 emissions 189g/km
Price today is based on a 2012 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
Best hot hatches 2024 – the most fun, and the ones to avoid
A great hot hatch needs to combine driving fun with everyday usability. So, which models do it best – and which are best avoided?
