Hatchbacks

[samlloyd]

Just wanting thoughts of yours on fast hatchbacks.
Test drove a Mazda 3 MPS the other day, great cars I thought.
The Golf model mentioned is around 170kw, DSG might prove troublesome but assume mechanical warranty.
Not caring about torque steer and FWDness, because its a road car not a race car.

[Alex B]

I went for a BL MPS over the Golfs mostly due to the majority of the golfs being DSG, not that I would mind an auto, but when a DSG craps out they are not a cheap fix, but as you say with a mechanical warranty that may not be an issue to you. From what I understand (I haven't driven them) a GTi /R32 may feel a bit disappointing after an MPS. Much like an MPS is disappointing after driving an RS4 etc. Blade Master G might be worth a look also.

[samlloyd]

I actually wouldn't mind a nice auto, I drive a new 6spd Ford Ranger everyday and you get sick of changing gears! So the DSG appeals on that front. The only experience I've had with nice paddles are in a F430 Scud and a Gallardo. They were good.

[Bling]

Parents had a MPS, certainly a fun car, so much go. Just does everything effortlessly.

Mrs has a 2.4L blade as a daily and won't shut up about it. I drive it every so often and it's a pretty nice car to drive. Just well thought out features and nice interior. Certainly a nice step up from lower spec Corollas. Nothing to look at from the outside compared to some cars, but that was part of the appeal for me, not standing out. The 3.5L must be a monster, i'd at least give one a drive to see how it compares to your other options.

I was in two minds about going 3.5L, and may still go that way in a couple of years (mech warranty for two). Was looking at $3k at least on top of the 2.4L to get 3.5L though, so not really worth it for it's usage. Realistically I guess it depends how much go you want. If CVT gearboxes didn't have such a bad rep, i'd be pushing the 2.4L model more. But they are a bit of an unknown to me. The 2.4L doesn't lack go, but it won't compare to boosted options. I think the 3.5L would give them a good run for their money though.

[iOnic]

If it's outright performance you want. And you can't afford an Audi RS3/Focus RS/AMG A45. Buy the MPS. It's the next quickest thing. 300kw/400hp is a few bolt ons away which will bother just about anything. From a roll.

If you want refinement and comfort etc with "slightly better than the base model" performance - buy any of the others.

[sergei]

I am very happy with my JDM 2008 WRX STI. It is the driver's car.
Didn't like MPS, not a fan of euros either...

[iOnic]

^ Forgot about them. They're a good hatch too.

PS - If you seriously consider buying an MPS - Google the term "zoom zoom boom" and become very familiar with what a vented to atmosphere block looks like before you write off DSG.

[samlloyd]

Did google that, 2 out of 2 cases the engines were modified.

No biggy.

[rollaholic]

i agree with sergei, subaru would by my first test drive if i were in the market for a hot hatch.

hate to say it but if you are willing to put up with filthy euro rubbish the renault megane RS is pretty sweet too.

[Al]

BMW 130i with the proper manual box.

[rollaholic]

ooh good call Al, 1-series are great

[samlloyd]

I took a standard GTI for a drive the other day, man those gearboxes are mint! Pretty good power but wouldn't want any less.

Sergei - WRX STI 2008 still way more expensive then the others mentioned

BMW 1 series hatchbacks look like a shoe

Yet to drive an R32...

[B1NZ]

There could also be the option of the S-GT Impreza (Japanese spec WRX) which is more in line with the money you are wanting to spend

[samlloyd]

Drove a 2007 VW Passat 3.2 dsg station wagon the other day. Nice bit of kit, thoughts?

[DXROLLA]

Ive got a 2007 golf R32 dsg box, love it, sounds great and goes great. Feels like a lot bigger car than what it is, plenty of room on the inside, easily fit 5 adults comfortably.
Looked at the wrx sti as well but just seemed so plane compared to the spec of the golf.

[Timmo]

Dont forget the Audi A3 2.0T- Same running gear as the Golf GTI but slightly larger car and a bit less 'sporty'...doesn't look as agressive either but they are generally a few grand cheaper so are really good buying at the moment.

[samlloyd]

I have looked at the audis, namely s4 wagons. The interiors of them seem so dated for the year compared to (any jap) and the VWs. The 05 s4 4.2l V8 wagons, the interiors to me look like an au falcon. I think its the big rounded gear knob and rounded looking dash, Dated seats.

A shame, I'm sure they are epic!