Even though Italy won the 2006 edition of the FIFA World Cup, we felt compelled to revisit this rivalry of two European romance countries that has produced two interesting "hot-hatches" in recent times...
In the world of hatchbacks, the line between “hot”, “warm” and “pseudo performance” types have long been polarized. Long ago, a hot-hatch is simply a no-frills three door hatchback with a powerful engine and a stick shift. A bare interior with only basic necessities and two rear seats - that was meant to be there only as a joke – was also part of the deal. But over time, the hot-hatch category morphed into something more user-friendly and practical, even turning mass market. You get cars like the current crop of Golf GTIs/Rs, Sciroccos, Focus ST, 135i, Cooper S… Well you get the drift.
On one end, spirited drivers loathe the thought of the ever-changing landscape. On the other, you see gleaming new fast hatchbacks roaming the streets and gaining interest yet once again. Which should explain the introduction of the Alfa Romeo MiTo with a new twin clutch transmission and a Citroen DS3 THP that shares similar mechanical bits with the Mini Cooper S.
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