GTI, ST, Type R, GR: just some of the hallowed names that crop up in any discussion about hot hatch greats of the modern era, and deservedly so. But there’s one oft-overlooked contender that could hav

R eports of the manual gearbox’s death are greatly exaggerated. Or at least they appear to be. While Mini no longer sells a manual and the retirement of attainable heroes such as the Ford Fiesta and F

FIAT GRANDE PANDA PRICE: £20,975–£23,975 The Panda was distinctly endangered for a while there (though you can still buy the old petrol one in Italy), but it’s been given a new lease of life with an e

List price £20,595 Best price £17,695 MPG 54.3 CO2 119g/km For Very well priced; smart interior is packed with equipment; fine ride and handling balance; practical boot Against Tight for taller adults

THE DEFINITIVE VERDICT

Price new: £32,140 Price used: From £14,000 Engine: 2.0-litre turbo petrol Gearbox: Seven-speed auto Power/torque: 296bhp/400Nm 0-60mph: 5.7 seconds Top speed: 155mph IF one hot hatch literally flies