MERCEDES-AMG A45
Price: £39,995
Engine: 1991cc
4cyl turbo, 376bhp @ 6000rpm, 350lb ft @ 2250rpm
Performance: 0–62mph in 4.2 seconds, 155mph
Transmission: 7spd dual-clutch auto, AWD
Economy: 40.9mpg, 162g/km CO2
Weight: 1555kg
FORD FOCUS RS
Price: £29,995
Engine: 2261cc 4cyl turbo, 345bhp @ 6000rpm, 325lb ft @ 2000rpm (347lb ft on overboost)
Performance: 0–62mph in 4.7 seconds, 165mph
Transmission: 6spd manual, AWD
Economy: 36.7mpg, 175g/km CO2
Weight: 1599kg
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R
Price: £32,890
Engine: 1984cc 4cyl turbo, 296bhp @ 5500rpm, 280lb ft @ 1800rpm
Performance: 0–62mph in 4.9 seconds, 155mph
Transmission: 6spd dual-clutch auto, AWD
Economy: 40.9mpg, 159g/km CO2
Weight: 1495kg
HONDA CIVIC TYPE-R
Price: £29,995
Engine: 1996cc
4cyl turbo, 306bhp @ 6500rpm, 295lb ft @ 2500rpm
Performance: 0–62mph in 5.7 seconds, 168mph
Transmission: 6spd manual, FWD
Economy: 38.7mpg, 170g/km…