HONDA CIVIC TYPE R (£31,550)
Cheaper and the class benchmark, the Honda’s talent is that it doesn’t feel like a hot hatch, rather an involving and sophisticated sports car that just so happens to be front-wheel drive and have five doors. Beating the 316bhp Type R will be a big ask, but the GP will have size on its side.
RENAULT MÉGANE RS TROPHY-R (£51,140)
It’s pricey, but the Trophy-R’s limited-run status and Nürburgring record hold plenty of cachet, although so far it hasn’t impressed us as much as earlier ‘R’ Méganes. Closest in spirit to the GP, the 296bhp Renault’s extra cost is down to its multiple externally sourced components.
FORD FIESTA ST PERFORMANCE (£26,495)
The Mini GP’s closest rival in size, the Fiesta ST Performance Edition may be…
