Skip advert
Advertisement

Mini GP vs Audi A1 quattro vs Focus RS500 vs Megane R26.R

Tiff Needell and Richard Meaden test the new Mini JCW GP on track against the Audi A1 quattro, Ford Focus RS500 and Renault Megane R26.R

Two hardcore hot hatchbacks - the new 215bhp Mini John Cooper Works GP and 253bhp Audi A1 quattro - have just made it to UK shores. Both are the hottest versions yet of their particular breed, and with tiny production runs (2000 GPs will be made and a scant 333 quattros, 19 of them getting British number plates), they'll always be in demand.

Advertisement - Article continues below

They face each other in a track battle, with Tiff Needell and Richard Meaden in charge of laptimes. But could they be outdone by two other extreme hot hatches of recent years, the 227bhp Renaultsport Megane R26.R and monster 345bhp Ford Focus RS500? Both also enjoy cult status and rarity, but which of our fast four proves quickest around Blyton Park circuit?

Get a feel for some of the best ever hot hatchbacks via the video. And for more evo films and footage, join our Evo TV YouTube channel here…

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Driving the Tail of the Dragon – does 'America's Nürburgring' live up to its reputation?
Mini JCW on the Tail of the Dragon
Features

Driving the Tail of the Dragon – does 'America's Nürburgring' live up to its reputation?

We flew to Tennessee to find out whether the Tail of the Dragon is among the world’s greatest driving roads.
5 Apr 2026
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Peugeot 208 GTi review – can it take the fight to the Alpine A290?
2026 Peugeot 208 GTi
Reviews

Peugeot 208 GTi review – can it take the fight to the Alpine A290?

After a six year hiatus, Peugeot has revived GTi with a modern take on its iconic hot 208. We find out if has the same spark as its predecessor with a…
23 Sep 2026
The subtle trick that makes Audi’s old interior better than a touch screen
evo Fast Fleet Audi TT RS
Long term tests

The subtle trick that makes Audi’s old interior better than a touch screen

Its tech is no longer state of the art, but it’s got ease of use nailed
22 Sep 2026
Bentley Torcal charged up to take on the Range Rover Electric
Bentley Torcal
News

Bentley Torcal charged up to take on the Range Rover Electric

Bentley’s first all-electric car, the 876bhp Torcal, mixes Porsche chassis technology with Bentley craftsmanship and design
25 Sep 2026