Toyota GR Yaris meets Honda Civic Type R: Which is 2020's best hot hatch?
Our favourite hot hatchback meets the rally-bred, all-wheel drive GR Yaris. Is there a new king in town?
The new Toyota GR Yaris is a giant slayer of a hot hatchback. We love its rally-inspired four-wheel drive traction and its astonishing grip.
But does it have the measure on the road of our favourite hot hatch of the moment - the Honda Civic Type R?
The GR Yaris joins us with the optional Circuit Pack, which means it costs £33,495. It has 257bhp from its 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine, which makes it good for 0-62mph in 5.5sec and a limited top speed of 143mph.
The 2020 Honda Civic Type R is a Limited Edition. Lighter and leaner than the regular Type R, it costs £39,995 and has 316bhp from its larger, 2.0-litre turbo engine. More powerful, then, but being front-wheel drive, it hits 0-62mph in 5.8sec, though can go on to a 169mph top speed.
It's the Toyota that has been making the headlines recently but only a mug would write off the Honda, which is such an enjoyable and engaging hatch. Watch on to see what we think.
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*Toyota GR Yaris 2020 UK review*