Hot hatches are the practical performers. We like ’em as they’re relatively affordable and you can explore more of their ultimate potential. Ford’s Focus ST was one of the more exciting arrivals this year. It replaces two cars, its direct predecessor and the mighty Focus RS. Blame Euro emissions standards for the passing of the latter. But it sees the ST as a genuinely stonking competitor now, more powerful and with the means to make it stick. Plus it’s got an auto trans, giving it a better chance of selling.
Not that a manual-only policy has made it hard for Honda to move a few hundred examples of its cracking Civic Type R. It’s a weapons-grade offering and
It’s not very often that I would recommend the dual-clutch or automatic version of a performance car over a six-speed manual. However, in the case of the 2020 Renault Megane R.S. Trophy, I would absolutely recommend the EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) over the stick shift.
Roughly seven months ago, when much of the world was locked down during the first wave of the coronavirus, I had the pleasure of driving the Megane R.S. Trophy with a manual for a week. Despite a few quirks, it was a pleasure to drive. The EDC variant is even better.
A powertrain sent from the heavens.
15 Cars We’re Most Looking Forward To In 2021 ++ The automotive future looks bright.
There’s no shortage of amazing cars and trucks on the market right now. From the eco-friendly and versatile Tesla Model Y and the stylish Genesis G80 to the wild Ram 1500 TRX and controversially mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette, 2020 was very good in terms of cool automotive debuts. But with a new year on the horizon (hopefully bringing with it an end to the coronavirus pandemic), 2021 will likely be even better.
Automakers are gearing up with a bevy of faster, cooler, sleeker, more efficient, and safer vehicles, and we can’t wait to get behind the wheel as soon as possible. Next year will bring more electrification, with full EVs arriving from more mainstream and luxury brands than ever. It’ll also be a new golden age for performance vehicles, thanks to a higher-performance Chevrolet Corvette (possibly bearing the Zora name), Subaru BRZ, and Nis