Volkswagen Golf GTI vs Chevrolet Malibu

Driving a performance car has its setbacks. The ride is typically harsh, fuel economy suffers, and it's seldom usable by more than two people at a time. Therein lies the brilliance of a hot hatch, like the 2018 Volkswagen GTI. It blends sporty characteristics with real-world practicality.

The hot-hatch formula is relatively simple: Take a sensible hatchback, give it a more powerful engine, tighter steering, stiffer springs, and various aerodynamic bits, and boom! You’ve got a sports car that can actually fit family members and co-workers or provide usable cargo space.

The concept of the “hot hatch” dates back to the original MINI Cooper in 1959, but the car that made it a “thing” was the Volkswagen GTI, starting in 1976. There have been rivals and sportier cars through the years, but the GTI is the car that made the hot hatch popular.

In recent years, the segment has experienced a renaissance and more broadly, compact performance cars like Honda Civic Si, Subaru WRX, and Ford Focus ST have joined the fray. Does the Volkswagen GTI still have what it takes to battle this growing crop of usurpers? Read on to find out.