The era of affordable hot hatches may be coming to a close, with Ford set to discontinue the Focus ST. Production is scheduled to end in November, and all remaining units have already been spoken for, as the model has been removed from price lists in the UK. This news marks a significant shift in the automotive landscape, as there are few alternatives on the market in the same price range.
In the past, young car enthusiasts could easily get their hands on a hot hatch like the Citroën Saxo VTR or Hyundai i20 N for a reasonable price. These cars offered a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank. However, with the remaining hot hatches now priced at around £40k, the affordability and accessibility of this segment have diminished.
The disappearance of affordable hot hatches is a loss for car enthusiasts, as these vehicles provided a gateway into the world of performance driving. Many drivers fondly remember their first hot hatch as a stepping stone to more powerful sports cars later in life. Without this entry point, the path to automotive passion may become less clear for future generations.
As the industry shifts towards electric vehicles, some may find solace in the emergence of fun electric cars like the Alpine A290. However, the affordability of these models may still be out of reach for those living in rented accommodations without access to a charging infrastructure. The changing automotive landscape raises questions about the future of performance driving and the role of hot hatches in shaping enthusiasts’ love for cars.
In conclusion, the demise of the affordable hot hatch marks the end of an era in the automotive world. While new options may emerge in the future, the loss of accessible performance vehicles is a significant blow to car enthusiasts everywhere. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving the heritage and affordability of entry-level sports cars for generations to come.
