The segment of fast, affordable cars is going through challenging times: many "charged" lines of compact cars are disappearing, crossovers are replacing sedans and hatchbacks, and in some markets, "city car" is almost synonymous with "electric car." Nevertheless, manufacturers continue to create exciting models. Among them are several hot hatches and one iconic sedan, ready for release in 2026.
Nissan Note Aura Nismo RS is an evolution of the warmed-up Note Aura hatchback. The initial modifications were limited to the suspension and body kit, while the hybrid powertrain remained the same: front-wheel drive and 136 hp. In 2024, the Japanese added all-wheel drive, and now they are preparing the top-end RS version. It received the e-Power system from the X-Trail: a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, electric motors with 204 and 136 hp, all-wheel drive, a curb weight of 1490 kg, and a slightly reduced ground clearance. Externally, the RS is distinguished by widened arches, splitters, and an anti-wing. The possibility of mass production is being studied.
The Spanish Cupra Leon VZ TCR is a special version of the Leon in honor of victories in European touring car races. The edition is limited to 499 copies. Under the hood is a 2.0-liter turbo engine with 325 hp, 420 Nm, a 7-speed "robot," and front-wheel drive. Acceleration "0–100" in 5.6 seconds, maximum speed over 270 km/h. Features: body kit with ailerons, enlarged skirts, rear anti-wing, adaptive shock absorbers, differential lock, and six-piston brakes. A simpler VZ version with a circulation of 1500 pieces will be released in the spring.
The Chinese Leapmotor Lafa 05 Ultra is a driver's electric five-door with an aggressive design, 19-inch wheels, and a spoiler. The basic hatchback is rear-wheel drive, and the new version promises unique handling on serpentine roads. The curb weight of the regular Lafa 05 is 1.7 tons, power up to 218 hp, acceleration to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, and a range of 515 km (CLTC). In China, the price starts from 1.13 million rubles, and deliveries to Europe have already been confirmed.
The Toyota GR Yaris Morizo RR is a limited special version of the hot hatchback, named after Akio Toyoda's racing pseudonym. The base is a three-door with an 8-speed "automatic." Inside, there is a racing steering wheel, a Push Morizo button, yellow stitching, and an individual number. The transmission features a Morizo mode with a torque distribution of 50:50, and the suspension and power steering have been recalibrated. Outside, there is an anti-wing, a carbon fiber hood, yellow brake calipers, and bronze wheels. The power of the 1.6-liter turbo engine is up to 304 hp. The quota for Europe and Japan is 100 pieces each.
The Subaru WRX STI is an unexpected return of the sedan in concept status. Four years ago, the Japanese announced that the gasoline version of the STI would no longer appear, but the Tokyo prototype hints at a series. Under the hood is a 2.4-liter opposed turbo engine, a 6-speed "manual," and a proprietary symmetrical all-wheel drive. Externally, the model differs little from the WRX tS for the USA; the changes concern decorative elements and the braking system.
Each of these models reflects the desire of manufacturers to maintain excitement in the segment of compact and affordable sports cars. Hot hatches demonstrate a unique approach to engine building, transmission, and design, while the sedan from Subaru brings back the classics for fans of gasoline sports cars.
Although the market is changing rapidly, interest in "hot hatches" remains: from compact hybrids and electric hatchbacks to limited special versions with precise suspension and aerodynamics tuning. The appearance of these models in mass production in 2026 will give drivers new driving experiences and variety in the class of fast cars.
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