Ford’s Fiesta ST has reigned supreme over the hot hatch market for far too long – according to the latest Corsa VXR, at least. The high-performance Vauxhall has launched an all-out bid to overthrow the king. Can it succeed?

Such is the sensational Ford Fiesta ST’s hold on the hot hatch market, that accomplished contenders from top rival brands have consistently tried and failed to claim its crown. Now it’s the turn of Vauxhall’s new Corsa VXR. To rate its chances, we compare them in a whirlwind head-to-head.

First things first: cold, hard figures. The Corsa 1.6i 205 Turbo VXR is £400 cheaper than the Fiesta 1.6T 180 Ecoboost ST-2, at £17,995. Sounds good? Yes – but don’t expect any dealer discounts just yet. The Vauxhall is far too new. Haggle over the Ford, on the other hand, and you’ll get a grand or more off. The market leader has got better economy and lower emissions as well, which will reflect in cheaper running costs.

What about performance? Hot hatches aren’t just about straight-line pace – and if they were, surprisingly the Fiesta ST wouldn’t be top of the list. No, they’ve got to sound amazing, shift gears with slick ferocity and steer sublimely. Here, the Ford ticks all the boxes.

Meanwhile, the gutsy VXR packs a punch with its superior 202bhp, racy looks and comparable spec. Is it equally engaging behind the wheel, though? Well... no, not really. Its thrills per mile aren’t as abundant as its extra muscle would indicate on paper, and neither does it sound as beguiling as the 180bhp Ford under full revs.

Compared to the ST’s precise, engaging controls, the Vauxhall’s transmission is less positive and its clutch not as eager. Meanwhile, cornering fun is somewhat inhibited by what feels like excess travel in the brake pedal, as well as overly light steering that simply doesn’t weight up or transmit as accurately as the Ford’s pin-sharp set-up.

Handling is a Fiesta forte. Its flat, composed stance through the twisties, whatever the surface, is in contrast to the Corsa’s less well controlled body and a rear end that shuffles around at the hint of a mid-bend bump. Both cars have a firm ride, but when it comes to corners the Fiesta reaffirms its claim to the crown.

The Ford doesn’t have everything its own way, however. Its cabin has neither the quality nor the classy user-friendliness of the Vauxhall. It does claw back kudos when it comes to driving position, though; we defy you not to get comfortable whatever your size, whereas lanky pilots may well suffer in the VXR. Where both cabins score a draw is that neither imparts an especially racy vibe.

So everything comes down to fun behind the wheel – and the involving Fiesta has done more than enough to retain its place on the hot hatch throne. Loyal subjects rejoice; hail Ford’s all-conquering king.

By Sarah Bradley