Top 5: Turbo triples

1. BMW 118i - 100kW

6

The equal most-powerful turbo triple sold in Australia (until the next-gen Fiesta ST arrives), the 118i and its 2 and 3 Series siblings are also the only three-pot rear-drivers.

2. Mini Cooper - 100kW

6

The Mini has precisely the outputs of the BMW – it’s the same engine – but at 1115kg the Cooper is 280kg lighter than the 118i and about a second quicker 0-100km/h.

3. Peugeot 308 Active - 96kW

6

The Pug 308 Active might be outgunned (by 4kW) but its 230Nm makes it the torquiest triple available, with the healthiest torque-to-weight, at 205Nm/tonne. It’s a sweet engine – and steer.

4. Volkswagen Polo 86TSI - 85kW

6

It’s not the most potent, but with 85kW/200Nm in 1116kg the Polo 85 TSI is lively as well as characterful and refined. And, at $20K, it’s the least costly warm triple.

5. Suzuki Swift GLX Turbo - 82kW

6

At 945kg the Suzuki Swift GLX is the lightest turbo three-cylinder sold in Oz. Yet with 82kW and 160Nm it’s certainly not the least potent. It’d be a ripper with a manual.