Auto Express's verdict, four out of five stars:
It comes as little surprise, but mating a manual gearbox to such an excitable and energetic hot hatch immediately makes the JCW a more appealing proposition. Small sacrifices have to be made in running costs, but the immediate cost saving of £1,330 over the auto and greater connection with the car it provides makes it a no-brainer if a JCW is on your wish list. But it’s also worth noting rivals, namely the lesser-powered Ford Fiesta ST, offers as much fun for a fraction of the cost.
