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Small Hatchbacks: The Complete Buyers Guide

Small Hatchbacks: The Complete Buyers Guide

There's a good reason why you're likely to come across the word 'hatchback' when looking for a new car.

Hatchbacks are one of Britain's most popular and best-selling cars, and with their practical boots, efficient engines and variety of designs, it's easy to understand why. But with so many great hatchbacks on the market, how do you know which one is best for you?

We've put together the complete buyers guide for small hatchbacks, including the best in what each manufacturer has to offer.

Hatchback car with full open boot

 

What is a hatchback?

What differentiates hatchbacks from the competition is namely the boot space, which is part of the car's cabin - whereas saloon cars, for example, have a separate boot compartment dividing it from the rest of the car, hatchback boots sit within the back of the car itself and incorporates the rear window with a hinge at the top. 

This gives a hatchback an entire extra door at the rear of the vehicle - this is why you'll see cars described as three or five-door vehicles (although it isn't very likely that you would use the boot as a door!).

You could argue that, because of the boot lid design, an estate car or an SUV could be classed as a hatchback, however it's generally accepted that the term hatchback not only encompasses the boot, but also describes the car category.

Want to learn more about Hatchback basics and whether a hatch would be right for you? Read our What is a Hatchback blog which answers all the common questions you might have.

 

What are the different types of hatchbacks?

Whether you're looking for an economical run-around to get you from A-B, or you're after something with a little more 'oomph' under the hood, there's a hatchback to suit every need and every budget.

Hatchbacks also come in three or five-door formation, with three-door hatchbacks providing two front end doors with foldable front seats for rear access and a spacious boot, and five-door benefitting from the addition of two rear doors and a little more internal space.

 

Small hatchback models for each manufacturer

Every car manufacturer has its own take on the hatchback, with a huge number of shapes, sizes, styles and engines to choose from. We've rounded up our top picks for the best small hatchback models you can get from each manufacturer.

 

Small Mercedes hatchback

The Mercedes A-Class - The latest generation of the Mercedes hatchback offering, the Mercedes A-Class is a compact masterpiece, with a stunning interior design that houses the tech savvy infotainment system. The exterior design is stylish, sleek and houses a highly efficient engine.

Mercedes A Class hatchback in whiteMercedes A Class hatchback open boot

 

Small Volvo hatchback

The Volvo V40 - The Volvo V40 has become a family-friendly staple in the Volvo line up. As the brand's most affordable car, the V40 is known for its sturdy build and impressive safety kit. It's economical to run but has enough power to feel at home on any road.

Volvo V40 hatchback in redVolvo V40 hatchback open boot

 

Small Hyundai hatchback

The Hyundai i30 - Recently updated for 2020/21, the Hyundai i30 is known as the backbone of Hyundai's range. A comfortable and very practical model, with great economy and brand-new safety tech and infotainment centre that stands confidently amongst other tech-savvy competitors.

Hyundai i30 hatchback in blueHyundai i30 hatchback open boot

 

Small Audi hatchback

Audi A3 Sportback - If you're looking for a family-sized hatchback with a quality interior and plenty of space, look no further than the Audi A3. The stylish exterior opens up to a classy interior, complete with the latest technology and plenty of wiggle room.

Audi A3 Sportback in blackAudi A3 Sportback open boot

 

Small Kia hatchback

Kia Rio - An excellent all-rounder, the Kia Rio offers bags of practicality within its snug frame. With large amounts of boot space and a handy seven-year warranty, the Rio is a great choice for those looking for an economical drive.

Kia Rio hatchback in whiteKia Rio hatchback open boot

 

Small Mazda hatchback

Mazda 3 - Winner of the Best Small Hatchback at the 2020 UK Car of the Year Awards, the Mazda 3 is known for its outstanding drive as well as modern, eye-catching design and impressive equipment offering. Practical, comfortable and well worthy of its winners' status. 

Family putting pram in to hatchback boot

 

Small hatchbacks for families

Volkswagen Golf - A staple on UK roads for many years, the Golf offers a brilliantly safe and sturdy build, with bags of internal space and a powerful engine. 

Volkswagen Golf hatchback in silverVolkswagen Golf hatchback open boot

Ford Focus - Another firm favourite with drivers, the Focus offers superb handling with a smart design and extremely comfortable interior for all the family.

Ford Focus hatchback in blueFord focus hatchback open boot

Skoda Octavia - For boot space, you'd be hard pushed to find a hatchback that rivals the Octavia. A leader in practicality and affordability, the Octavia is a great all-round family friendly car.

Skoda Octavia hatchback in blackSkoda Octavia hatchback open boot

 

Best small hatchback hybrids

Enjoy the best of both economy and sustainability with a hatchback hybrid:

  • Toyota Corolla
  • Renault Clio E-Tech
  • Honda Jazz

 

Best small hatchback 4x4s

Small doesn't have to mean less mighty. With many hatchbacks offering 4x4 capabilities to keep you safe, whatever the conditions, here are our top picks:

  • Audi A1 Quattro
  • BMW 1 Series XDrive
  • Suzuki Swift

 

Best 4 door small hatchbacks

Enjoy ease of accessibility with the top 4-door hatchbacks:

  • Seat Leon
  • Mazda 3
  • Honda Fit

 

Safest small hatchbacks

Safety is paramount on the road, particularly if you have a family to care for. But increased safety doesn't have to mean you lose out on style. Here are some great choices for the safest drives:

  • Toyota Yaris
  • Toyota Corolla
  • Volkswagen Polo

 

Best value/affordable small hatchbacks

Make your hard-earned cash stretch further with an affordable small hatchback:

  • Renault sport Megane
  • Peugeot 308 GTi
  • Suzuki Swift

Check out Carbase's wide range of three and five-door hatchbacks.

 

Find your perfect used hatchback today

If you are looking to find your next used hatchback and need more help and advice, contact Carbase today. Our expert team of friendly staff are on hand and more than happy to help you find your perfect hatchback today. 

 

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