Hatchbacks provide a versatile combination of passenger and cargo space in a compact, affordable package. With their cargo doors that open upwards and foldable rear seats, hatchbacks offer excellent utility that appeals to a wide range of buyers.
From budget-friendly subcompacts to luxury models and high-performance variants, the hatchback segment encompasses vehicles to suit diverse tastes and needs. Read on to learn more about key hatchback models based on factors like pricing, fuel efficiency, performance, technology, and overall value.
Toyota Corolla Hatchback
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars worldwide, and the hatchback version offers the same reputation for reliability and value. The Corolla Hatchback has a sporty exterior design and an efficient powertrain featuring a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. Toyota equips the Corolla Hatchback with the latest technology like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Toyota Safety Sense package adds driver aids like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Overall, the Corolla Hatchback is a smart choice for those seeking affordability, efficiency, and Toyota’s legendary quality.
Honda Civic Hatchback
The venerable Honda Civic has been one of America’s most popular compact cars since the 1970s, and the current Civic Hatchback carries on that tradition. The Civic Hatchback has an eye-catching, sporty design and comes powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine or a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. It offers nimble handling, excellent fuel economy, and advanced safety and technology features. Available driver assistance features include traffic sign recognition, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, and collision mitigation braking. With its mix of practicality, efficiency, performance, and value, the 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback remains a top pick in the hatchback segment.
Volkswagen Golf Hatchback
The Volkswagen Golf sets the benchmark for refinement and ride quality in the hatchback class. Offered as both a 4-door and 2-door hatchback, the Golf impresses with its upscale, high-quality interior, composed handling, and strong turbocharged engine lineup. Engine choices include a 147-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder and a 228-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The Golf hatchback offers a lineup of driver assistance features under the IQ.Drive label, which includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. With its premium design and German engineering, the Volkswagen Golf remains one of the most well-rounded hatchbacks available.
Mazda 3 Hatchback
The athletic Mazda 3 hatchback provides driving enthusiasts with an excellent entry in the compact hatchback class. It comes with either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine making 186 horsepower or a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with up to 250 horsepower. Both engines can be paired with a responsive 6-speed manual or quick-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. The Mazda 3 has sharp handling capabilities thanks to its G-Vectoring control technology. The handsome cabin punches above its price class with premium materials and a user-friendly layout. Standard i-Activsense safety features include blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. With its fun-to-drive nature and upscale interior, the Mazda 3 hatchback makes an compelling choice in the segment.
Kia Rio Hatchback
The Kia Rio hatchback is a strong value choice in the subcompact hatchback category. Despite its affordable pricing, the Rio hatchback comes well-equipped with features like alloy wheels, air conditioning, a 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and forward collision warning with automatic braking. Powering the Rio is a responsive 1.6-liter 4-cylinder producing 120 horsepower. Available active safety features include blind spot collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, and lane keeping assist. With its combination of value, efficiency, and warranty coverage, the 2023 Kia Rio stands out as a top subcompact hatchback pick.
MINI Cooper Hatchback
With its retro styling and go-kart handling, the MINI Cooper hatchback remains one of the most fun-to-drive choices in the segment. Buyers can choose from three or five-door body styles, as well as turbocharged three-cylinder or four-cylinder engines. The agile handling comes courtesy of the MINI’s wheels pushed out to the corners design along with responsive steering and suspension systems. Inside, the cabin features a stylish aesthetic with circular elements and premium materials. Highlights include LED headlights, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and advanced infotainment tech. Safety equipment includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors. If you’re seeking personality and driving enjoyment, the 2023 MINI Cooper hatchback delivers in spades.
Hyundai Veloster Hatchback
The Hyundai Veloster provides shoppers with a unique take on the hatchback formula thanks to its asymmetrical door design with one door on the driver side and two doors on the passenger side. The zippy Veloster Turbo model packs a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Quirky style aside, the Veloster offers an impressive amount of tech like an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, and advanced safety equipment including automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and lane keep assist. With its stand-out styling, powerful turbo engine option, and abundant features, the Hyundai Veloster makes for an intriguing hatchback choice.
Kia Soul Hatchback
The Kia Soul hatchback combines utility, efficiency and style appealed in a compact, box-shaped package. Offered in multiple trim levels, the Soul can be equipped with either a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine or a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder. The roomy cabin features quality materials and user-friendly tech like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging, and a 640-watt Harman Kardon audio system. Also offered is a range of advanced driver assistance systems under the Kia Drive Wise label, including forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, and more. With its blend of funky styling, cargo versatility, and all-around value, the 2023 Kia Soul hatchback hits the mark for shoppers seeking practicality with personality.
Subaru Impreza Hatchback
With standard all-wheel drive and a spacious interior, the Subaru Impreza hatchback is a smart choice for buyers needing traction and cargo versatility. Available in 4-door and 5-door body styles, power comes from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine delivering 152 horsepower. Subaru equips the Impreza hatchback with an array of driver assistance technology like pre-collision braking, lane sway warning, and adaptive cruise control. New for 2023 is a larger 11.6-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Known for its all-weather capabilities and world-class safety scores, the 2023 Impreza hatchback delivers outstanding functionality and value.
Ford Fiesta Hatchback
The sporty Ford Fiesta hatchback may be the automaker’s smallest car, but it brings loads of style, technology and driving enjoyment. Designed for nimble handling, the Fiesta comes powered by a 120-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, while a 6-speed automatic is optional. Inside, the SYNC 3 infotainment system brings available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Safety tech includes blind spot warning, lane keeping assist, and pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection. Although the Fiesta hatchback is being discontinued in the U.S. after 2023, its fun-to-drive character makes it a compelling choice while it’s still available.
Toyota Yaris Hatchback
As an affordable, entry-level hatchback, the Toyota Yaris hatchback makes a great choice for first-time new car buyers and those looking for maximum value. Despite its small size and low pricing, the Yaris packs in advanced safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Power comes from a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder producing 106 horsepower, which provides sprightly acceleration and excellent fuel economy. The interior offers user-friendly tech like a 7-inch touchscreen, USB inputs, and Bluetooth connectivity. Reliable, efficient, and budget-friendly, the 2023 Toyota Yaris hatchback covers the basics for economical transportation.
Chevrolet Sonic Hatchback
The Chevrolet Sonic hatchback stands out as a affordable, value-packed choice in the subcompact category. With sporty styling cues and peppy turbocharged power, the Sonic brings plenty of personality for its small size. Under the hood sits a turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder generating 138 horsepower, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The cabin offers USB ports, Bluetooth audio streaming, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, and OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability. Available active safety features include forward collision alert, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. Offering a lot for not much money, the 2023 Chevy Sonic remains a compelling hatchback pick.
Nissan Versa Hatchback
The Nissan Versa hatchback offers buyers excellent value in a compact 5-door package. Motivating the Versa is a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, which provides peppy performance and fuel efficiency. The cabin is nicely equipped for the price with features like an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, push-button start, and remote keyless entry. Nissan equips the Versa hatchback with its Safety Shield 360 suite of technologies like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, high beam assist, and lane departure warning. Roomy, affordable, and tech-savvy, the 2023 Nissan Versa hatchback is a top value pick.
Hyundai Accent Hatchback
The Accent hatchback delivers maximum utility in an affordable, subcompact package. Powered by a 120-horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, the Accent returns up to 41 mpg on the highway. Nicely equipped for its low pricing, the Accent offers amenities like power windows, remote keyless entry, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 5-inch touchscreen. Available advanced safety features include forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, and more. With roomy cargo space, high fuel economy, and Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, the 2023 Hyundai Accent hatchback is a great value-focused option.
Kia Forte Hatchback
The Kia Forte hatchback brings style, space, and value to shoppers wanting a practical compact car. The handsome exterior leads into a modern, tech-filled interior outfitted with features like dual-zone climate control, wireless smartphone charging, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. A 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine making 147 horsepower delivers a spirited driving experience. Available advanced driver assists like forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, and high beam assist provide added convenience and safety. Backed by Kia’s excellent warranty coverage, the 2023 Forte hatchback is a well-rounded pick.
Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen
The Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen provides a spacious cargo hold and car-like driving dynamics in a sporty hatchback package. Like the Golf hatchback, it impresses with its upscale interior, responsive handling, and strong engine choices that include a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The Sportwagen expands on the Golf’s versatility with 30.4 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats and 66.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. Available driver assistance features under VW’s IQ.Drive suite include forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist. For its optimal mix of hatchback driving enjoyment and wagon practicality, the Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen is tough to top.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Hatchback
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class delivers a luxurious small hatchback experience culminating in the high-performance AMG-Line models. Suave styling and cutting-edge tech make the A-Class feel like a true Mercedes inside and out. Engine choices range from a peppy 161-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder up to a brash 382-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four in the A 45 AMG. Standard active safety items include blind spot assist, active brake assist, attention assist, and more. With its prestigious badge and standout style, the A-Class brings big appeal in a compact luxury hatchback package.
BMW 2 Series Hatchback
With rear-wheel-drive dynamics and potent turbocharged power, the BMW 2 Series hatchback supplies serious driving enjoyment. Its 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged engine delivers 228 horsepower, enabling 0-60 acceleration in under 6 seconds with the 8-speed automatic transmission. Sharply tuned steering and suspension provide agile cornering reflexes. The M235i model turns up the excitement with a 301-horsepower turbo inline 6-cylinder. Inside, the cabin features sensational build quality along with iDrive infotainment with navigation and a 10.3-inch touchscreen display. For buyers wanting luxury and performance in a compact hatchback wrapper, the BMW 2 Series hits the mark.
Honda Fit Hatchback
Making the most of its small footprint, the Honda Fit hatchback delivers impressive versatility alongside thrifty fuel economy. The 2nd row Magic Seat and ultra-flexible cargo area provide loads of utility. A 130-horsepower 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers spirited acceleration while earning up to 36 mpg combined. The Fit comes packed with tech like Honda Sensing safety features, LED headlights, 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. With its excellent space utilization, hatchback practicality, and fun personality, the 2023 Honda Fit stands tall as a subcompact hatch champion.
Toyota Matrix Hatchback
Based on the Toyota Corolla platform, the Matrix hatchback adds extra utility thanks to its tall, boxy profile. The versatile cargo hold and fold-flat seats make the most of its compact dimensions. Motivating the Matrix is a peppy 1.8-liter 4-cylinder putting out 132 horsepower. Fuel economy checks in at 32 mpg combined. For infotainment, the Matrix is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, six speakers, USB audio inputs, and Bluetooth connectivity. With its space-maximizing storage, Toyota build quality, and affordable pricing, the 2023 Toyota Matrix is a sensible pick for a compact hatchback.
Ford Focus Hatchback
Boasting sleek styling and impressive driving dynamics, the Ford Focus hatchback brings European flair to the compact segment. A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder generates up to 275 horsepower for exhilarating performance. The Focus delivers agile handling thanks to its independent rear suspension and torque vectoring control system. The SYNC 3 system provides intuitive entertainment controls through an 8-inch touchscreen and available navigation. Although discontinued after 2023, the Focus hatchback goes out on a high note by offering style, enjoyment, and value.
Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback
As the more affordable counterpart to the standard Mazda 3 hatchback, the Mazda 3 Sport trim also delivers sleek styling and agile handling. Under the hood, it packs a peppy 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The 3 Sport hatch comes nicely equipped with features like push-button start, an electronic parking brake, advanced keyless entry, automatic headlights, cloth upholstery, and a 7-inch Mazda Connect touchscreen interface. For buyers focused on value and driving enjoyment, the 2023 Mazda 3 Sport hatchback hits a sweet spot.
Toyota Prius Hatchback
The Toyota Prius pioneered hybrid technology in passenger cars, and the Prius hatchback maximizes fuel efficiency without sacrificing practicality. Its 1.8-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine combines with two electric motors to produce 121 horsepower while achieving a stellar 56 mpg combined rating. The Prius offers ample cargo space thanks to its hatchback body style and split folding rear seats. Advanced tech features include a head-up display, wireless phone charging, Amazon Alexa integration, and Toyota’s Safety Sense package with collision mitigation braking and adaptive cruise control. With stellar mpg ratings and proven reliability, the 2023 Toyota Prius hatchback makes eco-friendly sense.
Kia Forte5 Hatchback
Closely related to the Kia Forte sedan, the Forte5 hatchback provides added cargo versatility. Available in multiple trim levels, the Forte5’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine puts out 147 horsepower and pairs with either a 6-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission. The well-equipped interior includes an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, and seating for five. Kia’s Drive Wise suite of advanced safety tech brings welcome features like forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, driver attention warning, and high beam assist. Backed by Kia’s outstanding 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, the Forte5 hatchback makes a great value.
Toyota CH-R Hatchback
With its eye-catching styling and thrifty powertrain, the Toyota C-HR hatchback puts an adventurous spin on the subcompact crossover segment. The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission return up to 31 combined mpg. The sport-tuned suspension delivers agile handling, while the small but tall body style provides excellent outward visibility. Standard infotainment and safety equipment include a 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay integration, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and road sign assist. For affordable style and versatility, the 2023 Toyota C-HR makes every drive an experience.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
With its Golf GTI hot hatch, Volkswagen offers driving enthusiasts GTI models make every drive a thrill ride thanks to turbocharged power, a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and posh interior trappings. A 2.0-liter turbocharged engine cranks out 241 horsepower, enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in under 6 seconds. Customizable drive modes alter the engine, transmission shift points, and steering heft at the push of a button. Large brakes provide repeated, fade-free stops. An available plaid cloth interior and golf ball shift knob nod to GTI heritage. For under $30,000, the exhilarating 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI remains the hot hatch gold standard.
Hyundai Veloster N
New for 2023, the high-performance Veloster N hatchback takes Hyundai’s quirky three-door coupe to seriously sporty heights. Under the hood sits a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder pumping out 275 or 290 horsepower depending on trim. The engine mates to a standard 6-speed manual gearbox or optional 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Obsessively engineered and track-tuned by Hyundai’s N performance division, the Veloster N can dash from 0-60 mph in under 5.5 seconds. With its overtly aggressive looks and head-turning asymmetrical doors, the 2023 Veloster N drops the mic as an attainable hot hatch for the streets or track.
Mini Cooper John Cooper Works
The high-strung Mini Cooper John Cooper Works cranks the retro-styled hatchback to 11 with serious performance upgrades. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine packs a raucous 228 horsepower under the diminutive hood. This enables 0-60 mph sprints in around 6 seconds flat. Upgraded brakes, a sports exhaust, and track-tuned suspension equip the JCW for performance driving. Unique styling cues like a rear spoiler, aerodynamic kit, and John Cooper Works badging also set it apart visually. For compact size with mighty turbocharged power, the 2023 Mini Cooper JCW doles out huge fun.
Kia Rio 5-door
The value-packed Kia Rio 5-door provides maximum utility in a budget-friendly package. Despite its affordable pricing, the Rio comes surprisingly well equipped with features like air conditioning, power windows, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and automatic headlights. Motivating the Rio is a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder producing up to 120 horsepower for sprightly acceleration. The Rio 5-door also shines with fuel economy up to 41 mpg highway. Backed by Kia’s excellent 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, the 2023 Kia Rio 5-door serves up big appeal on a small budget.
Toyota Prius C
For drivers focused on maximum fuel economy, the Toyota Prius C hatchback delivers with its thrifty hybrid powertrain. Smaller than the standard Prius, the Prius C teams a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 99 horsepower. Stellar fuel economy reaches up to 56 mpg city and 43 highway. Despite its petite footprint, the Prius C offers seating for five along with ample cargo room. Standard safety tech includes automatic high beams, lane departure alert with steering assist, and pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. Thanks to superb mpg ratings, the 2023 Toyota Prius C makes every gallon count.
Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Adventure-ready and wagon-practical, the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack provides SUV capability with hatchback maneuverability. Built on the Golf Sportwagen platform, the Alltrack brings added ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and body cladding for light off-road duty. Power comes from a punchy turbocharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. Inside, the upscale cabin offers premium amenities and ample room for passengers and gear. For 2023, intelligent driver aids include forward collision warning, blind spot monitor, and rear traffic alert. Equipped for wherever the journey leads, the 2023 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack brings safety and space to travelers.
Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec
The Veloster Turbo R-Spec turns up the wick on Hyundai’s quirky hatchback with a 201-horsepower turbocharged engine and performance upgrades. The R-Spec eschews extras like leather and sunroof in favor of mechanical improvements like a tuned suspension, bigger brakes, and an available 6-speed manual transmission. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, proximity entry with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Priced below $23,000, the 2023 Veloster Turbo R-Spec packs in power and driving fun on a budget.
Toyota Corolla iM
Based on the durable Toyota Corolla sedan, the Corolla iM hatchback expands utility thanks to its cargo-hauling hatchback body style. The peppy 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers up to 32 mpg combined, keeping efficiency high and fuel costs low. The versatile interior provides seating for five plus up to 20 cubic feet of cargo space. Standard infotainment and safety features include a 7-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio, forward collision warning, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. For affordable hatchback practicality backed by legendary Toyota quality, the 2023 Corolla iM is a sensible choice.
Volkswagen e-Golf
The Volkswagen e-Golf combines the Golf’s premium hatchback attributes with zero-emissions electric motoring. Its 35.8 kWh battery pack feeds a 134-horsepower electric motor to deliver EPA ratings of up to 125 city and 111 highway miles of range. Recharging the battery to 80% capacity takes around one hour using a fast charger. The e-Golf retains the Golf’s upscale, comfortable cabin with available leather upholstery and Volkswagen’s state-of-the-art Car-Net telematics system. Offering eco-friendly driving with no range anxiety, the 2023 Volkswagen e-Golf makes electric mobility more accessible.
