5 Best Hot Hatchbacks to Buy

Why Hatchbacks Are So Popular

Nowadays, many drivers prioritize functionality and flexibility when selecting a car. The hatchback’s ability to carry both cargo and passengers has increasingly been seen as a significant asset among those who value self-sufficiency and a DIY approach to life.

Hatchbacks are distinguished from sedans by their rear doors, which swing upwards to open onto the cargo area and main cabin. They are designed to be more practical and versatile than sedans, with back seats that fold down to provide more storage space.

When the seats of a hatchback are folded down, they rival what many crossover SUVs can offer. Hatchbacks lack the bulk and length of station wagons and are more fuel-efficient than most SUVs. Hatchbacks are also available at competitive prices.

Keep reading for our five recommendations to consider when shopping for a new car.


 

Toyota Vitz (Toyota Yaris)

BROWSE LOW COST USED TOYOTA VITZ MODELS

The Toyota Vitz is a three- and five-door subcompact hatchback produced from 1999 to 2019. The Vitz nameplate was used in Japan, while known internationally as the Toyota Yaris.

The Vitz has always been a leader when it comes to style. The second generation was released in 2005 after being redesigned at Toyota’s European studios. This gave it a distinctive and beautiful curvy look.

The third generation was introduced in 2010, featuring a sportier stance, a redesigned front, and a roomier interior. The new model uses a single windshield wiper instead of a pair and has its meter cluster positioned in front of the driver and behind the wheel.

Two engine options are available; the 1.3-liter 84 hp (63 kW) 2NZ-FE and the 1.5-liter 110 hp (82 kW) 1NZ-FE. Even back to the first generation, the Vitz boasted superb fuel-economy and continually improved over the years.

The Vitz has a comfortable interior with thermal seats and excellent climate control. 

 

Honda Fit (Honda Jazz)

BROWSE LOW COST USED HONDA FIT MODELS

The Honda Fit, known as the Honda Jazz in some countries, is a five-door B-segment supermini or subcompact car released in 2001. It is known for its one-box or monospace design and sporty styling.

The Fit has evolved over the years. Its re-configurable interior features flat-folding rear seats and a conveniently low rear floor. The result is a cargo volume competitive to larger vehicles. 

The second-generation debuted in 2007 and won the Car of the Year Japan Award for the second time. The vehicle became broader and longer than its predecessor. Redesigned headrests enabled more convenient folding of the rear seats.

Two engines were offered in the second-generation; a 1.3 L i-VTEC produces 100 PS (74 kW) at 6,000 rpm, and a 1.5 L i-VTEC engine with an output of 120 PS (88 kW) at 6,600 rpm. A five-speed manual, five-speed automatic (4WD only), and CVT transmission were available. The result is impressive fuel efficiency and low running costs. 

 

Toyota Ist (Toyota Urban Cruiser)

BROWSE LOW COST USED TOYOTA IST MODELS

In production from 2007 to 2016, the Toyota Ist, known in some countries as the Toyota Urban Cruiser, was a subcompact multi-use car.

Its high-end SUV-like styling, wagon-like roominess, and powerful engine set it apart from the competition. It was fitted with either a 1.3-liter (FWD) or a 1.5-liter engine (FWD or 4WD), with a Super ECT transmission.

A wide front grille consisting of two thick horizontal bars, large 15-inch tires, and extended wheel arches gave it dynamic exterior styling.

The second-generation’s instrument gauges were shifted in front of the driver. The 6:4 split rear seats could be fully folded to widen the deck as necessary. A sturdy body was realized through the GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) process.

In Japan, the Ist sold in 2 grades; 150G and 150X, and equipped with Super CVT-i for the 1NZ-FE option. The 1NZ equipped model offered a choice of AWD. The 180G with the 2ZR-FE engine option was also offered until August 2010. 

 

Mazda Demio (Mazda2)

BROWSE LOW COST USED MAZDA DEMIO MODELS

Initially released in 1996, the Mazda Demio is a subcompact car. During some periods and in some markets, it was also known as the Mazda2, Mazda 121, and Mazda Metro.

The third generation earned the 2008 World Car of the Year title, while the fourth was awarded the 2014–2015 “Japanese Car of the Year.”

The third generation used more lightweight materials and had reduced overall dimensions. This generation dropped the mini MPV high-roof styling adopted by its predecessor, instead opting for a more conventional hatchback look.

The Demio’s exterior has multiple compact but intricate press lines. The chrome plating around the front grille creates a luxury impression. The highest grade models have sophisticated interior specifications using genuine and synthetic leather.

Demio has two engines, a clean diesel engine and a gasoline engine. The accelerator uses an organ pedal (a type that uses the heel side as a fulcrum), often used in luxury and sports cars due to its smoothness. 

 

Nissan Note

BROWSE LOW COST USED NISSAN NOTE MODELS

The Nissan Note is a mini multi-purpose vehicle first released in 2004. Its gasoline variant is favored for its lower price, while the hybrid version offers incredible fuel efficiency.

There are three in-line gasoline engine options; 3-cylinder 1.2 L, 3-cylinder 1.2 L supercharger, and 4-cylinder 1.6 L.

The hybrid model is equipped with a leaf motor on an in-line 3-cylinder 1.2 L engine. It is much quieter than the gasoline models while remaining smooth and responsive.

The interior seats four adults comfortably. The rear seats are roomier than most other cars in the same category.

The current second-generation was unveiled at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show. It included Nissan’s “Squash Line” at the side body panel, independent front MacPherson struts with coil springs, torsion beam rear axle, Around View Monitor (AVM) safety technology, Nissan Safety Shield System.

Early models included a choice of HR12DE (S, X, X FOUR) and HR12DDR (S DIG-S, X DIG-S, MEDALIST) engines, Xtronic CVT transmission. 

 

Conclusion: You Can’t Beat a Good Hatchback!

Modern hatchbacks are more stylish and sporty than their predecessors. However, despite their appeal, the sheer number of excellent options can feel overwhelming. The key to making the right choice is knowing what features will be the best fit for your lifestyle.

Please take your time in browsing the hatchbacks on our site, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. 

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