Hatchback models are great for city and country driving and families that have few members and/or a small number of children. The most famous models of Be Forward’s Car Catalog in the year 2024 are the Toyota Vitz, Honda Fit, Nissan Note, Mazda Demio, and Suzuki Swift which are included in the Top 5 Best Sellers Category.
The 3rd generation Toyota Vitz model from 1999-2019 is another popular model because of its durability and multipurpose design appreciated by individuals with a small budget. The Honda Fit proves to be a great car with marvelous design, much space inside the car, and amazing fuel efficiency along with excellent safety features. Nissan Note has acceptable levels of practicality with the latest touch of technology for smooth safe driving.
Mazda Demio also known as Mazda2 is among the latest creations from Mazda and it is characterized by highly spirited handling and fashionable looks. The Suzuki Swift, also recognized by drivers for its engines’ liveliness and agility, is popular among drivers keen on handling their car.
These hatchbacks are the best from the land of the rising sun – Japan – and all of them are very different from each other but all of them are good in their way.
1st: TOYOTA Vitz
The Toyota Vitz, a subcompact hatchback produced from 1999 to 2019, is renowned for its affordability, excellent fuel economy, and low maintenance costs. With fuel efficiency reaching up to 26.5 km/L, it is an economical choice for daily urban driving. Features like a single windscreen wiper and start-stop technology enhance its fuel efficiency and sleek design.
Hatchback Benefits
Key benefits of the Vitz include its low purchase price and surprisingly spacious, comfortable interior for a car of its size. This makes it appealing to first-time car owners, young professionals, small families, and budget-conscious buyers who prioritize cost-effectiveness, reliability, and practicality.
The Vitz’s popularity across various markets stems from its reliable performance, strong resale value, and overall value for money. It consistently meets the needs of drivers seeking an economical and dependable vehicle without sacrificing essential features and comfort.
FAQ: How much is Toyota Vitz?
“Be Forward FOB Price of the Toyota Vitz starts around $680 as of July 2024”
People also read: Honda Fit vs Toyota Vitz Comparison
2nd: HONDA Fit
The subcompact car Honda Fit is considered to be one of the best hatchback vehicles, which is characterized by its affordable price, good gas mileage, versatility, and modern equipment. The standard Fit model has 36/36/36 mpg for city/highway/combined, and the hybrid model provides 49/47/49 mpg.
Other advantages of Honda Fit include high interior capacity which provides more, the largest space inside the car since the introduction of Honda’s Magic Seat that offers multiple positions and flexibility. Another feature is that the progressing safety and car infotainment systems also play an important role in the preferences of self-driven people.
This is the reason why the Fit became so popular; of course, the car is reliable and cheap to maintain and run. This is mainly because it’s preferred by those living in towns and cities and young employees who need a reliable and affordable car to shuttle between their place of residence and place of work. It is also an ideal car for small families and people who prefer small cars with comfort and enough space for everything they need.
FAQ: How much does a 2020 Honda Fit cost?
“Be Forward FOB Price of the Honda Fit starts from $630 as of July 2024.”
People also read: Suzuki Swift vs Honda Fit Comparison
3rd: NISSAN Note
The Nissan Note is a stylish and practical B-class hatchback whose main characteristics include highly economical petrol engines, interior space, and technology solutions. One of its great selling points is the new e-POWER system, which is a form of hybrid electric vehicle together with the benefit of a gas engine providing the highest fuel economy class in its segment. The Note has a spacious rear seat as well as a large trunk that can be easily adapted thanks to the sliding rear floor.
Some of these are a lightweight platform and better harnessing of an engine, which made the car have better fuel economy and again eco eco-friendly. The reason for the success of the Note is due to the low cost, the versatility, and especially the requirement of motorists residing in large cities and families with one or two children.
The e-POWER variant is particularly appealing in the areas where the EV charging infrastructure is still underdeveloped, mediating between the conventional ICEs and EVs.
Hatchback Buyers
Nissan Note buyers are normal buyers, urban people, and family buyers who prioritize the price, fuel efficiency, reliability, and versatility of the car with its small size. It often enjoys a high demand from car buyers who are looking for a smart car packed with features essential for daily use and available at a relatively low price.
The common FOB price from Be Forward starts at around $640 for the Nissan Note as of July 2024.
FAQ: I was wondering how much one can expect to pay for a Nissan Note in Kenya, thank you for your help.
The Be Forward FOB Price to Kenya for the above model begins at $2,430 as of July 2024.
“Notice: To import to Kenya, the vehicle has to be within the age of 8 from the year of manufacture and first registration (Manufactured and first registered in 2017 and newer).”
People also read: Mazda Demio vs Nissan Note Comparison
4th: MAZDA Demio
The Mazda Demio which is popular due to its compact size and practicalness has many advantages making it possible to achieve great fuel consumption and possessing many extras. With a fuel economy rating of up to 17.4 km/l, the Demio is an economical car, especially for persons who are interested in cutting down their expenses. The current series models like the 13C-V Smart Edition II, however, come with such modifications as a rear roof spoiler and improved fuel economy.
Some of the outstanding characteristics of DEMIO include; The innovative compact vehicle arises as a highly reliable automobile with cutting-edge technologies it forms part of the market preference in different markets. It is for this reason that the size of the car is manageable and particularly well received by the urban buyer who needs something easy to navigate and park.
The Mazda Demio is well-adapted to such markets as Kenya, Tanzania, and Myanmar because of its low costs, possibility of both effective fuel consumption, and flexibility to traverse through various road types. The target audience of the product includes firstly, young working people, secondly, people with small children, and thirdly, residents of large cities who need a reliable car that meets the requirements of daily use.
“Be Forward FOB Price of the Honda Fit starts from $720 as of July 2024.”
People also read: Should You Buy? 5 Pros & Cons of Mazda Demio 2019
5th: SUZUKI Swift
Suzuki Swift hatchback is perhaps one of the most popular small cars that has a capturing design, great fuel efficiency, and dependable performance.
While fuel efficiency is between 24.2Km/l and 27.2 Km/l, The sleek design of the car and aerodynamic body-reducing draught make it one of the market favorites, so driving the Swift will come cheap for those who use their cars intensively like urban commuters.
It features a 1.2L petrol engine that displays a good amount of power while at the same time displaying reasonable fuel economy for a satisfying road feel.
Some of the important characteristics include elegant and athletic exterior, well-IS Boxed and protected interior, innovative safety features as well as easy to use and efficient telematics. The Swift’s compact nature is ideal within towns because of the ease at which it can be maneuvered and easily parked. The Swift Sport version, which is created based on the new generation HEARTECT platform, improves driving stability, underbody stiffness, and crash safety.
Hatchback Fashion & Efficiency
The hatchback Suzuki Swift is most appreciated in areas that have high population density, especially in urban centers, this is due to factors such as its cost, efficiency, and fashion. It attracts the section of the population that consists of young and dynamic professionals, small families, and first-time car buyers who are looking for a reliable vehicle that will also not cost an arm and a leg.
In general, it can be suggested that the identified models, namely Swift and Swift Sport, appeal to those buyers who consider such priorities as excellent performance and fuel efficiency, as well as contemporary features incorporated into an affordable car of a compact size.
“Be Forward FOB price of the Suzuki Swift starts from $720 as of July 2024.”
Final Verdict for Different Life Styles
When choosing a hatchback for different environments, each model offers unique benefits tailored to specific needs:
Urban Areas
Honda Fit: There are hints of Jazz but the highlight is the compact structure of the car perfect for urban use. A remarkable turning circle and a good fuel consumption which makes it ideal for driving through traffic-laden roads and tight spaces for parking.
Suzuki Swift: As designed to be a sporty ride that has good handling characteristics and maneuverability the car is suitable for city use. This makes it rather easy to move around and park as it is not very large.
Outdoor/Active Lifestyle with Hatchback
Mazda Demio: Altogether, the Demio virtually provides a balanced and enjoyable drive of performance and fuel economy. It has a flexible interior as well as it has good handling hence recommended for people who travel often from the city.
Toyota Vitz: Since it is reliable and portable it is suitable for both areas with highly developed infrastructure and country areas. Because it is mainly a city car, it is reasonable in more challenging road conditions as well.
Countryside/Rural Areas
Nissan Note: We can recommend this Note for rural roads due to the comfortable legroom for passengers and comfortable ride. They are more fuel efficient thus encouraging longer trips and varying terrains.
In summary, the Honda Fit and Suzuki Swift are suitable for city use and the Mazda Demio and Toyota Vitz can be used for, the city as well as occasional off-road. The Nissan Note can be considered optimal for those, who plan to use the car for country or countryside driving.
Writer’s Perspective
As a writer observing the automotive landscape, the Toyota Vitz stands out as the most frequently seen model in my area. This observation is a testament to its widespread popularity and reliability. The Vitz’s affordability, excellent fuel economy, and low maintenance costs make it a favorite among various demographics, including young professionals, first-time car owners, and small families.
The Honda Fit also garners attention for its innovative design and spacious interior, particularly appealing to urban dwellers who appreciate its agility and practicality. The Suzuki Swift, with its sporty appeal and nimble handling, attracts younger drivers and those who value a fun driving experience.
The Mazda Demio, known for its stylish design and sporty handling, is favored by those who enjoy a balance of performance and efficiency. The Nissan Note’s advanced features and spacious interior make it an excellent choice for those who need a versatile vehicle for both urban and rural settings.
In my country Tanzania, the Toyota Vitz’s dominance reflects its overall value, combining reliability, cost-effectiveness, and practicality. This trend underscores the importance of these attributes in making a car a top choice among consumers. If you are in a chance of finding which one can suite you Toyota Vitz is the choice.
I am a car enthusiast and experienced freelance car writer with over 5 years in automotive journalism. Recognized for delivering engaging and informative content across diverse websites and blogs, prominently featured on platforms like BE FORWARD. A passion for cars, coupled with a proven track record of insightful articles, showcasing a deep understanding of the industry.
With over 5 years of writing expertise in the automotive domain, I specialize in comprehensive coverage of car-related topics. My portfolio spans engaging reviews, up-to-date news, and in-depth features, showcasing a versatile understanding of the automotive landscape. This experience reflects my commitment to delivering insightful content that captivates readers across a broad spectrum of car enthusiasts and general audiences.
My favorite car is the Range Rover Sport for its luxurious design, powerful performance, and unparalleled comfort on and off-road.
