What is a hatchback?

When defining a hatchback, you may hear a variety of generic descriptions such as a small family car, a town run-around, or a hot hatch. You will find these different types of hatchbacks will fall into different categories within the hatchback umbrella, for example, sizes of hatchbacks include small hatchbacks, mid-sized hatchbacks, and large hatchbacks. However, ‘hatchback’ actually refers to the way that you access the boot. To access the boot on a hatchback there must be a rear door that is hinged at the top and incorporates a rear window when opening and closing. The loading compartment is usually covered by an easily removable parcel shelf. In addition to easy access to the boot space, most hatchbacks tend to have folding rear seats which increases the capacity of carrying space. You can find small, mid-sized, and large hatchbacks available which makes them some of the most flexible and practical cars on the market.

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What type of hatchbacks are there?

Small Hatchbacks

Cars are split into size-based categories and small hatchbacks fall into what’s known as the B-segment. You may have heard small hatchbacks be referred to as ‘Superminis’. Some of the most popular small hatchbacks include the Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Fiesta, and Volkswagen Polo. The majority of manufacturers have at least one small hatchback in their range; you could also consider manufacturers such as Audi, Kia, Mazda, Peugeot, Skoda, and Toyota.

Family Hatchbacks

Hatchbacks are undoubtedly one of the favourable types of cars for family life as they are practical, cheap to run, and enjoyable to drive. Whilst remaining in the hatchback category, you can get mid-sized and larger hatchbacks which can often fall into the C-segment due to their slight increase in size. These bigger hatchbacks may be more suited to family life as they generally come with more legroom and luggage space. Many of the previously mentioned manufacturers offer a mid-sized hatchback in their ranges, popular mid-sized hatchbacks include Audi A3, Ford Focus, Mercedes A Class, Honda Jazz, and Volkswagen Golf.

Hot Hatchbacks

A Hot hatchback, otherwise known as a ‘hot hatch’ is a fairly modern term used to describe a high-performance hatchback. The hot hatch popularity started in the 1980’s and has grown ever since. The phrase hot hatch can be used on both small and mid-sized hatchbacks. These hot hatches typically have powerful engines and styling tweaks. They also keep the traditional Front-Wheel Drive configurations, with some exceptions which have a four-wheel drive option. Hot hatches are suitable for those looking for both high-performance, practicality, and style of a hatchback. There is a number well know hot hatches including both small hatchbacks and mid-size hatchbacks such as; Volkswagen Polo GTI, Honda Civic Type R, Ford Fiesta ST, Ford Focus ST, Ford Focus RS, Mini Cooper John Cooper Works, Toyota Yaris GR, and Hyundai i30 N. The Volkswagen Golf GTI is widely regarded as one of the first hot hatches. Most mainstream manufacturers have a ‘performance’ or ‘sport’ version of their model ranges which the majority of these hot hatches fall into. Some of the examples are Mercedes AMG, BMW M Sport, and Mini John Cooper Works.

Other body types you should consider

If you are undecided about a saloon as your next car then why not consider an SUV, Estate, or Saloon?

SUV Cars

SUVs are generally based on a hatchback, but with slight alterations to the size and ride height of the car. SUVs sit a bit higher than hatchbacks which makes them generally easier to get in and out of. An SUV may be a preferable choice if you prefer a higher driving position too. Click here to read more about SUV cars at carverse.

Saloon Cars

By definition, a saloon car that can seat four or more people has a fixed roof, and a boot hinged from the bottom of the rear window that is separated from the rear seats. Where car types such as a Hatchback will have their boot hinged at the top of the window. Saloon cars are typically larger than your average hatchback and smaller than the average SUV, depending on spec and make, saloon cars are usually stylish, well-fitted, and spacious inside.Click here to read more about Saloon Cars at carverse.

Estate Cars

An estate car is essentially a stretched-out hatchback, with a similar boot configuration with the boot hinged above the rear window. With this boot configuration, estate cars are too compared to SUV cars with the main difference being the lower driving position, another description of an estate car is that they are effectively a saloon car with the roof extended reward over the rear seats and boot, resulting in a much larger boot making a five-door vehicle. Click here to read more about Estate Cars at carverse.

Coupe Cars

Coupes aren't too dissimilar to Saloon cars. The main difference is the size of the vehicle, coupes are typically shorter and focused on a sportier driving experience. Coupe derives from the French verb 'couper' which means 'to cut', and this is in reference to the rear of the car being 'cut' to reduce the overall length. Click here to read more about Coupe cars at carverse.

Find your perfect used hatchbacks

There is a lot of variety of used hatchbacks on the market which can give you too many choices when deciding which one to choose. When searching for a used hatchback there are some things you may want to consider to help you make an informed decision. You should consider things such as your typical trip lengths, interior requirements, storage space, and usage - this will determine the size, fuel type, and trim level you will need from a used hatchback. You can get used hatchbacks in a few sizes so you should find out which type may suit your lifestyle before purchasing. We can help you to make your decision by offering you test drives in any of our used hatchbacks.

Here at carverse we have a range of used hatchbacks available for you to buy. If you are looking for your next used hatchback you can browse our forecourt online or by visiting our dealership. Alternatively, you can request a callback, or phone us on 01438 328 123 to enquire about used hatchbacks.