What is the best BMW hatchback?
There’s a wide range of BMW hatchbacks available, but which of them is the best option? Our guide explores the features of a variety of models
Whether you’re after a performance model or an everyday car, BMW is a popular and appealing brand with plenty of models to pick from.
You don’t have to forgo practicality either, because a selection of these are available with hatchback-style boots, making them incredibly useable and good for carrying larger items.
Whether it’s a car for the town, a family runaround or something a bit larger, here are the best BMW hatchbacks.
BMW 1 Series
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When you think of a hatchback, small family cars typically spring to mind, and the BMW 1 Series is one such example.
Its main rivals are the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class, but it also competes in the same space as other popular models like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.
As well as a selection of trim levels, there’s a range of petrol and diesel engines to pick from, including a pair of performance models, but unlike some key rivals, there’s no hybrid option.
Is the BMW 1 Series hatchback model the best?
BMWs have historically been rear-wheel-drive, but the latest-generation 1 Series changed to a front-wheel-drive setup, which means it's more efficient and – crucially – has a bit more space in the rear.
Behind the sporty look and appealing design are plenty of practical features, like a large 380-litre boot, three ISOFIX points, and wide-opening doors.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
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Although many drivers prefer high-riding SUVs, MPVs and people carriers tend to offer a much roomier interior and space for at least five adults to sit comfortably.
This is true of the 2 Series Active Tourer, which was updated in 2022. During the update, however, BMW cut the 2 Series Gran Tourer from its lineup.
Don’t be fooled by its large size, because the range of efficient engines, including a plug-in hybrid setup, make light work of shifting a car full of people.
Active Tourer BMW 2 Series hatchback features
Precisely which features you can expect depends on which trim level you go for, but you can expect plenty of assistance like parking sensors and cameras to help navigate tight parking spaces.
Because it’s built with families in mind, there are plenty of storage spaces and the cabin is light and airy.
BMW i3
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When the i3 was first introduced, the only other mainstream electric car available was the Nissan Leaf. The i3 looked way ahead of its time and still does, despite having been discontinued by BMW in 2022.
Although it’s quite a tall car, it’s best thought of as a smaller model, sitting below the 1 Series in the range as the German car company’s smallest hatchback.
The quirky rear-hinged rear doors make getting into the back easy, but there’s only seating for two.
As battery technology progressed, so did the range. In its final years, the i3 could do nearly 200 miles from a full charge.
Why should I buy a BMW i3 hatchback?
The i3 has plenty of appeal and an eye-catching design, and because it was on sale for around a decade, there are plenty of used models to pick from without breaking the bank.
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé
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While the regular 4 Series coupé has a small boot opening, the Gran Coupé model – which adds a pair of rear doors – has a more practical hatchback-style boot opening.
It’s a popular alternative to the 3 Series saloon and it’s just as spacious, but looks a lot sleeker thanks to its sloping rear roofline.
On top of the regular petrol and diesel models, there’s a performance version, an electric model (badged i4), and even a performance version of the electric model.
Is the 4 Series Gran Coupé the best BMW hatchback model?
If you’re after a large hatchback that works just as well around town as it does on some twisting country roads, the 4 Series Gran Coupé has bags of appeal.
Add to that the fact that there are so many combinations to choose from – including an appealing electric version designed to take on the Tesla Model 3 – and there should be a configuration for every driver.
BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo
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The 6 Series Gran Turismo is a peculiar model that was only on sale for a short period of time but caters to those after SUV-like space in a saloon-like bodystyle.
The 6 Series GT replaced the 5 Series GT, and with it came some styling tweaks. The car is largely based on the 5 Series saloon but has a larger hatchback boot and some more interior space.
It was only available with the more powerful 5 Series engines, consisting largely of 3.0-litre units, and offered similar levels of luxury as an X5 SUV.
Is the 6 Series GT BMW hatchback right for me?
While SUVs continue to be incredibly popular, many drivers prefer sitting in a lower position and having a more aerodynamic – and economical – car.
The 6 Series GT has all the benefits of a 5 Series but makes it even more practical. They can be pricey, but that’s because they’re all high-spec models.
What is the most affordable used BMW hatchback car?
The most affordable models are BMW’s smallest hatchbacks, which include the current 1 Series, the previous-generation rear-wheel-drive 1 Series, and the electric i3.
If you’re after a larger car with a practical hatchback-style boot opening, there are plenty of used 2 Series Active Tourer and 4 Series Gran Coupé models to pick from.
Which is the most spacious of the BMW hatchbacks?
Consider buying the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (or the seven-seat Gran Tourer variant) if you need space for the whole family.
If you’re more concerned about boot space, something smaller like a 4 Series Gran Coupé may be more appealing.