Best hatchbacks to buy in 2024
Looking for a hatchback but don't know where to start? Here are six of the best
A life without hatchbacks in the UK would be like America without pickup trucks – it wouldn’t feel right, and no one would know what to drive.
With these small cars being the most popular mode of transport for Brits, and with so many choices on offer, it can be hard to know which to choose.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a list of the six best hatchbacks you should consider buying.
Hatchback cars
BMW 1 Series
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A used BMW 1 Series can be had with either a petrol or diesel engine and looks especially good when plastered in BMW ‘M’ trim bits.
When you get behind the wheel, you can tell this is a proper driver’s car, from the way the steering feels to the driver-focused cabin and controls.
There’s even ample space for rear-seat passengers and an impressive 380-litre boot, which is plenty for your weekly shop or a few soft bags and/or suitcases.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
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If there’s one car to take on the 1 Series in a head-to-head battle, it’s a used Mercedes-Benz A-Class with its stylish looks and effortless class.
The versatile A-Class is available with the choice of petrol and diesel engines and, unlike its rival, gets a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option with up to 53 miles of electric range.
Its main draw is the level of quality materials and tech found inside. From Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to a clever touchpad-style control for the infotainment screen, you’ll feel right at home.
It’s also got a well-sized 350-litre boot with a deep boot floor, allowing plenty of space for suitcases and larger objects.
Volkswagen Golf
 "Volkswagen e-Golf")
One of the most popular hatchbacks worldwide is a used Volkswagen Golf, and it isn’t hard to see why. With its strong build quality and ease of use, why would you want anything else?
It comes with a selection of petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and even electric power options in the form of the e-Golf.
Its interior is functional, well laid out and easy to use, with all the same tech you’d expect to find in other VW products, and with a 380-litre boot, it matches its BMW rival.
Read our VW Golf review
Mini Hatch
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If you don’t want anything too serious then a three-door used Mini Hatch is the perfect car for you. What it lacks in space, it more than makes up for in pure driving fun.
It can be had as a petrol, diesel or all-electric model with the Mini Electric, and if you’ve got a phobia of straight lines then this car’s for you thanks to its circular infotainment system, air vents and gauge cluster.
While it’s one of the most fun to drive on this list, it’s not the most practical, with a mere 211 litres of boot space. Having said that, it’s plenty for a couple of small suitcases or a few softer bags.
Read our Mini Hatch review
Ford Fiesta
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If it’s value for money you’re after, then it’s hard to ignore a used Ford Fiesta.
With sporty looks as well as eco-focused petrol, diesel and mild-hybrid petrol engines, this fun-to-drive hatchback is a great choice.
The interior is a great mix of sportiness and functionality, with its large physical dials and buttons as well as its great-feeling gearbox.
Vauxhall Corsa
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Rivalling the Fiesta as a great first car choice is a used Vauxhall Corsa. It too gets eco-focused engines with petrol, diesel and electric offerings.
Inside, it gets everything you would ever need from a learner car (or even for a well-experienced driver) – from a large infotainment screen and well-placed buttons, it’s very easy to live with.
It’s also practical thanks to ample rear passenger space and a 309-litre boot, beating the Fiesta’s 292 litres.