It’s a well-known fact that hatchbacks are a practical, popular car choice. Their small size is perfect for easy parking and maneuvering, and yet they have enough space in the cabin and boot for you to fit everything you need. These cars are useful and flexible, and are usually the best option for most prospective car buyers. So, if you’re looking to buy one of the new hatchbacks of 2021, but are unsure what the right choice is, then this is the article for you. Have a look through this comprehensive list of the top 5 hatchbacks this year has to offer, and discover which one suits your lifestyle and needs.

Honda Civic Type R

The new Honda Civic has a slightly over-the-top, juvenile design, but still remains a good choice from the selection of new hatchbacks available in 2021. This four-door hatchback is the fastest Honda Civic available, with a 306 hp turbo-charged four-cylinder and a standard six-speed manual transmission. For such a powerful front-drive car, it has surprisingly easy handling, making for a smooth, enjoyable ride. The Honda Civic Type R is powerful, while maintaining everyday practicality, with a large, roomy cabin and a decent cargo space. It also comes with all of the tech you could want, with features like a wireless smartphone charger and a 9 inch touchscreen.

Peugeot 308

The new Peugeot 308 has a sleek, timeless look. It’s elegantly designed and thoughtfully put together, which creates the perfect balance of aesthetic appeal and practicality. When it comes to the power of this little hatchback, you can choose whether a fuel-efficient three-cylinder PureTech petrol engine is the way to go, or whether you would prefer an impressive BlueHDi turbo diesel engine. The compact size and innovative technology of the PureTech engine has even been awarded the ‘International Engine of the Year 2015, 2016 and 2017’ prize in the 1 litre – 1.4 litre engine category. However, if you choose the powerful BlueHDi engine, you can still drive without guilt, because it complies with all of the Euro 6 emission standards. This hatchback has all the technology you can imagine, with advanced driver assist offering various features, including a reversing camera. There is also an advanced 3D navigation system with voice recognition, and your smartphone can easily pair with the car.

Volkswagen Golf

The VW Golf is the hatchback that all other hatchbacks are measured against, and their latest installment is just as satisfying. It remains pretty standard, retaining all the successful elements from previous versions, but not adding many impressive changes. VW has spruced up their new Golf with a variety of technology, ensuring that it keeps up with the other new hatchbacks on the market. It’s great value, with its small, turbo-four engine still boasting a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. A composed ride, it also provides a spacious interior and generous cargo hold. It’s more fuel efficient than its faster and sleeker competitors, and definitely more affordable as well.

Mazda 3

The 2021 Mazda 3 is an example of Mazda edging into luxury car territory, while still offering an accessible car for the everyday driver – if a little bit more pricey. This model has three four-cylinder engines, offers all-wheel drive, and shows off an up-scale, elegant interior. It also has improved performance and speed, with easy, natural steering, and a powerful engine. For someone looking for a hatchback with all the gadgets and tech instruments, the Mazda 3 is definitely a winner. It has a high-tech driver assist feature, an impressive 8.8 inch infotainment display, and the option for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

Chevrolet Bolt

The Chevy Bolt is an all-electric option, and the perfect choice for the eco-conscious driver. It will also appeal to mainstream car shoppers, as the model includes all the standard features you will be looking for. The design is not very elegant, and a bit unappealing, but not everyone would be put off by that. Especially since it has an EPA driving range of over 400 km, and it’s extremely fast to charge – it’s able to replenish 160 km of range in half an hour. This eco-friendly hatchback offers quick acceleration, one-pedal driving, and an overall composed and comfortable driving experience – while still providing plenty of power. It’s practical and large enough for everyday use, but lacks premium quality materials in the cabin, with a lot of plastic used instead. However, the dashboard does offer a modern instrument display and a decently sized central touchscreen.

 Choosing the Right Hatchback

When you come to making the decision, and choosing one of these hatchbacks for yourself, make sure you have a think about what your priorities and needs are. If you’re looking for something with a luxurious interior and elegant look, then the Mazda 3 might be the right pick, however, if you want something that ticks all the practical boxes while maintaining an intelligent, timeless design – then the Peugeot 308 is the best choice. Whichever hatchback you go for in the end, just make sure you go to a reliable dealer who will offer reputable and genuine assistance.

Edward Bertrand