Hatchback Cars: Understanding the Hatchback Style and Key Features

The term “hatchback” gets used often when discussing vehicle body styles. But what exactly qualifies a car as a hatchback, and what are the benefits of choosing a hatchback model? This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the hatchback design and how these versatile vehicles compare to other body styles like sedans and SUVs.

Defining the Hatchback Car

Hatchbacks are defined by a few key characteristics:

• Two box design — shared passenger and cargo areas
• Rear door provides full access to cargo space
• Rear seats fold fully flat to create more storage
• Wheels positioned at the corners to maximize interior room
• Distinctive sloped rear roofline profile

The rear door that lifts open to access the shared cargo space is the hallmark of hatchback models. This provides greater utility than a traditional trunk.

Key Benefits and Advantages of Hatchbacks

Hatchbacks offer unique advantages for shoppers compared to traditional sedans and wagons:

• Versatile cargo space — Hatches allow easy loading of oversized and irregular items with fold-down seats.
• Larger feeling interior — The lack of a rear compartment divider makes the space feel expansive.
• Easier access — The liftgate opening allows much simpler loading than a trunk.
• Sporty styling — The sloped roofline lends a sporty, performance-oriented look.
• Fuel efficiency — The aerodynamic shape often allows for slightly better fuel mileage ratings.

If you regularly haul bulky gear or want a balanced blend of utility and sportiness, a hatchback may be the right fit.

Distinguishing Hatchbacks From Similar Body Styles

Hatchbacks occupy a unique space between sedans and SUVs. Here’s how they compare:

Vs. Sedans:

• More cargo versatility
• Easier access to storage
• More casual vibe

Vs. SUVs:

• Lower ground clearance
• Smaller overall size/footprint
• Often better fuel efficiency

Vs. Wagons:

• Sloped versus boxy cargo area
• Typically fewer available seats
• Often sportier driving dynamics

Hatchbacks blend attributes from each style. Depending on your priorities and needs, hatches can offer an appealing middle ground.

Examples of Well-Known Hatchback Models

Many popular affordable vehicle lines offer hatchback variants:

• Honda Civic Hatchback
• Toyota Corolla Hatchback
• Mazda3 Hatchback
• Kia Rio Hatchback
• Hyundai Veloster
• Subaru Impreza Hatchback
• Volkswagen Golf Hatchback

Hatchbacks now comprise a significant portion of compact and subcompact models from both domestic and import brands.

Comparing Passenger and Cargo Room

While smaller than SUVs, modern hatchbacks can be quite spacious:

• Passenger volume — Similar legroom and shoulder room to comparative sedans. More headroom in hatchbacks with tall rooflines.
• Rear seat space — Varies model to model, but some hatches have generous second row legroom for car seat accommodation.
• Cargo volume — Ranges from mid-teens to low-20 cubic feet behind second row. Expandable to mid-50s cubic feet with seats folded in larger models.

Test drive rear seat comfort and cargo capacity fully loaded to ensure a hatchback has the interior roominess you require.

Hatchback Design Variations

Hatchbacks come in different configurations:

• 2-door — Typically have just front doors for the cabin. Smaller and sportier.
• 4-door — Extra rear doors improve rear seat accessibility. More popular.
• 5-door — 4 doors plus the hatch opening. Maximum practicality.
• Liftbacks — Hatches where rear door is angled with the rear window. Provides a larger opening.

Consider rear seat access and cargo needs when choosing ideal door counts. Liftbacks offer the largest rear openings.

The History and Origins of Hatchbacks

The original mass-produced hatchback was the Aston Martin DB2 launched in 1950. The Renault 4 helped popularize small hatchbacks in 1961. They grew ubiquitous in the 1980s and 90s with models like the VW Golf GTI and Honda Civic leading the way.

Modern hatchbacks retain the folding rear seats and liftgate access pioneered over 70 years ago while adding more interior room and amenities.

FAQs

Are hatchbacks more expensive than sedans?

Pricing is similar. Hatchbacks are often the least expensive model variants due to higher production numbers.

Do the rear seats completely fold flat?

Yes, the rear seats fold fully flat to maximize cargo space, unlike traditional sedans with trunk dividers and pass-throughs.

Is the only opening the rear liftgate?

No, most hatchbacks offer a larger hatch with traditional front doors for the driver and passengers. A few have just the upward rear opening.

Are crossover SUVs considered hatchbacks?

While similar, crossovers have higher ground clearance and available AWD systems that distinguish them from standard hatchback models.

Are there advantages to a 2-door versus a 5-door hatchback?

A 5-door provides easier access to rear seats. But 2-door models have a sportier, coupe-like appearance and tend to handle slightly better.

With cargo flexibility and stylishprofiles, it’s easy to see why hatchbacks remain a popular choice for shoppers wanting utility without SUV size.

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