Hatchbacks are the perfect size vehicles for daily city use. They take the best parts of their big brother counterparts, and compact them to make driving on traffic-heavy roads more efficient. The small automobiles have shrunk in size over the years, but are still optimized for fuel economy and passenger comfort while tearing down the road.
Take a look at some of your best options for hatchbacks in 2017 before you decide to go out and purchase one.
1. Chevrolet Spark
An upgrade from the Spark 2016, the 2017 version speaks to the driver who is seeking affordability and convenience. With a starting price of $13,535, the 2017 Chevrolet Spark is a real deal in the budget class.
The functionality of the vehicle is not compromised. It comes fully loaded with the latest tech gadgets like the MyLink infotainment system, an Apple and Android CarPlay interface, 4G LTE connectivity, and a rearview camera. An additional $2,205 gets your Spark fitted with cruise control, steering wheel controls and phone connectivity.
The keyless 2017 Spark is powered by a 1.4L four-cylinder engine that generates 98 horsepower. A 1.2L engine offers 84 horsepower. The perfectly designed exterior serves as a complement to the Spark’s interior. Although it doesn’t offer as much legroom as a sedan, the space is comfortable enough for full-size adults. There isn’t much room for moving around, though.
There are plenty of perks to owning and driving the 2017 Chevrolet Spark. However, the vehicle’s biggest flaw is the driving experience. A cruise down rough roads is an especially nasty experience, as much as is the case while at high speeds. In a terms of fuel economy, the Spark offers 31/39 (city/highway) mpg. This, by hatchback standards, is quite low.
2. Ford Fiesta
Our second car in this category is the 2017 Ford Fiesta. The six-speed manual geared hatchback comes with a dual-clutch to offer a smooth driving experience. The Fiesta gets 120 horsepower thanks to the 1.6L four-cylinder turbo-powered engine under its hood. The power train guarantees a top speed of 115mph and a coverage of 0-60 mph in 8.7 seconds.
The base hatchback trim, the Fiesta S Hatch, will set you back about $13,960. You get the choice between an automatic transmission and a manual. A 1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder engine is available for $995 more. The driving experience is given a boost thanks to the traction control, and electronic stability system coupled with electronically enabled steering assist.
The 2017 Ford Fiesta comes with a responsive dashboard. Fitted with SYNC communications, voice recognition capability, vehicle health analysis system, AppLink, and 911 assist, the Ford Fiesta does have a lot of technology built in for your convenience while driving.
The Fiesta, however, has drawbacks that you should be aware of. The vehicle’s back seats are not as comfortable, especially on bumpy roads. A rear-view camera is only offered on the titanium model. During crash tests, the 2017 Ford Fiesta was given a low score, which can be a major concern for you if safety is your top priority when searching for a hatchback. On fuel efficiency, the Fiesta is also a poor performer, only achieving 27/35 mpg. This is even lower than the Chevrolet Spark.
3. Honda Fit
This is a very popular car in the hatchback category. It combines a sporty look with a fine driving experience, all starting at the affordable price of $16,965. This is what you need for that everyday tour of the city.
With a 1.5L engine, the vehicle offers a comfortable 130 horsepower with a top speed of 119mph. The vehicle is a six-speed manual geared beauty that is also promising for the fuel efficiency conscious buyer. Highway driving gets you about 41 mpg. This is fantastic fuel efficiency by hatchback standards. It has been considered one of the best in its niche for seven straight years running.
The interior is a marvel. Its design includes fitting the fuel tank below the front seats, offering a lower floor on the back seats and the cargo area. Thanks to the large windows, the Fit’s interior has a spacious and a well-conditioned feel.
Technology is alive in the Fit, with a responsive navigation system, Android and Apple CarPlay, and Lane Watch system. The overall assessment by the federal government on the Fit’s safety offered a 5-star rating, thanks to its technologically inspired safety considerations.
The braking system was highlighted as an issue that the company needs to consider checking out. Other than that, the car fits the bill for the ultimate hatchback experience.
4. Toyota Yaris
Toyota introduced a budget-friendly car fit for your daily use; the 2017 Toyota Yaris. The Yaris comes with a 1.5L engine, and is available in two options when it comes to transmission. You can get a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission, depending on your taste. The sporty look and great finishes falls in line with Toyota’s unique design in engineering.
The Toyota Yaris offers 106 horsepower under the hood, garnering a top speed of 108mph. As a popular brand among hatchback lovers, the Yaris delivers a combined 36mpg consumption level from the EPA tests conducted.
The interior feels roomy with clear visibility from all angles. Its dashboard is equally impressive. With a 6.1 inch captivate touch-screen, it is loaded with an infotainment system that combines Bluetooth connectivity, blind-spot sensors and responsive navigation.
The downside to owning a Yaris is that you will have to put up with slow acceleration and a squeezed feel for families.
5. Hyundai Accent
Hyundai needs no introduction. Over the years, the Hyundai brand has proven to be an economical and affordable vehicle that fits everyday use. With a six-speed manual transmission, the vehicle offers a comfortable 137 horsepower with 38mpg combined. The quiet driving experience is second to none in this category.
The 2017 Hyundai Accent is credited for its responsive steering, with a lean and sporty body to complete the look. A roomy interior is a strong suit, and it does not compromise on the tech features in the car. It comes equipped with an impressive audio system that includes Bluetooth connectivity, iPod features, and Sirius XM access.
The vehicle’s acceleration, however, is a thorny issue for most because of its low responsiveness. The car is fitted with electronic traction control, stability control, anti-whiplash headrests, and anti-lock braking, all combined to improve the safety of the passengers.
The Accent 2017 sets you back $15,570. With that kind of a price tag, the vehicle should have an impressive crash-test score and a great fuel economy as a strong suit. However, traffic safety institutions ranked the test reports as acceptable, and in this category, that is considered low. The visibility in the hatchback is also a concern for most.
Hatchbacks have become a sought-after alternative on most city roads, and as such their major points of consideration include fuel efficiency, an affordable price tag, and convenience for everyday use. The five mentioned hatchbacks fit this profile and each offers their pros for you to consider.
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