Hatchbacks used to be the default all-rounders, practical, economical and affordable to tackle everyday life with. In recent years, SUVs have swooped in and taken the top spot as some of the most popular cars on the market, but that doesn’t mean the hatchback is dead. There’s still some excellent SUV alternatives to choose from.
Using our detailed review structure, we’ve evaluated the best hatchbacks and ranked them based on which ones we’d recommend. Each vehicle undergoes extensive testing with the Parkers team, first at international car launches, then closer to home on UK roads, followed by long term tests. We consider 10 key categories when reviewing cars, these include: performance, handling, behind the wheel, comfort, running costs, green credentials, reliability, equipment, safety and practicality.
In our list below, you’ll spot a few longtime favourites as well as some electric newcomers that rival traditional hot hatchbacks.
Best hatchbacks for 2025
The best and most practical hatchback
Following the facelift, the Octavia’s engine range was paired back to two petrol and two diesel options. The smallest 1.0-litre petrol engines were cut from the lineup along with the plug-in hybrid. However, we expected the plug-in hybrid to rejoin the offering in the near future. In the meantime, a 1.5-litre petrol mild hybrid powertrain is available as well as some impressively frugal diesels.
To find out more, read our full Skoda Octavia review
Pros
- Variety of options and prices
- Spacious interior
- Good fuel economy
Cons
- Pared back engine range since facelift
- Cheap-feeling buttons inside
| Performance | 108-201bhp |
| Starting price | £26,775 |
| Insurance group | 12-23 |
| Fuel economy | 42.2-68.9 mpg |
| Boot space | 600 litres |
Seriously good, excellent value
Standard Range models can achieve around 200 miles while the Extended Range version can travel for more than 300 miles on a single charge. Keen drivers will be happy with its enthusiastic performance and well-weighted steering feel. We reckon the whole package, including a seven-year warranty, is enough to tempt drivers to make the switch to EV.
To find out more, read our full MG4 EV review
Pros
- Beats more expensive competitors
- Composed, engaging handling
- 300+ mile range possible
Cons
- Lack of physical buttons
- Seats not very adjustable
| Performance | 167 - 241bhp |
| Starting price | £26,995 |
| Fuel economy | 3.6 - 3.8 miles/kWh |
| Insurance group | 27-33 |
| Boot space | 363 litres |
Former Car of The Year is still a great hatchack
Since it’s marketed as a fairly premium model, there’s no basic entry-level option but that means the base model is well equipped. Mid-level Sport trim is our pick of the bunch but upgrade to Advance for a sunroof. Although rear headroom could be better, the interior is very comfortable and ergonomic with physical controls for important functions.
To find out more, read our full Honda Civic review
Pros
- Powerful hybrid engine
- Real buttons for tech controls
- Golf-beating boot space
Cons
- Average boot size
- Rivals more fun to drive
| Performance | 140bhp, |
| Economy | 56.5 - 60.1 mpg |
| Boot space | 410 litres |
| Insurance group | 28 |
| Starting price | £35,005 |
Five decades as one of the best hatchbacks
Entry-level 1.0-litre petrol engines have been phased out in favour of more refined 1.5-litre TSI EVO units. The plug-in hybrid powertrain has moved from a 1.4-litre petrol engine to a 1.5-litre unit and its 10.6kWh battery has grown to 19.7kWh to increase electric-only range to more than 80 miles.
To find out more, read our full Volkswagen Golf review
Pros
- Efficient, refined petrol engines
- Improved infotainment system
- Electric and plug-in powertrains
Cons
- Average boot size
- Rivals more fun to drive
| Performance | 108 - 201bhp |
| Starting price | £27,420 |
| Insurance groups | 14-27 |
| Fuel economy | 38.2 - 67.3 mpg |
| Boot space | 381 litres |
Brilliant all-rounder
The fourth generation 1 Series was introduced in 2024 with an updated interior to match the rest of BMW’s lineup. Both the infotainment and driver’s display are integrated into a single curved unit which is angled towards the driver. Many of the controls are now operated via the touchscreen but shortcut buttons are always visible.
To find out more, read our full BMW 1 Series review
Pros
- High-quality interior
- Sporty driving experience
- Tech-forward cabin
Cons
- Limited range of engines
- Small rear cabin for passengers
| Performance | 114-187bhp |
| Starting price | £31,065 |
| Fuel economy | 50mpg |
| Insurance group | 16-23 |
| Boot space | 300 litres |
Trendy and passenger-friendly
A recent facelift has given the Leon a better electric range for the plug-in hybrid version, bringing it more in line with the Golf equivalent. With five trims to choose from, there’s a Leon for every budget. Sharp steering gives it an edge above other hatchbacks but some drivers will find the FR Sport’s 18-inch wheels make the ride quite firm.
To find out more, read our full SEAT Leon review
Pros
- Updated plug-in version
- Precise steering
- Roomy for rear passengers
Cons
- Suspension is too firm
- Unintuitive touchscreen controls
| Performance | 108-201bhp |
| Starting price | £24,250 |
| Insurance group | 11-25 |
| Fuel economy | 39.8-65.7 mpg |
| Boot space | 380 litres |
Electric hot hatch capable of 300+ miles
Lower and stiffer suspension gives it a hot hatch feel compared to the ID.3 but this can make it a bit unsettled over bumps in the road. Entry-level versions come well equipped and pricing is largely comparable with close rivals. The MG4 EV is a much cheaper alternative though and pricier Born variants start edging into Tesla Model 3 territory.
To find out more, read our full Cupra Born review
Pros
- Stylish design and premium touches
- Rear-wheel drive
- Long range battery option
Cons
- Needs better brake feel
- Expensive choice vs ID.3
| Performance | 201-226bhp |
| Starting price | £34,535 |
| Insurance group | 25 - 28 |
| Fuel economy | 3.5 - 4 miles/kWh |
| Range | 253.5 - 342.4 miles |
| Boot space | 385 litres |
Refined, quality pick
Available with petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid powertrains, there’s an engine option to suit every application. While Audis are known for being accomplished motorway cruisers, the A3 is just as enjoyable on local roads with more twists and turns. Add in impressive build quality and it’s up there with the likes of the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
To find out more, read our full Audi A3 review
Pros
- Enjoyable to drive
- Great tech experience
- Good residual values
Cons
- Pricier than competitors
- Rear legroom is tight
| Performance | 108-241bhp |
| Starting price | £28,920 |
| Fuel economy | 37.7 - 65.7 mpg |
| Insurance group | 14 - 29 |
| Boot space | 380 litres |
Striking and reliable family hatchback
A new infotainment system was introduced with the facelift which is much improved over the previous laggy version. The touchscreen is slightly larger too and absorbs some physical buttons but as the system is more responsive this isn’t too much of an issue. Compared to rivals, the Corolla is let down by an almost claustrophobic rear passenger compartment.
To find out more, read our full Toyota Corolla review
Pros
- Excellent efficiency
- Reputation for reliability
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Restricted rear cabin space
- Less powerful than rivals
| Performance | 114-193 bhp |
| Starting price | £30,505 |
| Insurance group | 14-22 |
| Fuel economy | 39.4-64.2mpg |
| Boot space | 361 litres |
Striking take on the humble hatchback
Where it was once ditching physical controls, Citroen has reintroduced some quality feeling switchgear. Skip the entry-level trim ‘You’ and the C4 is equipped with a head-up display in addition to a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster. With plenty of room for passengers, it’s an affordable all-rounder.
To find out more, read our full Citroen C4 review
Pros
- Impressively comfortable ride
- Lots of space
- Eye-catching design
Cons
- Not the sportiest
- Average boot space
| Performance | 114-201 bhp |
| Starting price | £23,105 |
| Fuel economy | 38.2-64.2 mpg |
| Insurance group | 8-22 |
| Boot space | 395 litres |
FAQs: Best hatchbacks to buy in the UK
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What is the best hatchback in the UK?
The Skoda Octavia wins our vote for the best hatchback in the UK. It’s unbeaten on value for money with a wide range of choices in the £28,000 to £37,000 bracket. Passengers will be comfortable in the front or back and there’s ample room for luggage in the boot. A recent facelift means it’s fitted with the latest tech and its petrol, hybrid and diesel options are very economical. We’re expecting a plug-in hybrid option to rejoin the lineup soon.
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Which hatchback has a 5 star rating?
We awarded our favourite hatchback, the Skoda Octavia a rating of 4.1 out of 5. Our expert reviewers assess cars based on 10 key features: performance, handling, behind the wheel, comfort, running costs, green credentials, reliability, equipment, safety and practicality. Fierce competition makes it tough for a car to achieve a 5 star rating.
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What is the most stolen hatchback in the UK?
Close to 54,000 cars were stolen in the UK in 2024. The car that appeared most frequently on the most stolen cars list was the Ford Fiesta. While Fiesta thefts were down year-on-year by 25% it still topped the charts with 4,446 pinched from their owners. The second-hand parts market is thought to be one of the main reasons the Fiesta is so popular with thieves, since they are fairly common, there’s strong demand for spare parts.
Coming in second place was the Volkswagen Golf with 1,727 thefts in 2024. Again, this number was down compared to 2023 but the model’s popularity encourages thieves. For newer cars that have keyless entry, we recommend purchasing a Faraday box to keep the key signal protected. For older cars, or as an additional deterrent, a steering wheel lock can offer some peace of mind. -
What is the best secondhand hatchback?
Of the best used hatchbacks on the market, the Volkswagen Golf (2013-2020) comes out on top. A Mk7 Golf can be had for less than £5,000. Depending on what you need it for, there’s lots of engines to choose from and this generation’s interior is aging gracefully. For the same money, you could find a lovely Mk6 example but we think it’s worth looking for a Mk7 as it’s a big step up.
If the budget stretches up to £10,000 and you’re looking for something a bit sportier, we suggest the Ford Fiesta ST (2012-2017). Also a Mk7 model, the Fiesta ST is perfect for British roads, surprisingly economical and available in three or five-door configurations.
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