Hatchbacks have been popular cars in the US for decades. They are the perfect combination of maneuverability, economy, and versatility. Given the city's dense traffic and fluctuating fuel prices, small cars are becoming a smart choice for many drivers, from students to families with children.  In this article, we have gathered the 12 best hatchbacks available in the US in 2024-2025, focusing on comfort, safety, technology, operating costs, and driving pleasure.

1. Honda Civic Hatchback

Average price: from $ 25,000

Honda Civic stands for reliability and longevity. The hatchback version offers an excellent design and an expanded interior. It is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo engine that produces up to 180 hp, which makes it very dynamic.

The Civic interior is minimalist and emphasizes ergonomics. The multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the advanced Honda Sensing safety systems make it an excellent choice in its class.

Pros:

  • Reliable and economical engine
  • Spacious interior and trunk
  • Advanced technologies

2. Toyota Corolla Hatchback

Average price: from $24,000

The Toyota Corolla Hatchback is a stylish and reliable representative of the segment. The updated design gives it a youthful and bright look, and the 2.0-liter engine produces 169 hp, which is more than enough for everyday use.

The interior design of the Corolla Hatchback focuses on comfort and high-quality workmanship. Safety is ensured by the Toyota Safety Sense complex, which includes adaptive cruise control, a collision avoidance system, and a lane assist system.

Pros:

  • High reliability
  • Extensive standard equipment
  • Sporty appearance

3. Mazda3 hatchback

Average price: from $27,000

The Mazda3 Hatchback offers premium features at an affordable price. Its recognizable design, with a characteristic radiator grille and aggressive look, gives the car an expensive appearance. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available.

The 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine produces up to 191 hp, and the turbo version up to 250 hp. (with premium fuel). This makes the Mazda3 one of the most dynamic hatchbacks in this segment.

Pros:

  • High-quality interior
  • Excellent handling
  • Available all-wheel drive

4. Volkswagen Golf GTI

Average price: from $ 31,000

The Golf GTI is an icon in the world of hot hatchback cars. It combines sporty character with the everyday usability of a car. With a 2.0-liter turbo engine with 241 hp. The GTI offers a truly exciting driving experience.

The interior has a modern design with a digital instrument panel and touchscreen. Sports seats with good lateral support emphasize their sporty character.

Pros:

  • Sporty features
  • High-quality craftsmanship
  • Abundant features

5. Hyundai Elantra GT (until 2022) / Hyundai i30 N 

Average price: From $23,000 (Used Elantra GT)

Although production of the Elantra GT has ceased in the US, it remains a popular choice on the used car market. The hatchback, based on the European i30, is characterized by high-quality suspension and comfortable handling.

Hyundai plans to bring a popular version of the i30 N to the US, with a 2.0-liter turbo engine that produces 276 hp. This could be a real alternative to the GTI or Civic Type R.

Pros:

  • Good value for money
  • European steering
  • Spacious trunk

6. Subaru Impreza hatchback

Average price: from $24,000

The Impreza is the only hatchback in its class with standard all-wheel drive. It's perfect for the northern states, where snowy winters are common. Although its 2.0-liter engine produces 152 hp, it may not shine with its performance. However, its comfortable suspension and well-thought-out ergonomics make it a pleasant companion on the road.

Pros:

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Spacious interior
  • High level of safety

7. Chevrolet Bolt EUV (electric hatchback crossover)

Average price: from $27,000

Although the Bolt EUV looks more like a crossover, it is still technically a hatchback. It has an all-electric powertrain with a range of up to about 398 km on a single charge. The interior is spacious, especially for rear-seat passengers. The Bolt supports fast charging and is equipped with technologies such as Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving system.

Pros:

  • Environmentally friendly
  • Affordable electric car
  • Spacious interior

8. Mini Cooper Hatchback

Average price: from $26,000

The Mini Cooper is an intelligent and charismatic choice. Thanks to its short wheelbase, it offers exceptional handling. Also available in S versions (189 hp) and JCW versions (up to 228 hp), it is one of the most entertaining hatchbacks on the market. The quality of the interior is excellent, and the retro design emphasizes the car's uniqueness.

Pros:

  • Striking appearance
  • Sporty handling
  • Wide range of configurations

9. Kia Rio hatchback

Average price: from $18,000

If you are on a limited budget, the Kia Rio Hatchback is one of the best deals on the market. Simple but reliable design, excellent fuel economy and basic technology make the Rio ideal for students and city drivers. The 1.6-liter engine produces 120 hp, and fuel consumption is about 6.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle.

Pros:

  • Low price
  • Excellent cost-effectiveness
  • Good warranty

10. Ford Focus

Average price: from $ 15,000 (used)

Although Ford has stopped selling the Focus in the United States, it remains popular in the used car market. The Focus Hatchback had excellent driving characteristics and was available in sporty versions, ST (252 hp) and even RS (350 hp).

Rumors of a new global version of the Focus, returning under the EV (or hybrid) brand, have many car enthusiasts keeping an eye on Ford's news.

Pros:

  • Good driving 
  • Many variations (from basic to sporty)
  • Availability on the secondary market

11. Acura Integra hatchback

Average price: from $32,000

The revival of the legendary Integra name in 2023 has aroused great interest among car drivers. The new generation Acura Integra is a premium sports hatchback based on the Honda Civic platform, but with improved soundproofing, a more elegant interior, and adaptive suspension.

The base version has a 1.5-liter turbo engine (200 hp), while the Type S version has a 2.0-liter engine from the Civic Type R (320 hp) and a manual transmission, making it a real gift for enthusiasts.

Pros:

  • Sporty character
  • High-quality interior
  • Excellent handling

12. Fiat 500e (electric hatchback)

Average price: from $34,000

The Fiat 500e is a retro-style compact electric hatchback that returns to the US market with an updated platform and improved performance. Its small dimensions and quiet, environmentally friendly transmission make it ideal for city traffic.

The range is up to 150 miles (about 240 km), which is sufficient for most daily trips. Fiat focuses on style and offers a variety of colors and equipment options.

Pros:

  • Unique design
  • Ideal for the city
  • Maneuverability and easy parking

The bottom line

Hatchbacks are versatile, compact, and comfortable cars that perform well in city traffic and country driving. Thanks to the wide range of models, you can find a small car that suits your lifestyle – whether it's the sporty Golf GTI, the premium Mazda3, or the affordable Kia Rio.

With the advent of electric cars and semi-autonomous driving technology, hatchbacks are constantly evolving, offering more comfort, performance, safety, and economy than ever before. 

When making a choice, it is important to consider not only design and price, but also reliability, maintenance costs, warranty, and liquidity on the secondary market. Which hatchback model you choose depends on your priorities. The most important thing is to choose the model that will bring you joy every day.