Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Hatchback Car in Canada
Written by DriveAxis.ca March 08, 2023
Hatchback cars have undergone some evolution over the past two decades, going from a staple of the small car market, to one of the defining features of crossover SUVs. Whatever form they take, hatchbacks continue to be popular with those who enjoy easy access to a lot of storage space. They’re typically defined by two-to-four door vehicles with a tailgate, the latter of which features storage space as part of the actual interior cabin, which is a stark contrast to vehicles with a traditional trunk.
Thanks to the mass adoption by crossovers, the hatchback car has only gained popularity, and it’s easy to see why. With more space to directly store items, it’s easy to pack in a bunch of luggage, groceries, and larger items like big screen TVs or long wood beams bought from the local carpentry store. That begs the question - which hatchback cars are the best for Canadian drivers? It’s not an easy answer, but we’re here to give you a few good suggestions.
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
The Golf continues to be a super-popular contender for many drivers, especially those who love the added flexibility of a hatchback system. The car has been around for the last few decades, and remains strong due to its convenient design, build quality, and a wonderful driving experience. Newer versions of the Golf have even adopted all-electric models for those who want to skip the gas station.
One of the best features of the Golf, however, is the all-wheel drive (AWD) model, which is great for getting around in snowy Canadian winters. Drivers get the benefit of a hatchback with a healthy assortment of bells and whistles, as well as a driving experience that outpaces a lot of its competitors.
KIA SOUL
Kia is no longer the laughing stock of the car community, especially since the company took its cues from Hyundai, and turned their brand image around. These days, Kia vehicles are considered an excellent choice for any age group, and the Soul is no exception. It’s perfect for a small family requiring some extra space to lug the kids and gear around, and it boasts some surprisingly hefty storage space on the inside.
The hatchback is just the icing on the cake, making the Soul one of the most convenient choices for Canadian drivers. The quirky design of the car will definitely divide customers, but for those who dig it, it’s definitely a fun ride. The Soul is even available in an all-electric drivetrain option sporting 178 total kilometers of driving range on a single charge, making it a great selection for the daily work commute.
MAZDA 3
Mazda’s popular 3 model has been a staple of the company’s longevity for a very long time, and each new update brings something better to the package. These days, the Mazda 3 offers a plethora of options for selective drivers, including a choice of turbocharged engines, AWD, and some nice interior options.
The sedan is the one that most drivers are familiar with, but there’s also a hatchback model for those who prefer that particular style. With great fuel economy and handsome good looks to round out the package, the Mazda 3 is still one of the top contenders when it comes to hatchbacks.
HONDA CIVIC
Ever-reliable, the Honda Civic continues to stand ready at the helm, just waiting to satisfy another driver. The car is renowned for its longevity, build quality and options, which serve a wide variety of customer needs and wants. On top of that, the newest Civics sport some nifty styling to attract younger buyers, as well.
The 2-door hatchback model is definitely a head-turner, featuring sleek lines and a sporty dome, all the way to the rear access. Though it lacks an AWD option, its FWD drivetrain is solid enough to get around in the winter…provided you’ve slapped a good set of winter tires on.
FORD FIESTA
Although Ford has entirely ditched cars - minus the Mustang - in favor of trucks and vans, pre-owned Fiestas are still readily available, and offer a lot of value for the buck. These peppy little hatchbacks have been a hit with younger drivers who need some space to haul the friends around, as well as gear, sports equipment and groceries, but the car has appealed to older drivers as well.
It’s a subcompact hatchback with a few features not usually glimpsed in cars of this type, particularly the choice between automatic and manual transmission. The Fiesta lacks the storage space of the other models on this list, but for those who don’t need to carry around a lot of items, it’s a solid choice. Although the Fiesta ceased production in 2019, there are still plenty of deals to be found on pre-owned models.
CONCLUSION
Hatchbacks continue to be a favorite of many Canadian drivers, especially those who want a bit more storage and versatility. Any one of the above cars could serve as a suitable daily commuter, as well as a weekend adventure vehicle. If you’re in the market for a pre-owned hatchback, let us find the perfect model for you.
DriveAxis has a large selection of hatchbacks available right now, and we’ll even handle all of the financing in-house, allowing us to guarantee approval regardless of your credit score. We’ve given you a few options when it comes to selecting a hatchback, but we’re always available to help you narrow down the best one for you and your family. Contact us today!
