What Is a Hatchback?
Hatchbacks are a type of vehicle built on a 2-box body in which there’s 1-box for the engine and another box for the passengers and cargo area. This combined passenger/cargo box is a defining feature of the hatchback, which gets its name because of the hatch (rear door) at its tail. Of course, hatchbacks are more than their cargo space—if you’re considering a hatchback vs. another type of vehicle, here are a few helpful things to keep in mind.
Hatchback overview
There is some debate about the hatchback vehicle’s origins, with some people arguing the first hatchback was developed by a French automobile brand in 1938. In the vehicle, the trunk had a rear door with a split configuration that allowed the bottom half to be folded down (like a tailgate) and the top half to be folded up (like a traditional hatchback). However, because of this unique split configuration, some argue the vehicle wasn’t a true hatchback and that the actual first hatchback was invented by a different French automaker in 1965.
Today’s hatchbacks come in a variety of models typically with 3 or 5-door options. The defining characteristic of a hatchback is a hatch in the rear of the vehicle, which makes them convenient for loading cargo into the trunk. Additionally, hatchbacks may allow you to fold down the rear seats to increase the cargo space even more, which can be helpful when transporting bulky items. Passengers will also notice a spacious interior, which comes from the vehicle’s higher roofline. The unique design of hatchbacks allows them to feel spacious inside, but are easy to maneuver like small vehicles.
Hatchbacks are well known in the U.S., but they’re more common in other parts of the world, like Europe. So while many hatchbacks are on the market and available in the U.S., there may be fewer options than other vehicle types, for those who are seeking them.
Hatchbacks vs SUVs and CUVs
SUVs are also typically built on a 2-box body and with cargo and passenger room in mind—so what makes them different from hatchbacks? Historically, SUVs have been built using a “body-on-frame” method, in which the car body and chassis (the load-bearing part of the car) are constructed separately, then attached. Among other things, this makes it easier for SUVs to handle driving in rough terrain. Meanwhile, hatchbacks and sedans are built using the unibody method, in which the chassis and body are constructed as a single unit. However, crossover SUVs, also called CUVs, are built using the unibody method, making this distinction less clear (you can learn more about this in our article on SUVs.) The next biggest differentiator is the size, shape, and ground clearance of SUVs and CUVs vs. hatchbacks; SUVs and CUVs typically have a taller and boxier frame than hatchbacks, but smaller compact and subcompact SUVs and CUVs continue to blur this distinction.
Pros and cons of hatchbacks
If you’re interested in purchasing a hatchback, here’s a quick list of advantages and potential disadvantages to consider.
Advantages
● Adaptable cargo spaces: Hatchbacks provide easy access to cargo areas through their rear hatch. In some models, the cargo area can be made more expansive by folding down the rear seats.
● Maneuverability: Hatchbacks run on the smaller side compared to many mid- and full-size SUVs or trucks, making them easier to park and navigate through congested city streets or tight parking spaces.
● Higher roofline: Hatchbacks often sit taller than sedans, featuring more headroom for passengers in the cabin, particularly those in the rear seat.
Disadvantages
● Inventory: Hatchbacks are less common than other vehicle types in the U.S .; lower demand can sometimes mean lower inventory, which means less availability of stock at some dealers.
● Aerodynamics: Hatchbacks may not always be as streamlined as sedans, which can reduce their fuel efficiency and impact how often you fill up your tank.
2024 Mazda3 Hatchback pre-production models with options shown throughout
Types of hatchbacks
Though hatchbacks share a general shape and build, there are several subtypes to explore, each with its own characteristics and capabilities.
Compact and Subcompact
As the name suggests, compact hatchbacks run on the smaller size for hatchbacks, and generally have between 100-109 cubic feet of interior space and are usually between 161-187 inches in length.
Midsize
Larger than compact hatchbacks but smaller than their full-size counterparts, mid-size hatchbacks offer a balance between space and agility. Midsize hatchbacks typically have more headroom and more interior space than compact hatchbacks, making them suitable for small families or those who require a bit more room for passengers and cargo.
Full-size
Moving up, full-size or regular hatchbacks meld comfort with practicality. They’re suitable for families of 5 or fewer, and those who need additional cargo space. Depending on the manufacturer, full-size hatchbacks may come with a wider range of luxurious features and amenities than smaller models, such as premium audio systems, advanced safety technologies, and high-quality materials in the cabin.
Hatchback trims: Luxury, sport, and more
Hatchbacks can also come in a variety of different “trim” levels, from a base model (typically the most affordable) to luxury, sport, and more. Note that trim naming conventions, packages, and pricing vary from model to model and manufacturer to manufacturer.
Luxury hatchbacks are frequently equipped with upgraded amenities and features like leather upholstery, infotainment systems, advanced driver-assistance features, and more powerful engines. Meanwhile, sport hatchbacks combine the convenience and comfort of a typical hatchback with the performance and nimbleness of a sports car. They may incorporate high-end engines, responsive handling, and sport-tuned suspension systems, on top of athletic exterior styling.
Explore Mazda3 Hatchback trims and specs
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DISCLAIMER COPY:
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the latest competitive information available at the time of posting. Information herein is subject to change without notice and without Mazda incurring any obligations. Please review a variety of resources prior to making a purchasing decision. Visit Resource Center for more articles.