While style will always be up for debate, hatchbacks are starting to gain more traction over the classic sedan body style. Hatchbacks can add more practicality as well as a personality when it comes to your daily ride. These types of cars offer the sleekness of a traditional sedan and the utility of an SUV. Here we have highlighted the most dynamic hatchback models.

2021 Volkswagen Golf  GTI

Estimated price: $30,000

The GTI is an all-knew option that embodies agility, functionality, and pleasure. It’s the sportier alter ego of Volkswagen’s classic Golf hatchback. With the GTI, you have the choice between the standard six-speed manual or the elective seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.  This hot hatch gets its power from a zippy 2.0-liter turbo engine. The only downside is that it will be while before it officially hits the streets.

On the inside, the GTI offers a modern design with vintage elements. The interior has the same sharp styling as its Audi family member but comes standard with VW’s classic plaid aesthetic from the 1960s. Its infotainment system is nice and efficient and controlled by a 10.0-inch touchscreen that comes standard. It also comes with a few advanced safety features like automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

2020 Honda Civic Type R

Starting price: $36,995

Think the Civic Type R is all talk? Just wait till you drive it. This is a captivating ride that truly makes driving more fun. It has a turbocharged engine and a 306-horsepower that might be too aggressive for some along with its embellished exterior. The hatch version of this sedan demonstrates Honda’s athleticism and dynamics.

The Type R is not the smoothest ride, but its soft interior makes for a more comfortable experience. The cabin comes with loud, red trimmings, and racecar inspired seats. Another exciting element of this hatchback is the new suite of standard driver-assist features. The infotainment system is decent and offers the expected Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. 

2020 Mazda 3

Starting price: $21,500

The Mazda 3 is a solid sedan made more interesting as a hatchback. Each version of the Mazda is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, with the hatchback version, you get the option for a manual transmission plus an all-wheel drive. It’s not the speediest option but it feels sporty enough.  

With the Mazda 3, you also get great value and a sense of luxury. We still get excited about the interior upgrades Mazda has made recently. The standard cabin is nice but it is worth exploring the higher trim levels for added bonuses. As far as infotainment goes, Mazda is finally making Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity standard.

While the Mazda 3 is a strong competitor, there is a large flaw to consider. The hatchback has a big blind spot aka, poor rear visibility. This can make tasks like parallel parking more difficult. The blind spot doesn’t make this vehicle a total wash, it might just take additional time to get used to. A huge plus is that advanced driver-assist features come standard on this hatch, which includes blind-spot monitoring to make things easier.