The humble hatchback makes the world go around, and despite the consistent rise in the popularity of SUVs, there’s still a place for them on the UK’s roads. There’s a bumper crop to pick from with the upcoming plate change too, and we’ve rounded up some of the best.
Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta has been the UK’s best-selling car for a long time now, and that’ll likely continue well into the 68 plate and beyond. There’s a version for everyone, from first driver-spec 1.0 Titanium to the enthusiast-loved ST.
This latest model remains excellent to drive, just as its predecessor was. The interior has also received a much-needed update, bringing with it better technology levels as well as an all-round improvement in build quality.
Volkswagen Polo
The latest Polo is everything the old car was, but better. It’s a paragon of simplicity and solidity in the supermini class and, though it’s not as sharp as a Ford Fiesta, is still great to drive.
A new platform means that interior space has been improved, with better practicality another result of the change. The Polo remains a well-made product, that’s for sure, with rock-solid build quality complemented by decent cabin materials.
Kia Ceed
The Kia Ceed may look like just another hatchback, but it doesn’t drive like one – it’s genuinely dynamic and great in the corners, a surprising development from a brand more associated with long warranties and big boots. Though the Ceed still has both of those things too.
An economical range of petrol and diesel engines are available with the Ceed, along with the option of either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. In short, there’s a powertrain to suit everyone’s needs.
Seat Ibiza
The Ibiza may be virtually identical to the Polo under the skin, but there’s plenty to recommend this stylish Spanish supermini. It’s great to drive and comes with the very best engines that the Volkswagen Group has to offer, plus it’s usefully cheaper than the Polo, too.
The little Ibiza is a good looking car too, with plenty of high-quality touches helping to lift the car’s overall feel. It’s also practical, with a surprising amount of cabin space available despite the car’s small footprint.
Ford Focus
Now in its fourth-generation, the latest Ford Focus has recaptured what made the original so great — excellent driving dynamics, equipment to compete with its close rivals and decent practicality to boot.
This new Focus delivers a compelling drive alongside excellent practicality – and we’d keep our eyes peeled for an upcoming, ‘hot’ ST version too.