The humble family hatchback is taking a beating from SUVs and premium models – the former offering that high-up driving position and rugged looks, the latter proving far more affordable on finance agreements than they have a right to.
But Brits still buy thousands of family hatchbacks each year, proving the segment isn’t dead yet. In fact, the second and third best-selling cars in the UK are the Ford Focus and VW Golf.
But what if you can’t afford the very latest model, or don’t want to be suckered into a several-year finance package? We’ve rounded up seven of the best of breed, all available on the used market in great condition for under £5,000.
Ford Focus
In terms of practical, good-to-drive and cheap-to-run family hatchbacks, the Ford Focus reigns supreme. Particularly with our £5,000 budget in mind, it makes excellent sense. You’ll be able to pick up a decent condition car with relatively low miles, and it’ll deliver day in, day out.
The Focus does well in terms of driver enjoyment too. It’s arguably one of the better cars in its class to drive, with communicative steering and a reasonably composed ride. Whatsmore, there’s tons of interior space to play with, and a decent boot capable of swallowing up all manner of items.
Skoda Octavia
Skoda has always had a knack for hitting the nail on the head when it comes to good value family hatchbacks. The Octavia stands out as a particularly strong package. Though it may appear to be a saloon, this Skoda’s cavernous boot is accessed via a – yes, you guessed it – a hatchback.
It means that you get all the dynamic styling of a saloon but with the practicality levels of a hatch. Good examples of the Octavia aren’t tricky to find with our price point in mind, either, and you’ll likely find a car with relatively low miles and a good amount of standard equipment, too.
Volkswagen Golf
Much like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen’s Golf is somewhat of a household name. The reason? Well, it’s been one of the most popular cars in the UK sales-wise for many, many years, and this is down to its combination of rock-solid build quality, dynamic drive and overall practicality.
It makes the Golf a compelling used buy, too. Though the ‘dieselgate’ scandal which shook the German company to its core may be fresh in the minds of many, look past that and you’ll still find a well-rounded and good value used car purchase.
BMW 1 Series
BMW dipped its toe in the hatchback market a little while back with its 1 Series, and it’s only gone from strength to strength since then. It may have initially been a little too expensive to qualify as an entry-level choice, but now that many used examples are on the market, it’s a more appealing prospect than ever before.
The 1 Series’ crucial trait was its sporting drive; much like many BMW vehicles, even lower-powered versions felt good to drive. You’ll also be able to get your hands on a good example of the 1 Series for our budget.
Audi A3
Budget cars may not often be associated with a premium badge, but the popularity of the Audi A3 for business customers means the used market is flooded with affordable examples of the German hatchback.
Offering good looks, typical Audi luxury and decent levels of technology, the A3 does it all — and at a reasonable price, too.
Honda Civic
There are few second-hand cars as dependable as a Honda Civic. The firm is known for producing some of the most reliable cars on the market and has found a loyal customer base as a result. Pair that with fun driving dynamics, and some spritely engine choices, and you’re on to a winner.
Examples in this budget boast bags of tech and solid service history — and if you’re feeling racy, even a high-performance Type-R can be had.
Vauxhall Astra
A prominent figure on the road, it’d be mad not to include the Astra on a list of budget hatchbacks. Since its introduction in 1979, the British public has come to love the Astra as a result of its good value, solid driving dynamics and respectable practicality.
Its popularity means there’s plenty on the used market. With £5k to work with, examples from the early part of this decade come into play — often with mileage below 70,000 and a good amount of kit on-board.