The best hatchbacks: ranking the hot cars in 2024

Hatchbacks are confidently leading the ranking of popular cars. Models can have folding second row seats, and the interior can be changed to prioritize the passenger or cargo area.

These autos usually have powerful engines and are capable of traveling long distances without problems. Experts have released a ranking of the best hatchbacks in 2024.

Toyota GR Yaris

Under its advanced body, the GR Yaris has a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 257 hp and an all-wheel drive system with optional mechanical torque vectoring differentials. The car accelerates to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds. The model also has a chassis and suspension that are perfectly tuned for fast driving in almost any weather. With communicative controls, confident cornering balance and extreme dynamism, the GR Yaris is a quality affordable car that confidently holds a place of honor in the ranking.

Honda Civic Type R

The previous version of the Honda Civic Type R was one of our favorite hot hatchbacks, so expectations were high for this model - and thankfully, it didn't disappoint. Under the hood, the familiar turbocharged 2-liter engine gets a lighter flywheel, a revised intake and a freer-flowing exhaust that help boost power from 316 to 325 hp. The double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear axle are very similar, but the track is now 15mm wider, working in conjunction with a 15% stiffer body.

Hyundai i20 N

Hyundai discontinued the i20 and i30 N models in early 2024, although they still seem new enough to justify inclusion on this list. The younger N model is a simpler attempt at a classic hot hatchback than the larger i30 N. The auto has a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, a six-speed manual transmission and good dampers. The i20 is strikingly spacious and well equipped.

Ford Focus ST

Ford has had some brilliant hatchbacks top the charts over the past few decades, although the current Focus ST isn't as reliable as the Yaris and Civic. It's the first Focus ST with adaptive dampers and a limited-friction differential with electronically controlled drive front axle. There's also a Ford Focus ST Track Pack with a very special manual suspension, bigger brakes and lightweight alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Corsa rubber.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S

The Mercedes-AMG A45 S is an all-wheel drive hatchback that has a 2-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 416 horsepower. The straight-line power is undoubtedly incredible, but more surprising is the quality of its sophisticated drivetrain. The body control at speed is unrivaled, but the chassis is also up to the task, ensuring quality traction. The precision, weight and textured feedback from the electrically assisted steering rack are the best in this class.

Audi RS 3

The car has an unrivaled, distinctive five-core engine, perfect for the engine bays of special sports coupes (as found in the TT RS). In addition, there's a new torque-distributing rear axle that works similarly to the AMG A45 S. Experts praise the model for its performance and stylish design.

Volkswagen Golf GTI

Previous versions of Volkswagen's long-lived Golf GTI topped this lineup of the most affordable performance cars. Volkswagen went in search of better handling and driver appeal with the eighth generation of its hot Golf, but achieved questionable success in doing so. Its 242-horsepower 2-liter four-cylinder engine remains somewhat underpowered compared to the rest of the cars in this ranking. In the GTI Clubsport package, the car's key figures increase to 296 horsepower. Soon should get an updated Golf, which should solve some problems with the multimedia screen.

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