Other hatchbacks
Ford Focus RS
MSRP: $36,995 Rally-driver wannabes and hot-hatch hooligans, your wait is over: The Focus RS is here. With a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that sends 350 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels, the RS comes standard with a six-speed manual and a unique torquevectoring system. Michelin Pilot Super Sports wrap nineteen-inch wheels; we recorded a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds in our testing. Developed with input from Ken Block, we judge the RS to be better than the Subaru WRX, WRX STI, and VW Golf R.
BMW i3
MSRP: $43,395 With its carbon-fiber/aluminum structure and electric powertrain, the i3 advances BMW’s legendary driving dynamics into the future. It handles well due to a low center of gravity; in our testing, it went from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. The EPA estimates a battery-only range of 81 miles; it charges in 3 hours on a 220-volt outlet. An optional gas engine extends the total range to 150 miles, quelling dead-battery anxiety. For 2017, the i3 will have an estimated battery-only range of 114 miles.
Audi A3 Sportback e-tron
MSRP: $40,475 A pleasing blend of hybrid and hatchback, the A3 e-tron gives you Audi cachet and power, plus an EPA-rated 83–86 MPGe. In fairness, in our test, we saw just 40 MPGe, but by most every performance measure the A3 e-tron still beats the BMW i3, the Chevrolet Volt, and the Ford C-Max Energi. A turbo four and a six-speed automatic team with an electric motor and battery. Electric-only range is rated at 16 miles. With 14 cubic feet of cargo space, this hatchback is roomy enough for everyday tasks.
Kia Rio
MSRP: $16,390 The Rio is a perky and fuel-efficient sedan or five-door hatchback, and as a Kia, it’s a great value. The 1.6-liter four makes 138 hp and drives the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. The base LX has manual door locks and windows, A/C, and satellite radio. The EX gets power windows, cruise, and remote keyless entry. The SX gets 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport suspension, nav, heated leather seats, and a sunroof. An all-new Rio will go on sale in late 2017.