HATCHES BUYER’S GUIDE forever!
Want a hatch that could become part of the family? Here are our top picks.
Many new-car buyers in the market for a budget-friendly small hatchback want one that feels like it could last forever, so that it can be passed down to the next generation. There are a handful of models that consistently deliver a strong level of reliability and economy; they don’t cost the earth and should stand the test of time.
Toyota Corolla GX ($30,290)
The Corolla continues to present the practicality and efficiency it has delivered to generations of Kiwis, with added technology and contemporary style.
The GX model has come a long way from the entry-level Corollas of the past. Safety certainly isn’t given a back seat, with the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense.
At the Corolla’s heart beats a reliable 2.0-litre engine, which produces 125kW; it consumes a sensible 6l/100km and has a CO
2 output of 139g/km. There’s no longer a manual option, with a smooth continuously variable transmission as standard.
Honda Jazz (from $28,000)
The new-to-market Jazz is a winner in terms of practicality, with the Magic Seat system that can contort into 18 different combinations. The range starts with the entry-level Life, moves up to the SUV-style Crosstar and the e:HEV Luxe hybrid.
The standard engine is a 1.5-litre, but the Luxe uses a clever hybrid system that can operate as a range extender, with the petrol powerplant generating electricity to power the electric motor. Mazda2 GSX (from $28,595) The Mazda2 is styled to look good from any angle. There are little touches like the leather-wrapped gear shift knob, handbrake handle and steering wheel that make the interior a bit special.
The GSX model features Mazda’s i-Activsense safety equipment, including night-time pedestrian detection and Secondary Collision Reduction.
Powering the Mazda2 is a 1.5-litre engine that develops 82kW, with consumption of 5.3l/100km and 161g/km of CO2 emissions. The Mazda2 uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, so if you are not a CVT fan, this will certainly appeal.
VW Polo TSI ($28,750)
The Polo is one of the more reliable and economical European model choices. It uses Volkswagen’s MQB platform, which standardises the parts of many of its small-medium cars.
The majority of the latest Polo models are powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 70kW. It ticks along frugally, consuming 4.9l/100km with 111g/km of CO2.
The base model TSI is equipped with a swift seven-speed dualclutch transmission. The standard Front Assist with city emergency braking can warn you in the event of critical situations, or support you with braking.