hatchbacks

A hatchback is a car body style characterized by a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area, which is integrated with the passenger compartment. Most hatchbacks are four- or five-door models, with a rear hatch replacing a conventional trunk lid. This layout emphasizes interior versatility and easy loading, often with rear seats that fold to expand cargo space.

The modern hatchback emerged in the 1960s and 1970s with compact five-door models from European manufacturers. The Renault 5 (introduced in 1972) and the Volkswagen Golf (launched in 1974) helped establish the configuration as a mainstream choice. In many markets, hatchbacks account for a large share of compact- and subcompact-segment sales.

Key features include a rear hatch integrated with the passenger area, a relatively flat cargo floor, and rear seats that fold to expand capacity. Most hatchbacks are front-engine and front- or all-wheel drive, focusing on efficient packaging and affordability. Modern examples deploy split-folding rear seats and modular cargo configurations to maximize flexibility.

Hatchbacks range from small subcompacts to compact cars, and include three- and five-door variants; the five-door form is by far the most common. The term hot hatch refers to performance-oriented versions with enhanced engines and handling. Hatchbacks offer practical space and good fuel economy, but may have less trunk volume than wagons.

Global markets vary in popularity. In Europe and parts of Asia, hatchbacks are a dominant urban-car choice. In the United States, availability and consumer preferences have shifted toward SUVs and crossovers, though many brands continue to offer hatchback models or hatch variants of compact cars.