Hatchback heroics
If you’re looking for a new small car, you can either be led by fashion — or you can decide to go with the smart choice
Small SUVs and crossovers may be all the rage these days, but don’t overlook the range of fantastic small hatchbacks on the market. Here are six of the best-selling ones.
DACIA SANDERO
In a world of over-priced bells and whistles, Dacia’s tagline could well be ‘Why pay more?’
The Sandero offers plenty of space, practicality and tech, all wrapped up in a stylish package. Inside, it’s all about functionality over flair, with plastics dominating the cabin, but there’s a durable and understated charm to it.
On the road, it isn’t particularly thrilling, but there’s little to complain about either. It’s smart, practical and economical — no wonder it’s Europe’s best-selling car so far this year.
Price range: €17,990 - €19,190 Engine choice: Petrol
CO2 emissions: 119 - 140g/km Boot space: 328 litres
Euro NCAP: 2 stars
HYUNDAI i20
The i20 may not be the most stylish small hatchback available, but it’s reliable and solid like that dependable friend who won’t let you down and doesn’t steal the spotlight.
Bigger than many rivals, it has enough headroom and legroom for even the tallest of your crew. On the road, it’s not going to set pulses racing, but is comfortable and refined. It’s easy on the wallet with low running costs, and is packed with standard features.
Price range: €22,345 - €26,895 Engine choice: Petrol
CO2 emissions: 121 - 123g/km
Boot space: 352 litres Euro NCAP: 4 stars
OPEL CORSA
A strong contender in the small hatchback market, the Corsa has built a reputation on decades of practicality, innovation and adaptability to changing trends.
Whether as a fuel-efficient petrol city car or a modern EV, the Corsa appeals to a broad audience.
A new version was launched at the end of last year with fresh new styling. A hybrid has just joined the range but the electric version is still the pick of the bunch. Price range: €25,095 - €31,695 (excluding EV option)
Engine choice: Petrol, hybrid and electric
CO2 emissions: 102 - 127g/km Boot space: 309 litres
Euro NCAP: 4 stars
The Hyundai i20 is still reliable and solid — a bit like that dependable friend who won’t let you down
SKODA FABIA
The Skoda Fabia might be the poster child for sensible small hatchbacks, but don’t let that fool you. It’s tough to beat when it comes to practicality, comfort and roominess.
Inside, it may be more functional than plush, but it’s packed with those “simply clever” features that Skoda is known for, and the boot is practically cavernous.
If you’re after a bit more zing, the top-spec Monte Carlo version is powered by a punchy engine.
Price range: €25,090 - €31,360 (excluding the Monte Carlo)
Engine choice: Petrol
CO2 emissions: 114 - 122g/km
Boot space: 380 litres
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
TOYOTA YARIS
The Yaris has been beloved of Irish drivers for generations, and while other cars might turn more heads, offer a sportier drive, or boast a plusher interior, when it comes to fuel efficiency, the Yaris leaves most rivals in the dust. Add in a package of standard features and Toyota’s stellar reliability, and it’s easy to see why this little car is such a hit.
If it’s something a bit wilder you’re after, the GR Yaris (crafted by Toyota’s motorsport division) is a rally car for the streets, with razor-sharp handling that defies belief.
Price range: €25,045 - €35,105 (excluding the GR Yaris)
Engine choice: Petrol, hybrid
CO2 emissions: 92 - 123g/km
Boot space: 286 litres
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
VW POLO
The new Polo has grown so much, it now towers over the original Golf. On the outside there are new LED lights and a revamped front. Inside, it’s classic Polo — smartly laid out with a high-quality feel. The digital cockpit blends instruments and infotainment into an easy-to-use unit.
Despite its compact look, the Polo offers surprising space, including a roomy boot. It’s the combination of build quality and a smart interior that continues to woo Irish buyers.
Price range: €24,245 - €31,200
Engine choice: Petrol
CO2 emissions: 118 - 123g/km
Boot space: 351 litres
Euro NCAP: 5 stars