Best Hatchbacks of 2022

Hatchbacks offer flexibility and utility with the handling of a small car. We reviewed the best hatchbacks of 2022, so you can hit the road.

The Honda Civic is the best overall hatchback

Hatchbacks are excellent vehicles for those who love the handling of a sedan but prefer a more accessible and spacious trunk space. A hatchback offers flexibility because you can fold down the second-row seating, providing more cargo space. A sedan is different because you can't access the truck through the second row. Hatchbacks are a happy medium if you are not ready to drive a crossover or SUV. Continue your search for the perfect car with our top list of the best hatchbacks of 2022:

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Best Hatchbacks of 2022

  • Best Overall: Honda Civic Hatchback
  • Best Drive: Volkswagen Golf GTI
  • Best Value: Kia Rio
  • Best for Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Prius
  • Best Interior: Mazda 3 Sport
  • Best Tech: Polestar 2
  • Best for Electric: Chevy Bolt EV

Best Overall: Honda Civic Hatchback

Starting at $28,650 CAD.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honda Canada (@hondacanada)

Key Specs

  • Horsepower: 158hp
  • Engine: 2.0L, 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Efficiency (City/Hwy/Combined): 8.0/6.2/7.2
  • Drivetrain: FWD

Trim Levels

  • LX: $28,650
  • Sport: $32,150
  • Sport Touring: $35,650

Why We Chose It

The 2022 Honda Civic is the best overall for hatchbacks because of its approachable base-level pricing, comprehensive safety features, bold exterior design, stylish interior, and innovative technology features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Heated front seats
  • Rearview camera

Cons

  • Cloth seats in the base-level trim
  • No wireless charging
  • No heated steering wheel

The Honda Civic continues to be one of the best cars on the market with its reliability and sleek appearance, and the 2022 hatchback model is no different. With all-new exterior features such as updated door handles, a noiseless roof, LED headlights, and an available power moonroof. And updated interior features with an open cockpit design, wider windshield, heated front seats, and available Bose sound system. The Honda Civic Hatchback is one of the top vehicles on the market for smaller cars. The Civic Hatchback has extensive safety features with blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, advanced airbag design, and child safety features, making it an excellent choice for families or new drivers.

Best Drive: Volkswagen Golf GTI

Starting at $31,495 CAD. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Volkswagen Canada (@vwcanada)

Key Specs

  • Horsepower: 241hp
  • Engine: 2.0 TSI, 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Efficiency (City/Hwy/Combined): 9.8/6.9/6.2
  • Drivetrain: FWD

Trim Levels

  • GTI: $31,495
  • GTI Autobahn: $34,995
  • GTI Performance: $38,995

Why We Chose It

With a 2.0L turbocharged engine, an impressive 241 horsepower, and a 6.2-second acceleration, the Golf GTI has the best drive for 2022 hatchbacks.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Wireless charging
  • Heated front seats
  • Panoramic sunroof available on all trim levels

Cons

  • Cloths seats in the base-level trim
  • No navigation system in the base-level trim

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of the most iconic hatchbacks. It is beloved for its utility, performance, handling, and speed. The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI continues to impress with its sporty exterior and interior features. The latest features include: head-up display, a sports steering wheel, a 10.25” digital cockpit and a panoramic sunroof.

Best Value: Kia Rio

Starting at $17,395 CAD.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kia Canada (@kiacanada)

Key Specs

  • Horsepower: 120hp
  • Engine: 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Efficiency (City/Hwy): 7.7/6.1
  • Drivetrain: FWD

Trim Levels

  • LX+ MT: $17,395
  • LX+: $18,595
  • LX Premium: $19,995
  • EX Premium: $22,495

Why We Chose It

The 2022 Kia Rio is the best value for hatchbacks due to its low price tag and available features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Heated front seats
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Rearview camera

Cons

  • No sunroof is base-level trims
  • No leather seats in any trim levels

The Kia Rio Hatchback starts at a competitive base price of $17,395 and is loaded with interior and exterior features, usually only available with higher trim levels. Along with its approachable price, the Kia Rio also has extensive safety features such as a rearview camera, vehicle stability management, hill-assist control, and a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system. This hatchback is the perfect starter car for teenagers or new drivers.

Best for Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Prius

Starting at $29,350 CAD.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toyota Canada (@toyotacanada)

Key Specs

  • Horsepower: 120hp
  • Engine: 1.8L, 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Efficiency (City/Hwy/Combined): 4.4/4.6/4.4
  • Drivetrain: FWD

Trim Levels

  • Prius: $29,350
  • AWD-E: $30,390
  • Technology AWD-E: $32,750
  • Technology: $33,950

Why We Chose It

The 2022 Toyota Prius is the most fuel-efficient gas-powered hatchback on the market. With combined fuel consumption of 4.4L/100km, the Toyota Prius has the best fuel efficiency.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Heated front seats
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Available AWD in higher trim levels

Cons

  • Heated steering wheel on available in higher trim levels
  • Sunroof on available in the highest trim level

The Toyota Prius has lots of excellent interior and exterior specs. However, the main appeal of the Prius models is their fuel efficiency. For the 2022 Prius model line-up, two trims (AWD-E and Technology AWD-E) have electric on-demand all-wheel drive. The Prius is the only non-luxury hybrid vehicle available in all-wheel drive. The Toyota Prius hatchback is the perfect choice for a commuter car that doubles as a weekend adventure mobile with a stylish design, all-wheel drive, and fantastic fuel economy.

Best Interior: Mazda 3 Sport

Starting at $22,400 CAD.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by MazdaUSA (@mazdausa)

Key Specs

  • Horsepower: 155hp
  • Engine: 2.0L, 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Efficiency (Combined): 6.4
  • Drivetrain: FWD

Trim Levels

  • GX: $22,400
  • GS: $25,100
  • GT: $30,800

Why We Chose It

The 2022 Mazda 3 Sport Hatch has the best interior, a first-class-style cabin with generous legroom, scalloped seats, and a cockpit compared to a luxury-level vehicle.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • 8 speakers
  • Heated front seats

Cons

  • Leather seats only available in higher trim levels
  • No heated steering wheel in base-model

The Mazda 3 Sport Hatch has luxury interior features with a standard hatchback price tag. The Mazda 3 Sport GT features automatic dual-zone climate controls, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, leatherette-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, windshield-projected driving display, and an optional premium Bose sound system. Overall, the Mazda 3 Sport Hatch is priced competitively for its features and utility.

Best Tech: Polestar 2

Starting at $53,950 CAD.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Polestar (@polestarcars)

Key Specs

  • Horsepower: 231hp
  • Range: 434km
  • Fast Charge Time: Up to 80% charge in 40 mins
  • Drivetrain: FWD

Trim Levels

  • Long Range Single Motor (FWD): $53,950
  • Long Range Dual Motor (AWD): $58,950

Why We Chose It

The Polestar 2 has the best tech with its intuitive software, smart collision avoidance systems, and seamless connectivity.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Google Assistant features
  • Heated front seats
  • High performance audio

Cons

  • Leather seats are an extra cost
  • Standard metallic colour

The Polestar brand is Volvo’s electric vehicle subsidiary. The Polestar 2 is one of the most innovative and stylish EVs. Electric vehicles can be pricey. However, the Polestar 2 has a competitive starting price compared to other luxury-level vehicles. The Polestar 2 takes on a more sedan-style compared to the traditional hatchback. The minimalist interior and exterior design, innovative Google connectivity, and great range make the Polestar 2 a great choice for an electric hatchback.

Explore the world of electric with our top lists of electric SUVs, sedans, and trucks.

Best for Electric: Chevy Bolt EV

Starting at $38,198 CAD.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by chevrolet (@chevrolet)

Key Specs

  • Horsepower: 200hp
  • Range: 417km
  • Fast Charge Time: Up to 160km in 30 mins
  • Drivetrain: FWD

Trim Levels

  • LT: $38,198

Why We Chose It

The 2022 Chevy Bolt EV is best for electric because of its impressive range, fast charge time, and appealing price tag.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 10.2” infotainment system
  • Rearview camera
  • WiFi hotspot

Cons

  • Only one trim-level released for 2022
  • Not all safety features are standard in base-level trim

The 2022 Chevy Bolt EV is an affordable electric vehicle with a capable range and a stylish design. EVs can be expensive, but the Chevy Bolt EV has a lower MSRP and is applicable for most provincial and federal EV rebate programs. The Chevy EV bolt is smaller but would make for a great commuter car.

Final Verdict

With lots of hatchbacks on the market, there is an option for every budget, lifestyle, and personality. The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback won best overall due to its affordable starting price, safety features, stylish exterior, comfortable interior, and infotainment and tech features. The Honda Civic stands out with its striking appearance and comprehensive specifications available in the base-level trim.

Check out VINN's guide to gas-powered vehicle maintenance.

Compare the Best Hatchbacks of 2022

Best Overall Best Drive Best Value Best for Fuel Efficiency Best Interior Best Tech Best for Electric Best Overall

  • Honda Civic Hatchback
  • Starting Price: $28,650
  • Available in AWD: No
  • Electric, Hybrid, Gas: Gas
  • Horsepower: 158hp

Best Drive

  • Volkswagen Golf GTI
  • Starting Price: $31,495
  • Available in AWD: No
  • Electric, Hybrid, Gas: Gas
  • Horsepower: 241hp

Best Value

  • Kia Rio
  • Starting Price: $17,395
  • Available in AWD: No
  • Electric, Hybrid, Gas: Gas
  • Horsepower: 120hp

Best for Fuel Efficiency

  • Toyota Prius
  • Starting Price: $29,350
  • Available in AWD: Yes
  • Electric, Hybrid, Gas: Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 120hp

Best Interior

  • Mazda 3 Sport
  • Starting Price: $22,400
  • Available in AWD: No
  • Electric, Hybrid, Gas: Gas
  • Horsepower: 155hp

Best Tech

  • Polestar 2
  • Starting Price: $53,950
  • Available in AWD: Yes
  • Electric, Hybrid, Gas: Electric
  • Horsepower: 231hp

Best for Electric

  • Chevy Bolt EV
  • Starting Price: $38,198
  • Available in AWD: No
  • Electric, Hybrid, Gas: Electric
  • Horsepower: 200hp

Frequently Asked Questions

What Defines a Hatchback?

A hatchback is a 4-door passenger car with a trunk door that flips upwards. Hatchbacks also feature second-row fold-down seating, providing access to the trunk space and accommodating greater cargo volume. The main difference between a sedan and a hatchback is the trunk.

What Is the Best Hatchback on the Market?

There are lots of great hatchbacks on the market. Our top choice for hatchbacks in 2022 was the Honda Civic. The Honda Civic is a reliable hatchback with an affordable starting price and excellent interior and exterior features.

What Is the Cheapest, Most Reliable Hatchback?

In 2022, the cheapest and most reliable hatchback is the Kia Rio. With a starting price of $17,395, the Kia Rio is one of the most affordable new cars on the market this year. The Kia Rio also has extensive interior, exterior, and safety features, making it a reliable choice without breaking the bank.

Is a hatchback too small for your lifestyle? Check out our list of the top 7-seater SUVs.

Is a hatchback too small for your lifestyle? Check out VINN's review of the new Ford F-150 or our top list of the best 7-seater SUVs.  

At VINN, we work directly with you to guide you through the process of finding a new car. Our vehicle experts will work with you to ensure that you get the best value for the right car, and you can also browse our inventory

Happy driving!

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Josh
Josh
Wicks
Copywriter
Nov 14, 2022

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