For the Responsible Urban Explorer
If you’re in the market for a new hatchback, there are plenty of different brands and cars to consider. Of course, you can save yourself a fair bit of money by going for a used vehicle instead. Many of these cars are affordable at prices under $10,000, and the best part, plenty of them are totally reliable.
1. 2012 Honda Fit
Here’s an early warning: you’re about to see a lot of Honda Fits on this list. For some reason, consumers absolutely adore this hatchback. Used models start at $6,000, and are considered one of the most versatile and agile cars out there, with fantastic fuel economy.
Mariordo - Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz on Wikimedia
2. 2017 Kia Soul
Another car you might see once or twice is the Kia Soul. It is considered a very competitive hatchback and is best known for its seating, cargo space, and high safety ratings. It is on the slightly more expensive end, starting at $8,500 for a used model.
3. 2017 Chevrolet Sonic
If you’re a fan of Chevrolet, you’ll be thrilled to hear the Sonic is well-known for its safety scores and reliability ratings. In addition to this, it has a smooth design and a unique look that will make it easy to pick out from a crowd.
4. 2012 Toyota Prius c
It was only a matter of time until Toyota makes its appearance, after all, it is one of the most reliable brands on the market. The Prius is known to be a solid choice if you’re after a safe and responsible car that will last you a while.
Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) on Wikimedia
5. 2013 Kia Rio
If you’re a fan of Kia but the Soul doesn’t do it for you, then you might love the sleek design of the Rio. This car is known for its smooth and comfortable drive, and the slick cabin will keep your guests happy and engaged.
6. 2012 Mazda Mazda3
If you’ve been itching to get into a Mazda, look no further than this 2012 model. It has that slick and bold design that will have you looking twice, and is known for its nimble handling. The fact that it starts at $3,600 also makes it quite attractive.
7. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
While Volkswagen is more popular in European countries, the Golf has made quite a name for itself in American markets as well. It has a sporty engine that consistently performs, and also boasts a unique look that helps it stand out.
8. 2011 Honda Fit
As promised, the Honda Fit makes another appearance, this time with the 2011 version, which starts as low as $4,500. It also has plenty of cargo space and can fit an impressive five people with comfort.
9. 2018 Kia Rio
Another Kia worth considering is the 2018 model of the Rio. Starting at $8,200, this vehicle has a lot to offer from a comfortable interior to user-friendly features. In addition to this, it consistently scores high in terms of reliability.
10. 2018 Chevrolet Cruze
Considered the commuter's best friend, the Cruze does lots of things right. It has a great fuel economy, plenty of roomy seating, and a fairly high reliability score too. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $8,000 to $14,000 on the higher end.
11. 2009 Scion xB
If you haven’t heard of Scion, you’re not alone. At one point, they were a marque of Toyota, but now they produce their very own unique hatchbacks. The xB in particular has a quirky design, a strong engine, and a cabin fit for those that need the leg room.
Niels de Wit from Lunteren, The Netherlands on Wikimedia
12. 2012 Scion xD
If you are considering Scion but the xB just isn’t doing it, then the xD might be what you need. It has some of the greatest performance out there and is reliably able to handle tight spaces without much stress.
13. 2009 Audi A3
Audi is known as a luxury brand, and they’re no stranger to putting out sleek-looking hatchbacks. Luckily, this used model starts as low as $3,500, and is adored for its stable performance and reliable safety ratings.
M 93 (talk) 16:15, 17 January 2009 (UTC) on Wikimedia
14. 2014 Kia Soul
The Kia Soul makes another appearance, this time with its 2014 variant. What sets this vehicle apart from the rest is its bold design and plentiful occupant space. Despite being a hatchback, this car won’t have you feeling claustrophobic, even with a big family.
15. 2013 Hyundai Accent
Hyundai is best known for its performance engineering and reliability, and the Accent continues to deliver on this promise. It has an abundance of cargo space, and many consumers enjoy its comfortable interiors. You can also get it for a relatively low price ranging from $5,000 to $6,500.
Rutger van der Maar on Wikimedia
16. 2013 Honda Fit
Well, well, well, if it isn’t the Honda Fit again! This 2012 version is best known for having plenty of space and an outstanding reliability score. It’s the perfect companion for those with a busy life, as it can take pretty much whatever your schedule throws at it.
Tokumeigakarinoaoshima on Wikimedia
17. 2012 Nissan Leaf
Nissan has its ups and downs, but what the Leaf does perfectly is environmental friendliness. However, just be ready for a smaller-than-usual interior. Of course, it more than makes up for this by being very affordable.
Mariordo - Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz on Wikimedia
18. 2010 Honda Fit
If it isn’t the Honda Fit again! The 2010 version is best known for its fuel economy and safety, but of course, it too innovates on storage, and has statistically stayed at the top of hatchback shopping lists.
Tokumeigakarinoaoshima on Wikimedia
19. 2018 Ford Focus
Ford is better known for its powerful trucks and all-American branding, but it makes a pretty cool hatchback too. The Ford Focus in particular is best known for its available powertrains and smooth ride.
20. 2009 Honda Fit
What better way to end the list than with a Honda Fit. This time from the 2009, it surprised everyone with its arguably fun driving dynamics. In addition to this, it has all the usual bells and whistles from a stable fuel economy to all the cargo space you’ll need.
