By Nick Nelson | July 1, 2022, at 3:28 p.m.
Top Hatchbacks in 2022
There is a lot to like about hatchbacks. They offer a premium on cargo space while being easily maneuverable in the tightest of spots, and they also tend to be exciting to drive.
With a market that is flooded with new SUVs, hatchbacks are easily overshadowed yet are excellent alternatives in a great deal of cases. They include all the same, if not even better, cargo dimensions as small crossovers and return better gas mileage in most cases. Pricing for hatchbacks also tends to be lower than the competition in other car categories.
This slideshow will explore the top hatchbacks available in 2022. In each slide, we will compare and contrast traits like cargo space, mpg, and price.
Please note that we are continuously updating our scores and rankings at U.S. News as new data and research comes available and, as a result, the scores mentioned in this slideshow may not match those on our individual vehicle reviews and rankings.
9) 2022 Toyota Prius Prime
$28,220 | USN Score: 7.7/10 | 133 MPGe/54 mpg combined city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 36.6 cu ft
For those who prioritize gas mileage and a bundle of standard features, the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime hatchback is an excellent choice.
The Prius Prime offers cargo capacity that maxes out at 36.6 cubic feet, which is just above average for the hatchback class. The Prius Prime can seat up to five passengers across two spacious rows. Standard tech includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa. Safety goodies include features like standard adaptive cruise control, lane trace assist and pedestrian detection.
The Prius Prime handles decently though it’s not particularly sporty. The pump is where the Prius Prime really pays off, returning a combined 54 mpg.
8) 2022 Nissan Leaf
$27,400 | USN Score: 7.6/10 | 123/99 mpg city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 30 cu ft
The 2022 Nissan Leaf is an all-electric hatchback that offers speedy acceleration, spacious cargo capacity and easy-to-use tech.
The Leaf can seat up to five people. Seats are generally comfortable and offer enough space with the exception of the middle back seat. Cargo capacity maxes out at 30 cubic feet, which is above average for the hatchback class. Power wise, the Leaf puts out 147 horses, which is ok around town. Fuel economy estimates are strong, but it should be noted that the Leaf offers a lower driving range and slower charging times than many other electric vehicles.
Standard technology includes an 8-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
7) 2022 Mini Cooper
$22,900 | USN Score: 7.7/10 | 27/37 mpg city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 40.7 cu ft
The 2022 Mini Cooper offers refreshed styling and more standard features, making an exciting option for the hatchback class. The Mini is known for its retro styling and sporty driving dynamics.
In the best of circumstances, the 2022 Mini Cooper can seat up to five passengers. In reality, you’re probably better off leaving the rear seats for children or pets. Maximum cargo figures depend on which body style you pick, so you could have as little as 13.1 to 40.7 cubic feet. Performance is where this Mini really shines, offering thrilling driving dynamics, but gas mileage is underwhelming for the class.
5) 2022 Toyota Prius
$24,525 | USN Score: 7.8/10 | 58/53 mpg city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 50.7 cu ft
The 2022 Toyota Prius is another iconic hatchback that offers cavernous cargo capacity paired with incredible gas mileage. A lengthy list of standard features also sweetens the deal.
Driving the Prius isn’t the most exciting experience but it’s sufficient when paired with the excellent gas mileage. This hybrid offers a ton of miles between visits to the pump. Average fuel ratings for the 2022 Prius range between 58 and 51 mpg in the city and 53 to 47 mpg on the highway. Cargo figures max out at 50.7 cubic feet.
Standard technology includes a 7-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa. Pedestrian detection, lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control are all standard safety features.
5) 2022 Subaru Impreza
$18,795 | USN Score: 7.8/10 | 22/30 mpg city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 55.3 cu ft
Standard all-wheel drive, no-nonsense technology and a large cargo capacity make the 2022 Subaru Impreza an intriguing option in the hatchback segment.
The Impreza handles well, grips the road and rides over significant road imperfections. Inside, the Impreza can seat up to five passengers across two roomy rows. Cargo capacity is at a premium, maxing out at 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Standard tech includes a 6.5-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This system is incredibly straightforward and easy-to-use.
4) 2022 Toyota Corolla
$20,175 | USN Score: 8.0/10 | 28/36 mpg city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 23.3 cu ft
The 2022 Toyota Corolla hatchback offers an upscale feel inside and out. The Corolla offers good gas mileage, good ride quality and easy-to-use standard technology.
The 2022 Corolla was a finalist for our 2022 Best Compact Car for the Money award. Inside, the Corolla features clean lines and can seat up to five people. With that said, the back row in the hatchback is a little cramped. Standard technology includes a 7-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa.
The Corolla hatchback performs well on the road, with its suspension masking most bumps and its dimensions making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
3) 2021 Chevrolet Bolt
$36,500 | USN Score: 8.1/10 | 127/108 MPGe city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 56.6 cu ft
The 2021 Chevy Bolt is an all-electric hatchback that sports quick acceleration, one of the longest driving ranges for electric vehicles and a large cargo capacity.
The Bolt can travel up to 259 miles on a charge. Cargo figures rival small subcompact SUVs and interior seating can accommodate up to five passengers. Standard technology includes a 10.2-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Thanks to its electric powertrain, the Bolt delivers instantaneous acceleration in any driving situation. Handling is responsive and the suspension handles most road impurities with ease.
2) 2022 Mazda3
$20,800 | USN Score: 8.6/10 | 23/31 mpg city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: 20.1 cu ft
The 2022 Mazda Mazda3 offers a premium interior paired with lively driving dynamics and intuitive technology.
This hatchback rockets along the road and handles with spirit, allowing for one of the most engaging driving experiences in the class. Cabin materials are upscale and made of quality materials. Standard technology includes an 8.8-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Cargo figures max out at 20.1 cubic feet, which is on the small side for the class.
If you’re looking for a fun hatchback, the 2022 Mazda3 should be one of your top picks.
1) 2022 Honda Civic
$22,350 | USN Score: 8.7/10 | 31/40 mpg city/hwy | Max. Cargo Space: N/A
Following a complete redesign, the 2022 Honda Civic has climbed to the top of our this list and fulfills most of what you should want out of a hatchback. The new Civic features sporty handling, good gas mileage and lots of technology.
Handling is where the Civic really shines, zipping around corners with firm grip while maintaining a balanced ride. Maximum cargo figures for the hatchback are not available, but there is 24.5 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded up.
Standard technology includes a fingerprint-resistant 7-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
