The original model (2006 - 2013), which combined the acquisition and running costs
of a compact hatchback with the looks of an SUV, evolved into a bigger crossover with the looks to match.
Beginning with the petrol base trim, at Rs 5.59 lakhs, you can opt for the top - spec
trims of the compact hatchbacks like Wagon R, the Celerio and the Tiago.
The MINI Hardtop 4 Door is a spirited, little firecracker that comes in two model trims: Cooper and Cooper S. Auto enthusiasts can't stop raving about the style points and nimble
handling of this compact hatchback.
The
class of compact hatchbacks on the market today, exemplified by this battle between the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage vs. 2018 Chevy Sonic are the best it has ever been.
While you're waiting, and assuming you can't stretch to the luxurious and expensive Tesla Model X, electric rivals for the Kia Soul EV include a
range of compact hatchback models such as the BMW i3, Renault Zoe, Nissan Leaf, VW e-Golf or VW e-up!
Especially considering the
number of compact hatchbacks that are on sale has been growing and that Chevrolet sells a Cruze hatchback in Europe.
Now in its seventh generation (in production since 2012 in Europe), the Volkswagen Golf continues to be the
leader of the compact hatchback segment in Europe, where it is sold with a wide choice of engines, ranging from 1.0 - liter three - cylinder units to 2.0 - liter four - bangers.
But the Golf — which is admittedly at the lavish
end of the compact hatchback market — comes with a sophistication and refinement along the lines of a premium marque.
The latest Ford Fiesta and SEAT Ibiza have been around since the middle of last year, and now it's the turn of a new Volkswagen Polo to hit UK showrooms, where the
battle of the compact hatchbacks will be fought.
Alongside the Giulia Veloce, Alfa will also be showcasing facelifted
versions of its compact hatchbacks, the Mito and Giulietta, both of which have been restyled to highlight their sporting nature and handling poise and both of which will also be getting Veloce versions.
Blemishes in the road surface are handled with the comfort and ease of a crossover SUV, yet body roll is more akin to
that of a compact hatchback than crossover SUV; and around highway flyovers and even tighter turns, the Soul remains planted and well supported — a confidence inspiring trait in such a lofty vehicle.
Able to swallow just 430 liters, it's about the same size as
that of a compact hatchback and quite a bit down on the Range Rover's 550 liters - it's even smaller than that of the Flying Spur saloon which comes in at 475 liters.
The convertible's trunk is awkwardly shaped and very shallow, whereas the coupé's is far more usably shaped featuring a maximum load volume comparable to
that of a compact hatchback.