Hatchback Manual Reviews

This Focus, if you get the better rear suspension, is the sweetest drive in the mainstream hatch class

Skoda’s kept all of what we loved about the old Superb (size, space, value) and added updated interior tech and a genuinely stylish body. Verging on genius

Land Rover plays with a winning formula just enough. The Evoque remains a stylish, accomplished choice

Not as much fun as a Focus Estate, but more comfortable, practical and very well thought out. Looks the part, too.

Skoda might just have turned things on its head. You’d now recommend an Octavia over a VW Golf or Seat Leon

Not as cheap as you’d expect, but still one of the best hot hatches on sale

Less inviting to own than a Mercedes C-coupe, but scores points with excellent driving dynamics, a strong range, well laid-out cabin and class-best infotainment.

A job well done. The Golf is better, but not by much.

An outstandingly sorted car, but something tells us you’ve already made your mind up about liking the 4 Series or not

Fussy design inside and out doesn’t spoil a really rather good family hatchback

The Evoque is pretty much all we hoped it’d be, a crossover to fall for.

A thoroughly capable family car that handles far better than it really needs to

Bigger and better than ever, the Superb offers a whole lot of car for the cash.

Spain’s strongest attempt to out-Golf the Golf yet. A stylish, well-equipped and cheaper version of its German cousin

Beautifully built and beautiful to look at. But the A4 is 98 per cent as good, cheaper and less pretentious.

A fantastic everyday proposition, a hot hatch that's easy to live with. Mostly for good

Just what the market ordered. Stylish crossover for people who don't need family space. But don't dig too deep beyond that

Not the perfect solution to all your motoring needs, but a great first effort at a useable everyday hybrid.

Peugeot's hot hatch renaissance continues. The 308 GTI has a joyously wild streak

Biggest Mini yet is the least fun to drive. But new Countryman has practicality on its side.

Jaguar said its SUVs made new estate cars pointless. It’s built one anyway, and it’s mostly a success.

A fun car with a practical side, but no longer one of the sharpest hot hatches on sale