While the hatchback has long been associated with cheap small cars in a country accustomed to a proper sedan with a real trunk, the rise of the SUV has opened peoples' minds and eyes to the functionality offered by a big rear door. For the same reason, more and more people are buying into the virtues of wagons, which offer more versatility than their sedan counterparts with virtually no drop-off in performance. Here, the Kelley Blue Book editors highlight some of the best hatchbacks and wagons on the road.
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Hatchbacks
Wagons
Chevrolet Aveo5
If you only have about $10-12K to spend on a new car, the Aveo5 is worthy of your attention. It's inexpensive but not stripped, and its interior is quite roomy.
BMW 328xi
By adding wagon versatility to all the goodness that is the 3 Series sedan with virtually no performance loss, some would say this is the best 3 Series around.
Honda Fit
Affordable at both the dealer and the gas pump, Fit's other charms include nimble handling and uncanny cargo versatility.
Dodge Magnum
With available 340- and 425-horsepower V8 engines, the fully functional wagon that thinks it's a muscle car is absolutely right.
Scion tC
Good power, a long list of equipment and low base price are exactly what young consumers are looking for in a fuel-efficient sports car.
Subaru Outback
If you need all-weather and off-road capability but shudder at the thought of driving a big, fuel-inefficient SUV, the all-wheel-drive Outback is the answer.
Toyota Yaris
With styling that's bubbly without being wimpy, the attractively priced Yaris changes the face of basic transportation.
Volvo V70
The V70's sculpted hood, angular rear end and aggressive wheel and tire packages make it one of the boldest wagons out there. It's fun to drive and safe, too.
Volkswagen GTI
A powerful, flexible engine combined with responsive handling and front-wheel-drive predictability make the GTI a joy on any road.