Skip to main content

Hatchbacks are some of the most practical and fun-to-drive vehicles in the market. With a hatchback, you could fit a huge load of cargo and five people while carving through a few canyon switchbacks. Luckily, there are plenty of sporty hatchbacks in the market for 2023. Check out these five great examples.

1. 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback

A blue Honda Civic hatchback driving by trees
2023 Honda Civic Hatchback | Honda

We tested out the 2022 Honda Civic Sport Touring model last year and were thoroughly impressed with it. Not much has changed for the 2023 model year, so we’re sure the Civic Hatchback has the same practicality and excitement as the one we tested. In that case, you can expect great fuel efficiency, a surprising amount of comfort, and excellent build quality when it comes to the 2023 Civic.

2. 2023 Mazda3

2023 Mazda3
2023 Mazda3 sedan and hatchback | Mazda

The 2023 Mazda3 can fit up to five passengers in addition to providing plenty of driving fun. However, it’s not very good when it comes to the passenger room. U.S. News notes that the rear seat area is tight, and its cargo room is “underwhelming.” But there’s no denying that the Mazda3 is fun to drive. We tested the Mazda3 Turbo and were blown away by its large amount of torque and seek driving dynamics.

3. 2023 Volkswagen GTI

A red Volkswagen GTI drives in the desert
2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI | Volkswagen

The 2023 Volkswagen GTI is a fun-to-drive, four-door hatchback that can carve corners and serve as a daily driver. It also has many tech features, including an available 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto and a 10.25-inch instrument panel. If you want a fun and tech-savvy hatchback, the GTI is an excellent choice.

4. 2022 Hyundai Veloster N

A light blue with red trimming 2022 Hyundai Veloster N performance hatchback model driving down a desert highway
2022 Hyundai Veloster N | Hyundai Motor America

The 2022 Hyundai Veloster N provides thrilling driving dynamics in a powerful and practical package. Under its hood is a potent turbocharged 2.0-liter, which can be mated to either a slick-shifting automatic or manual transmission. Although it’s a front-wheel-drive car, the Veloster N can tear up a racetrack with sports cars from a class above.

5. 2023 Mini Cooper

A MINI Cooper John Cooper Works hot hatchback shows off its livery and hatchback styling.
MINI Cooper | MINI USA

The MINI Cooper has been around for decades and has always been one of the most hatchbacks in the market. For 2023, the Mini Cooper comes equipped with a variety of zippy engine that matches well with its lively handling. One thing to note, though, is the MINI Cooper’s diminutive interior space and harsh ride comfort undermine its driving thrills.

Fun-to-drive hatchbacks for 2023

Driving enthusiasts looking for a sporty ride with enough practicality to cater to families and the daily grind should check out these five fine examples. Whether you’re looking to spend less than $30,000 on a hatchback like the Civic or up to over $40,000 for one like the MINI Cooper, there is a fun hatchback on the market for you.