There's a good reason why you're likely to come across the word 'hatchback' when looking for a new car.Hatchbacks are one of Britain's most popular and best-selling cars, and with their practical boots, efficient engines and variety of designs, it's easy to understand why. But with so many great hatchbacks on the market, how do you know which one is best for you?We've put together the complete buyers guide for small hatchbacks, including the best in what each manufacturer has to offer. What is a hatchback?What differentiates hatchbacks from the competition is namely the boot space, which is part of the car's cabin - whereas saloon cars, for example, have a separate boot compartment dividing it from the rest of the car, hatchback boots sit within the back of the car itself and incorporates the rear window with a hinge at the top. This gives a hatchback an entire extra door at the rear of the vehicle - this is why you'll see cars described as three or five-door vehicles (although it isn't very likely that you would use the boot as a door!).You could argue that, because of the boot lid design, an estate car or an SUV could be classed as a hatchback, however it's generally accepted that the term hatchback not only encompasses the boot, but also describes the car category.Want to learn more about Hatchback basics and whether a hatch would be right for you? Read our What is a Hatchback blog which answers all the common questions you might have. What are the different types of hatchbacks?Whether you're looking for an economical run-around to get you from A-B, or you're after something with a little more 'oomph' under the hood, there's a hatchback to suit every need and every budget.Hatchbacks also come in three or five-door formation, with three-door hatchbacks providing two front end doors with foldable front seats for rear access and a spacious boot, and five-door benefitting from the addition of two rear doors and a little more internal space. Small hatchback models for each manufacturerEvery car manufacturer has its own take on the hatchback, with a huge number of shapes, sizes, styles and engines to choose from. We've rounded up our top picks for the best small hatchback models you can get from each manufacturer. Small Mercedes hatchbackThe Mercedes A-Class - The latest generation of the Mercedes hatchback offering, the Mercedes A-Class is a compact masterpiece, with a stunning interior design that houses the tech savvy infotainment system. The exterior design is stylish, sleek and houses a highly efficient engine. Small Volvo hatchbackThe Volvo V40 - The Volvo V40 has become a family-friendly staple in the Volvo line up. As the brand's most affordable car, the V40 is known for its sturdy build and impressive safety kit. It's economical to run but has enough power to feel at home on any road. Small Hyundai hatchbackThe Hyundai i30 - Recently updated for 2020/21, the Hyundai i30 is known as the backbone of Hyundai's range. A comfortable and very practical model, with great economy and brand-new safety tech and infotainment centre that stands confidently amongst other tech-savvy competitors. Small Audi hatchbackAudi A3 Sportback - If you're looking for a family-sized hatchback with a quality interior and plenty of space, look no further than the Audi A3. The stylish exterior opens up to a classy interior, complete with the latest technology and plenty of wiggle room. Small Kia hatchbackKia Rio - An excellent all-rounder, the Kia Rio offers bags of practicality within its snug frame. With large amounts of boot space and a handy seven-year warranty, the Rio is a great choice for those looking for an economical drive. Small Mazda hatchbackMazda 3 - Winner of the Best Small Hatchback at the 2020 UK Car of the Year Awards, the Mazda 3 is known for its outstanding drive as well as modern, eye-catching design and impressive equipment offering. Practical, comfortable and well worthy of its winners' status. Small hatchbacks for familiesVolkswagen Golf - A staple on UK roads for many years, this Volkswagen offers a brilliantly safe and sturdy build, with bags of internal space and a powerful engine. Ford Focus - Another firm favourite with drivers, the Focus offers superb handling with a smart design and extremely comfortable interior for all the family.Skoda Octavia - For boot space, you'd be hard pushed to find a hatchback that rivals the Octavia. A leader in practicality and affordability, the Octavia is a great all-round family friendly car. Best small hatchback hybridsEnjoy the best of both economy and sustainability with a hatchback hybrid:Toyota CorollaRenault Clio E-TechHonda Jazz Best small hatchback 4x4sSmall doesn't have to mean less mighty. With many hatchbacks offering 4x4 capabilities to keep you safe, whatever the conditions, here are our top picks:Audi A1 QuattroBMW 1 Series XDriveSuzuki Swift Best 4 door small hatchbacksEnjoy ease of accessibility with the top 4-door hatchbacks:Seat LeonMazda 3Honda Fit Safest small hatchbacksSafety is paramount on the road, particularly if you have a family to care for. But increased safety doesn't have to mean you lose out on style. Here are some great choices for the safest drives:Toyota YarisToyota CorollaVolkswagen Polo Best value/affordable small hatchbacksMake your hard-earned cash stretch further with an affordable small hatchback:Renault sport MeganePeugeot 308 GTiSuzuki SwiftCheck out Carbase's wide range of three and five-door hatchbacks. Find your perfect used hatchback todayIf you are looking to find your next used hatchback and need more help and advice, contact Carbase today. Our expert team of friendly staff are on hand and more than happy to help you find your perfect hatchback today. Carbase ReviewsCarbase is proud to be Rated Excellent by our customers, with reviews showcasing our dedication to quality vehicles and outstanding service. From helping you find the perfect family SUV to delivering a seamless buying experience, our customers trust us for all their motoring needs. Explore our Carbase reviews to see why we’re the South West’s trusted car supermarket. More advice on Hatchbacks Best Used HatchbacksHatchback cars provide an all-round excellent option for those looking for style, space, safety and economy ...The Ultimate Hot Hatch GuideYou may or may not be familiar with the term 'hot hatchback'. If you are, do you know what really makes ...Hatchbacks - Your Questions AnsweredWith an ever-growing car market, choosing the right car for you can be hard! Cars now come in every shape ...