A car chosen by a buyer because of its design isn’t just a regular runabout – it is also the owner’s automotive style statement.
The three hatchbacks we’ve gathered here are known for their strong designs, which make them stand out on every road and in any carpark.
Arguably the most recognisable vehicle in this story is the MINI One 5-Door. Good looks aside, the One will be keen to show it actually has the practicality to measure up to rivals like these.
Also eager to display its practical side is the updated A1 Sportback. The latest entry-level Audi is now more efficient, thanks to its new 1-litre 3-cylinder motor, which replaces the 1.4-litre 4-cylinder in the original model.
It may not look as flamboyant as its two competitors, but the Volkswagen Golf nonetheless boasts a handsome design. The Golf is also the largest contender here, but it will have to prove that it offers more than just roominess in order to convince buyers.
Which of these stylish hatchbacks, in our opinion, would be most appealing to the shopper with a $123k budget? Continue reading to find out.
The Audi A1’s drivetrain sounds sweet and is comparatively frugal, but its relaxed character probably won’t suit drivers in a hurry. Although the car’s interior is smaller than the others, the cabin’s quality is the best in this price range. The A1 would have earned a full “A1” score if the rear bench was more comfortable.
When it comes to hatchback space and comfort, the Volkswagen Golf is unmatched in the market segment named after it. This automobile’s overall design might look conventional compared to its two chic rivals, but it appeals to drivers who prefer understated style.
The car’s list price is also very appealing: At press time, it costs $11.2k and $12.5k less than the A1 and One respectively.
The MINI One is the priciest of this trio, but its design has the most panache and its drive is the most enjoyable. The fact that it offers decent practicality makes its style statement more complete.
Audi A1 Sportback 1.0 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-3, 12-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 999cc
Bore x stroke 74.5mm x 75.4mm
Compression 10.5:1
Max power 95bhp at 5000-5500rpm
Max torque 160Nm at 1500-3500rpm
Power to weight 87.2bhp per tonne
Gearbox 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
Driven wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 11.1 seconds
Top speed 186km/h
Consumption 22.7km/L (combined)
CO2 emission 102g/km
SUSPENSION
Front MacPherson struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear Torsion beam, coil springs
BRAKES
Front / Rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Bridgestone Turanza T001
Size 245/45 R16
SAFETY
Airbags 6
Traction aids ABS, ESC
MEASUREMENTS
Length 3973mm
Width 1746mm
Height 1422mm
Wheelbase 2469mm
Kerb weight 1090kg
Turning circle 10.6m
BUYING IT
Price incl. COE $122,000 (after $15k CEVS rebate)
Warranty 3 years/100,000km
+ Highest build quality, rortiest engine note, most efficient drivetrain
– Rather relaxed performance, squeezed backseat, smallest boot space
BEST IN EFFICIENCY
Volkswagen Golf 1.2 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-4, 16-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 1197cc
Bore x stroke 71mm x 75.6mm
Compression ratio 10.5:1
Max power 105bhp at 4500-5500rpm
Max torque 175Nm at 1400-4000rpm
Power to weight 90.9bhp per tonne
Gearbox 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
Driven wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 10.2 seconds
Top speed 192km/h
Consumption 20km/L (combined)
CO2 emission 115g/km
SUSPENSION
Front MacPherson struts, coil springs
Rear Multi-link, coil springs
BRAKES
Front / Rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Pirelli Cinturato P7
Size 205/55 R16
SAFETY
Airbags 7
Traction aids ABS, ESP
MEASUREMENTS
Length 4255mm
Width 1799mm
Height 1452mm
Wheelbase 2637mm
Kerb weight 1155kg
Turning circle 11.1m
BUYING IT
Price incl. COE $110,800 (after $10k CEVS rebate)
Warranty 3 years/100,000km
+ Roomiest interior, most refined ride, lowest asking price
– No steering wheel controls, least cold air-con, “safe” styling
BEST IN SPACIOUSNESS
MINI One 5-Door 1.2 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-3, 12-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 1198cc
Bore x stroke 78mm x 83.6mm
Compression ratio 10.2:1
Max power 102bhp at 4000rpm
Max torque 180Nm at 1400rpm
Power to weight 86.8bhp per tonne
Gearbox 6-speed automatic with manual select
Driven wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 10.5 seconds
Top speed 192km/h
Consumption 19.6km/L (combined)
CO2 emission 119g/km
SUSPENSION
Front MacPherson struts, coil springs
Rear Multi-link, coil springs
BRAKES
Front / Rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Pirelli Cinturato P1
Size 195/55 R16
SAFETY
Airbags 6
Traction aids ABS, DSC
MEASUREMENTS
Length 3982mm
Width 1727mm
Height 1425mm
Wheelbase 2567mm
Kerb weight 1175kg
Turning circle 11m
BUYING IT
Price incl. COE $123,300 (after $10k CEVS rebate)
Warranty 3 years/70,000km
+ Funkiest cockpit, most energetic performance, nicest infotainment
– Narrowest backseat, fewest gearbox ratios, relatively thirstier motor
BEST IN SPORTINESS
