The average car buyer is more likely to acquire a notchback instead of a hatchback. Most consumers think that since hatchbacks are smaller than sedans, they offer “less” car for the money. And since new car prices in Singapore are the highest in the world, it seems more sensible to get a saloon instead of a hatchback.
Most, if not all motoring writers, however, have the opposite opinion. Here are the four reasons why we think hatchbacks are cooler than sedans:
1) Hatchbacks offer more flexibility.
If you’ve got an active lifestyle, a hatchback is more suitable for you. With a larger rear opening and split-folding rear seats, a hatch will enable you to stow a bicycle (or two) in the car. Trying to put the same bicycle (or a bulky item for that matter) into the boot of a saloon would be trickier, if not impossible, since the internal height of a notchback’s boot is limited.
2) Hatchbacks are easier to park.
Hatchbacks normally have shorter rear overhangs compared to saloons, so they’re easier to manoeuvre into tighter spaces. With a sedan, you’ll need to be extra mindful of that extra sheet-metal.
3) Hatchbacks usually handle better than sedans.
Thanks to their shorter rear overhangs, a hatch will handle slightly better than a saloon. Without a proper boot, there’s also less weight for a hatch to carry into a corner.
4) Hatchbacks are just cooler.
Which car is cooler – a Volkswagen Golf or a Jetta? If you were a fuddy-duddy, you might opt for the latter. But if you’re young at heart, you’d go for the former.
