8 Best hatchbacks in the Philippines

We all have come to love and know hatchbacks for their perfect size and versatility as beginner cars and family vehicles once the kids get involved in trips. Hatchbacks provide the flexibility of most crossovers and SUVs, but without the necessary unwieldiness and fuel economy of bigger vehicles. It’s got room for five, the ability to drop the second row to create a boatload of cargo space, perform with punchy engines and transmission combinations, and earn respectable fuel numbers at the pump. Simply put, these five door vehicles fit the needs of those looking for a car that can do it all, and will always occupy a space in anyone’s garage.

In this list, we’ll be going over some great hatchback choices in the Philippines. The best part is that almost all manufacturers have a hatchback in their family, and the number of trims and price points are varied enough to meet anyone’s budget. There’s a lot to go over on this list, and we’ve narrowed down the pickings based on the ones we’ve driven so far and the latest models to enter the market to give you choices that you can’t go wrong with. We have selected one model from each brand that represents the best that they can offer on the consumer level. Check out our list below, and if you’re in the market for a hatchback, take one of the cars on the list for a test drive or request a quote.

One of the most affordable Toyota vehicles available on the market today also happens to be one of our picks. The Toyota Wigo presents itself as a good value-for-money car that also has low running costs, standard safety equipment, and a modern design with modern features. While you cannot split the folding seats of the second row, it does retract to reveal impressive cargo space—perfect for a long getaway for two plus a lot of gear and luggage.

Another hot selling hatchback on the list is the Mitsubishi Mirage. The Mirage brings to the table handsome styling and is well-appointed in terms of features. It ticks most of the right boxes for those looking to get a practical family car. To add to this it also has a 2-DIN infotainment system that has AUX-in, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity as standard. It also has ABS with EBD along with dual front airbags for the entire model range. As far as fuel economy is concerned, the Mitsubishi Mirage delivers well on this front as well thanks to its frugal 1.2-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine. 

The Mazda3 Fastback presents itself as one of the more distinctive entries on the list thanks to its sultry KODO design language. The Sportback version of the vehicle brings to the table sporting looks as well as technologies that pair well with its price. The Japanese vehicle has an upscale feel and the cabin reflects that—soft-touch materials and premium trim included. While it does come with an 8.8-inch infotainment system, that utilizes a rotary knob as its main method of control. Mazda has stated that, while it may take some time to get used to, it is a safer way to operate the infotainment system as the driver can keep their eyes on the road.

In terms of power, the Mazada3 Sportback can be had with r a 2.0-liter SkyActiv gasoline engine or one with a mild-hybrid system that delivers a good amount of power and fuel efficiency at the same time. ABS with EBD, Dynamic stability control, a G-vectoring system, parking systems, and a 360-degree camera for its top-of-the-line model, help make the vehicle safer and easier to drive as well. All in all, this makes the Mazda3 Sportback one of the more tech-packed vehicles on this list.

The Mazda2 Hatchback has been in the market for quite some time but it's still one of the best-handling and the best-felling models to drive in the city or spiritedly through the twisty roads of the Philippines. Equipped with a peppy SkyActiv G 1.5-liter engine, it makes decent power but a good smack of torque compared to its competitors. The gap widens thanks to the six-speed automatic transmission. Mazda doesn't like CVTs so we're thankful that we still get hard gears in this model. 

MG's first foray into EVs included two models, a crossover and a hatchback, and both cars had prices that couldn't be ignored. The MG4 in particular is a car that shouldn't be ignored. The EV for everyone, essentially, it's priced well and has top-of-the-line range and respectable power and torque. It's a fun drive with the MG4 and has hatchback practicality. 

A unique entry on the list is the Nissan LEAF. It offers a different driving experience compared to the other hatchbacks on the list and has an electric motor and battery pack instead of a conventional internal combustion engine. That being said, there is no displacement for electric motors, however, the Nissan LEAF does push out 148hp and 320 Nm of torque. It is also equipped with Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility safety suit making the electrified hatchback not only safer but easier to drive as well. 

If you want a small hatchback, you should consider a few things: As many practical amenities and features as possible, a frugal engine, with enough power to get up to speed without waiting a day. The Brio does just that with its 1.2-liter gasoline engine mated to a CVT. Efficient performance with actually usable performance. Don't expect the world of it, however, because it only has 89 hp. Still, it's a great everyday car with just enough modern features to keep you going all day. 

Another great hatchback option to consider is the Suzuki Swift. It brings with it a sporty look along with a great number of features for its price. The Japanese hatchback can be had with either a seven- or eight-inch infotainment system depending on the variant, but whichever you choose it will come with standard features such as AUX-In, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity. The touchscreen infotainment system is also crisp and displays the infotainment you need when you need it. The Swift, like many other vehicles on this list, also returns great fuel efficiency numbers thanks to its 1.2-liter gasoline engine.