For most drivers, practicality and reliability are the most important attributes to look at before choosing a car, and for British drivers, hatchbacks are some of the most popular models on our roads.
It’s always nice to know which hatchbacks impress in terms of dependability, and here we have a list of the most trustworthy models in the segment, according to Warranty Direct.
1. Volkswagen Polo
Volkswagen’s supermini was found to have the least time off the road due to faults, and came with relatively low repair costs as well – making this a clear winner in the reliability standings. Starting from £14,235, the Polo comes with a selection of durable engines and well-engineered transmissions, as well as a solidly-built interior.
2. Ford Fiesta
The nation’s favourite model not only drives brilliantly, it can stand up to the rigour of Britain’s roads to ensure it can keep going without a hitch. The Fiesta has frequently been the top of the UK sales charts, and with simple fault repairs there doesn’t seem to be any chance that this will change anytime soon.
3. Ford Focus
The outgoing version of the Focus has proven to be one of the country’s favourite models, normally ranking comfortably inside the top 10 for sales. But that reputation has been built on a well-driving machine and one that can stand the test of time, coming with cheap repair costs and being built with quality components. Ford will hope this continues into the next model.
4. Volkswagen Golf
The Volkswagen Golf has always been a dependable model for many a driver in the moniker’s 40-year history, and the large hatchback continues to be reliable into its seventh generation. Volkswagen Group continues to make well-engineered power units and components, and even the ongoing emissions scandal can’t seem to stop the German brand’s success.
5. Vauxhall Corsa
The French-owned British manufacturer hasn’t always been known for producing dependable cars, but the Corsa supermini has been just that – and when it does break down, many of the faults are very simple to fix. Starting from £11,250, the Corsa comes with a decent interior and well-balanced powertrains.
6. Mini Hatch
Renowned for its go-kart-like driving dynamics, the retro Mini Hatch has always been a popular choice and, with its BMW backing, Mini has been able to build models that can last. Although units can be bit bare in terms of equipment, the interior is always well-finished and the turbocharged engines under the bonnet also last well.
7. Mercedes A-Class
The A-Class is equipped with the latest active safety and driver assistance systems, while performing well in terms of reliability in many aspects. The A-Class is being replaced by a new version this year and is set to score considerably well as well as other elements on the car.
8. BMW 1 Series
While the 1 Series is known as one of the best hatchbacks there is to drive, it's great to know it ranks in the official top 10 for reliability. The BMW hatchback performs well in terms of interior build quality and long-lasting features.
9. Vauxhall Astra
The Astra is popular with British drivers due to its practical layout and normally dependable powertrain setup. The interior quality may not be as good as other models on this list, but it works well on the most part for drivers to consider the £17,000+ hatchback.
10. Audi A3
Surprisingly, the A3 has suffered from multiple engine issues that have affected the model’s standing. As well as extended time with mechanics, the A3 can also experience other issues that can curtail the appeal of the premium hatchback.
