For those who want to own compact cars which exude class, the hatchback is a perfect choice. It does not have the bold, brute image associated with SUVs and neither does it have the quiet luxe of a sedan, but it comes with its own set of advantages. The hatchback is a perfect car for individuals or small families since it has enough space to suffice for road trips, and is small enough to fit into the tiny space left at the mall parking lot.

What’s more, you don’t just spend less on the vehicle as an investment, you also have less operational costs with the fuel efficiency it brings. If you are looking at buying a hatchback in 2021, the following are the top hatchbacks:

1. Hyundai Veloster

With asymmetric side doors being the main attraction, it catches the eye with its single long door on the driver’s side and two doors on the opposite side. There is the added attraction of a 201-hp turbo engine, 18-inch performance tires, and B&M short shifter. The handling is improved with multilink rear suspension and automatic emergency braking. It not just looks funky but is startlingly efficient with its pickup and sound system. All of this for one of the top hatchbacks under $20,000, which does not create a dent in your pocket.

2. Nissan Leaf

If you are looking for something premium and refined which makes you feel like you are driving an upscale car, the Nissan Leaf is a perfect choice as a top hatchback. With a 40 kWh battery and 236 lb-ft of torque at zero rpm, it is perfectly feasible for long trips of up to 250 miles a day and gives up to 99 miles per gallon.

3. Toyota Corolla Hatchback

If you are looking for a good, fun vehicle that screams dynamic, this top hatchback is for you. Priced at less than $20,000, it has a six-speed manual transmission and a wide front that catches the eye. Often equated with a junior Lexus and Scion, this is a trim car and is fun to drive. Another feature it sports is that it can be started with the Apple watch, which just adds to its cool quotient.

4. Kia Soul

Though it does not look like one with the lack of the all-wheel drive, the Soul is indeed a top hatchback and a charismatic one at that. Having sold over 300,000 units in the last year, the Soul is filling the void created by Nissan Cube and Scion xB. The stereo and the multicolored speaker lights allow you to take the party anywhere. There are two versions 130-hp and 201-hp, which have six-speed and seven-speed transmissions. What’s more, there is even an electric version for those who want a quiet, smooth ride.

5. Volkswagen GTI

You cannot talk of top hatchbacks and not mention Volkswagen. The GTI has increased engine output by 10-hp, comfortable interiors, brisk acceleration, and athletic handling. The seats are roomy and the infotainment system is par excellence. The cost is about the same as other sporty vehicles such as Ford Focus and Honda Civic.