Before there were crossovers, there were hatchbacks. Now that crossovers have proved to be America's preferred vehicle, its shorter predecessor is making a comeback. A new generation of exciting five-doors follows a simple formula: Take an athletic commuter car, pack in a bigger cargo area, and toss in lots of stuff. And, it's a segment that roundly offers a manual transmission for driving enthusiasts.
New models from Honda, Chevrolet, Subaru, Toyota and some old favorites help rejuvenate a segment that used to be for the young and penniless.
"Hatch buyers are better educated, make more money and are used to products with more oomph," said Steve Majoros, marketing director for Chevrolet cars and crossovers. "They are also more urban than rural and are a bit older because of income. Hatchbacks add a dimension of personality and design _ factors people are demanding in cars today."
According to Majoros, hatchbacks represent about 10 percent of model sales. Exclusivity, bolstered by some automakers offering hatchbacks only in certain regions, created its own demand.
"For years, Civic owners and fans have seen the sporty Civic Hatchback in Europe as something of a forbidden fruit," said Jessica Pawl, spokesperson for Honda. "We've found the hatch buyer is looking for something a little more individualistic, aimed toward their active lifestyle."
Millennials and Gen-Xers, raised on SUVs and crossovers, look to hatchbacks as efficient transportation that can slip through traffic during the daily commute, yet carry bicycles, surfboards or camping gear on weekends.
Hatchback compacts are typically shorter and slightly heavier than their sedan counterparts, and cost about $500 more.
