Top 5 Hatchbacks to Buy Used for Versatile Storage

Decades ago, station wagons were instantly recognizable by their long silhouette, spacious rear cargo area, and signature wood-paneled exterior. These early wagons paved the way for sport utility vehicles, but the rising popularity of SUVs hasn’t meant the demise of wagons and hatchbacks. Instead, any search for used cars for sale near Florence reveals a healthy selection of wagons and hatchbacks that offer versatile storage and feature-rich packaging. Here’s a closer look at the most popular hatchback models you won’t want to miss.

#1. Chevy Bolt EV: An Electric Hatch

The Bolt EV has been a staple in the Chevrolet lineup since late 2016 when the five-door hatchback debuted to widespread acclaim and became the second best-selling plug-in hybrid car in America. Earning numerous awards over the years, the Bolt EV continues to impress and offers broad appeal as a used model. For example, the Bolt EV has remained consistent over the last few years, with the hatch’s single-motor powertrain producing 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of instant torque on 2020 and newer models, as well as an EPA-estimated 259-mile range.

Beyond its output and range, the Bolt EV is also well-equipped and spacious, with its cabin impeccably designed to accommodate passengers and cargo comfortably. The modern cockpit is framed by digital displays, from the driver information center to the 10.2-inch center touchscreen. Drivers also have a range of connectivity and safety tools at their fingertips, from the hatch’s rear vision and surround vision cameras to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. As far as passenger and cargo room, the Bolt EV uses its hatchback design to its advantage and boasts a total cargo volume of over 56 cu.ft. behind the front row.

#2. Kia Soul: Loads of Personality

Florence drivers looking for a hatchback with a head-turning style will fall in love with the Kia Soul. Debuting in 2008 and officially entering production in 2010, the Soul is instantly recognizable by its boxy profile that lays the foundation for an incredibly spacious cabin that can handle all your needs. That spaciousness translates to over 62 cu.ft. behind the front row on third-generation models built since 2020.

The Soul’s impressive cargo capacity serves a practical purpose, but the hatchback is far more than sensible. It’s also engaging to drive, especially when shopping for models built between 2020 and 2022. Why? Kia expanded the Soul’s powertrain lineup to offer drivers more excitement behind the wheel, courtesy of a 1.6L turbocharged inline-four that produces 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The upgrade is significant, considering the standard 2.0L inline-four produces 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque.

In 2023, Kia streamlined the Soul’s powertrain lineup to the 2.0L inline-four. The engine makes enough power to ensure the Soul can adeptly handle itself in any situation. It’s also incredibly efficient, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 31 MPG combined on 2023 and 2024 models. Yet, if you’re looking for a little more excitement, there’s no question that a 2020, 2021, or 2022 Soul is worth considering.

#3. Mitsubishi Mirage: Super Efficient

The Mitsubishi Mirage is well-known for being one of the most affordable and fuel-efficient hatchbacks on the market, making it ideal for Florence commuters looking for a budget-friendly option. This five-door hatch debuted in 1978, was discontinued in 2003, and was revived in 2012. After returning to the lineup, the Mirage found its niche in the market, inspiring Mitsubishi to introduce more value in 2019. The mid-cycle refresh debuted the Mirage with an updated, modern style, additional driver assistance technologies, and Apple CarPlay.

Aside from enjoying more features in Mirage models from 2019 and newer, this subcompact hatchback is wildly efficient and surprisingly spacious. Mitsubishi puts a 1.2L inline-three under the Mirage’s hood, with 2020 and 2021 models offering a manual transmission that provides drivers with a physical connection to the hatch’s performance. The Mirage with the continuously variable transmission is undeniably more popular and efficient, with the hatch averaging an EPA-estimated 39 MPG combined.

As far as spaciousness, the Mirage exceeds expectations when it’s time to haul cargo. The cabin volume measures 103 cu.ft., with 47 cu.ft. of cargo space behind the front row and 17.1 cu.ft. with the second row upright. Passenger volume is also plentiful at 86.2 cu.ft., which translates to 39 inches of headroom and 41.7 inches of legroom in the front row. Backseat passengers have 37.2 inches of headroom and 34.2 inches of legroom, which is roomy for a subcompact hatch.

#4. Subaru Impreza: The AWD Hatch

Subaru is synonymous with reliability and all-season confidence. Hatchbacks like the Impreza embody those characteristics and offer broad appeal to Florence drivers who want an all-wheel-drive hatchback with a versatile cabin. The Impreza has answered that need since the early 1990s when Subaru introduced the nameplate as a sedan before expanding its appeal with the hatchback in 2008. Since then, the Impreza has aged gracefully, evolving as a compact hatch with modern styling, updated technologies, and a thoughtfully designed interior.

You’ll see these characteristics as you shop for a pre-owned Impreza, especially in 2020 and newer models. Subaru introduced the sixth-generation Impreza in 2024, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the latest features without paying the new car price. For example, models like the 2023 Impreza are powered by Subaru’s 2.0L Boxer engine that produces 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque for all-season confidence and an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 32 MPG combined.

The Impreza’s engine makes the hatchback engaging and responsive, but it’s also practical and tech-centric. Depending on the trim, you’ll find a 6.5-inch or 8-inch center touchscreen with smartphone integration, navigational tools, and other in-vehicle apps. Hauling passengers and cargo is also straightforward, thanks to a total cargo volume of 55.3 cu.ft. There’s still plenty of room with passengers in the backseat, with the Impreza offering 12.3 cu.ft. for cargo like groceries, backpacks, and other small gear.

#5. Mazda3: Sporty Performance

Mazda’s rising popularity in the American landscape is largely due to models like the Mazda3. Available as a sedan and hatchback, the Mazda3 showcases the automaker’s keen attention to detail. It’s sophisticated, sporty, engaging to drive, and packed with value. Those characteristics are even more appealing on the used lot, especially in fourth-generation models built since 2019.

As a compact hatchback, the Mazda3 has a smaller footprint, but Mazda packs a lot of power under its hood to ensure it reflects the automaker’s penchant for performance. For example, the 2021 and 2022 Mazda3 offer an engine lineup that includes a 2.5L inline-four and its turbocharged sibling. The former produces 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, leaving the turbocharged version to shine as it delivers 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque for pure excitement behind the wheel.

This excitement doesn’t come at the cost of practicality, with the Mazda3 available with all-wheel drive and offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo. There is 13.2 cu.ft. of cargo space behind the second row, with that volume greatly expanding with the rear seat folded. This makes the Mazda3 one of the most spacious in the segment—a significant perk that perfectly complements its engaging performance.

Choosing the Right Hatch

How will you know when you’ve found the right fit? Shopping for a used hatchback or station wagon is exciting, with so many options boasting modern styling, spacious cabins, and advanced technologies. Because of this, choosing the right hatch starts by understanding your needs and priorities behind the wheel. Do you value the spirited driving demeanor that a hatch like the Mazda3 offers, or are you drawn to the all-season confidence that Subaru delivers with the Impreza?

Fortunately, we can help you answer those questions and choose the perfect hatch to complement your life in Florence with our personalized approach and impressive selection of quality models.