Hatchbacks are a popular choice for car buyers who want a versatile vehicle that is easy to maneuver and offers plenty of cargo space. Hatchbacks are a great choice for city driving – they’re small, fuel-efficient, and offer plenty of cargo space. Plus, they give driving enthusiasts a fun and sporty experience on the road.
There are now several several fantastic all-wheel-drive (AWD) hatchbacks on the market, which makes for an exciting driving experience. Despite having access to all-wheel drive, these hatchback cars still have many qualities we expect to see in the segment.
If you’re in the market for an all-wheel-drive (AWD) hatchback, you’re in luck. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the top 12 best AWD hatchbacks of 2024. We’ve analyzed each vehicle’s reliability, resale value, and safety to bring you the best options on the market.
12. Civic Type R
The 2024 Honda Civic Type R is a high-performance hatchback that is popular among enthusiasts. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 315 horsepower (324 kW) at 6500 RPM and 310 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque at 2600 RPM.
The Civic Type R also features a 4-mode drive system (comfort/sport/individual/+R), dual-axis MacPherson strut front suspension, an adaptive damper system, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The exterior of the car is made to be as efficient as possible.
The Civic Type R has specially made high-bolstered sport seats with red or black suede-effect fabric and double red stitching on the inside. It also has a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 12-speaker Bose luxury sound system that works with Apple CarPlay wirelessly.
11. Mazda 3
The 2024 Mazda 3 Hatchback is a stylish and comfortable car with great driving performance. It comes with a powerful 2.5-litre turbo engine that gives you up to 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 320 lb-ft (434 Nm) of torque. The car’s handling is responsive, providing an enjoyable driving experience.
The Mazda 3 has a refined interior, and outside, its sculpted design leaves a lasting impression. The Mazda 3 Hatchback also features the i-Activ AWD system, which optimizes performance by directing torque to the wheels with the best grip, enhancing the connection and comfort for the driver.
10. Toyota Prius
the 2024 Toyota Prius is well-known for its exceptional fuel efficiency, making it a top choice for those who prioritize eco-friendliness. The base Prius comes with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, giving a combined 121 horsepower (90 kW).
The standout feature of the Prius is its impressive fuel efficiency, offering 52-57 MPG (22-24 km/l) in the city and 52-56 MPG (22-24 km/l) approx on the highway. The Prius is designed for a comfortable and efficient driving experience, making it an ideal option for environmentally conscious drivers.
9. Toyota GR Corolla
Toyota GR Corolla is a new sporty hatchback that stands out with its fast acceleration, responsive handling, and a pretty comfy ride. It runs on a turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine, giving you 300 horsepower (224 kW) at 6500 RPM and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque between 3000 and 5500 RPM.
It comes with a six-speed intelligent manual transmission and all-wheel drive. The GR Corolla has a special GR circuit-tuned suspension, front and rear Torsen mechanical limited-slip differentials, a lightweight carbon fiber roof and hood, and an AWD system that can adjust the power split depending on the driving conditions.
8. Kia Rio
The 2024 Kia Rio is a good choice if you’re looking for value. It’s available as a sedan or hatchback. The Kia Rio runs on a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, giving you 120 horsepower (89 kW) at 6300 RPM and 112 lb-ft (152 Nm) of torque at 4500 RPM.
It comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. The Rio offers a comfortable ride and comes with features like a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera. The outside looks modern, with a stylish tiger-nose grille and LED headlights.
7. Volkswagen GTI
The 2024 Volkswagen GTI is a sporty and practical hatchback known for its lively performance and handling. It runs on a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, providing 245 horsepower (183 kW) at 4500 RPM and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque at 1600 RPM.
You can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and it’s a front-wheel-drive car. The GTI includes a sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, and a limited-slip differential for enhanced performance. Its exterior is designed to be sleek and sporty, featuring a distinctive red grille stripe and optional LED headlights.
6. Peugeot 208
the 2024 Peugeot 208 is a hatchback that offers a great blend of style, technology, and efficiency. It comes with various engine options, including a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine with up to 110 horsepower (82 kW) and a 1.5-litre diesel engine with up to 100 horsepower (75 kW).
The base model of the Peugeot 208 boasts impressive fuel efficiency, offering up to 73.6 MPG (31 km/l). The car is equipped with advanced safety features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Its exterior is designed to be sleek and modern, featuring a distinctive front grille and available LED headlights.
5. MG 4
The MG 4 has an electric version that’s great for the environment. It has a 52.5 kWh battery and an electric motor giving 184 horsepower (137 kW) and 206 lb-ft (280 Nm) of torque. This electric variant can go up to 280 miles (450 km) on a single charge and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (96.56 km/h) in about 7.9 seconds.
It provides a smooth and quiet ride, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers who want both performance and range. Moreover, the MG 4’s electric variant features advanced regenerative braking technology, enhancing energy efficiency and extending its overall driving range.
4. Dacia Sandero
The 2024 Dacia Sandero is known for being affordable and practical. It comes with various engine options, including a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine with 65 horsepower (48 kW) and 70 lb-ft (95 Nm) of torque. The base model offers impressive fuel efficiency, reaching up to 53 mpg (4.438 L/100km).
The Sandero includes modern features like LED daytime running lights, electric windows, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Its exterior is designed to be sleek and modern, featuring a distinctive front grille and optional LED headlights. Overall, the Dacia Sandero provides a practical and efficient driving experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and budget-friendly hatchback.
3. Hyundai i10
The 2024 Hyundai i10 is a small and practical hatchback designed for city life. It comes with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, providing 67 horsepower (50 kW) and 96 Nm (71 lb-ft) of torque. This car is great for urban commuting, offering a comfortable and fuel-efficient ride. The i10 includes modern features like a touchscreen infotainment system and advanced safety technologies to enhance your driving experience.
The Ford Focus is a versatile hatchback with different trims and engine choices. In 2024, it offers a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine with around 123 horsepower (92 kW) and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque. For those seeking more power, there’s a high-performance RS variant with a 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 350 horsepower (261 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) of torque.
2. Mercedes-AMG A 45 S
The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S is a high-performance hot hatchback with both power and luxury. Its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine produces an impressive 421 horsepower (314 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. This car offers a thrilling driving experience with quick acceleration and responsive handling.
The A 45 S is equipped with luxury features, including a high-quality interior, advanced infotainment system, and premium sound system, making it a top choice for enthusiasts who want a high-performance hatchback with a touch of luxury.
Subaru Impreza
The 2024 Subaru Impreza is a reliable and versatile hatchback, boasting all-wheel-drive capability and a spacious interior. Powered by a 2.0-liter flat-four engine delivering 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, it offers capable performance for various driving conditions.
With the option of a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the Impreza provides flexibility to suit different driving preferences. Its well-built interior provides ample space for passengers, complemented by standard infotainment features like a touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The Bottom Line
The year 2024 brings an exciting array of all-wheel-drive hatchbacks that cater to diverse preferences, from performance enthusiasts to eco-conscious drivers. These versatile vehicles combine the practicality of hatchbacks with the added benefit of all-wheel drive, enhancing their manoeuvrability and ensuring a confident driving experience in various conditions.
From the spirited driving experience of the Honda Civic Type R to the eco-friendly Toyota Prius and the affordable options like the Kia Rio and Dacia Sandero, there’s a hatchback for every driver.
Enthusiasts can indulge in the sporty capabilities of the Toyota GR Corolla, Volkswagen GTI, and the luxurious Mercedes-AMG A 45 S. The emergence of electric options like the MG 4 Electric showcases the industry’s commitment to sustainable mobility without compromising on performance.
Whether you prioritize power, fuel efficiency, or eco-friendly choices, the 2024 AWD hatchback market offers a diverse range of vehicles, ensuring that consumers can find the perfect balance between their driving preferences and practical needs.
