Review of the Honda Civic (2012–2017)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £5,959 77%
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Honda
Honda
Verdict in comparison: A distinctly different family vehicle
The ride quality and steering feel of the latest Civic are significantly better than those of the previous model, and it is a safe and secure car to drive. The Civic’s distinctive body form has a minor influence on access and space, but overall it is very useful.
Advantages Class-leading boot
Safe handling Large front
affordable diesels
Cons
a poor view to the rear
difficult to park
Driving is boring
1.8-liter petrol engine produces high CO emissions.
Review of the 2019– BMW 1 Series
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 75% £25,915
key attributes
Medium New Petrol/Diesel/Mild Hybrid Available
BMW 1
BMW 1
judgement in comparison: Impresses in almost every way
The BMW 1 Series has undergone nearly all of these improvements and is now a more serious family car than ever before, even though it may not be as striking to look at or drive as it once was. The new model’s front-wheel drive may irritate experienced drivers and BMW purists, but it is still a lot of fun to drive. It receives a Best Buy rating for overall value because it has minimal cons.
Pros
luxurious cabin
Comfortable with decent passenger space
slick engines
Cons
Divisive fashion
Smoother start-stop operation is possible.
Review of the Toyota Auris Hybrid (2007–2012)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £5,315 75%
key attributes
Medium
used just
entire hybrid
Toyota
Toyota
Comparative judgement: mainsteam appeal for hybrid economies
Toyota has done well with its hybrid; it’s a respectable medium hatchback with the potential for great fuel economy. What is there to dislike?
Low operating expenses
Quiet and supple Cons
Battery limits boot space Space-age regulates unattractive
limited range for electric only
Review of the Toyota Auris Hybrid (2013–2019)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £8,284 74%
key attributes
Medium
used just
entire hybrid
Toyota
Toyota
Verdict in comparison: A well-rounded Best Buy hybrid
The Auris is a good all-around automobile and a great illustration of hybrid technology in action. It’s a Best Buy from Which?
Pros
Low emissions and high efficiency
Large front cabin Defensive driving faults
Unquiet CVT
Small rear seats
Boot space is scarce
a rigid cabin layout
Review of the Volkswagen Golf GTE (2015–2020)
Price from Test ScoreShow Context: £13,369 74%
key attributes
Medium
used just
Powerful hybrid (PHEV)
Volkswagen
Volkswagen
Verdict contrast: Plug-in hybrid star
This vehicle is divided in two. It is quiet but energetic in full electric mode. Even though it eventually lacks the Golf GTI’s crispness, it transforms into a great performer when the GTE button is pressed and the full power of its two engines is utilised. Overall, this is a fantastic hatchback, but it’s unfortunate that Euro NCAP never evaluated it to demonstrate its qualifications as a secure family vehicle.
Benefits of an electric mode 31-mile range
outstanding performance
Cons Very fuel-efficient
Impact of batteries on boot space
Not the best DSG gearbox
Expensive
Review of the BMW 1 Series (2011–2019)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £6,503 73%
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
BMW 1 Series
BMW 1 Series
Exceptionally enjoyable to drive medium hatchback
Rear seat and cargo capacity are the 1 Series’ biggest complaints. However, we adore the cabin’s tilted controls for the driver. Driver happiness is a major focus of the 1 Series driving experience. The trade-off for this car’s extremely sharp handling is a little rough ride.
Pros
superior engines
affordable diesels
Interior with excellent ergonomics Cons
crowded backseats
Cheap small boot
unexpectedly noisy
Review of the Mazda 3 (2013–2019)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £6,236 73%
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Mazda 3
Mazda 3
Compared conclusion: A slightly unconventional choice
The Mazda 3 is a capable contender to the more well-known players in the medium-hatchback market, with a driving behaviour that is noticeably sporty. Because of the way Mazda approaches its engine lineup, its fuel economy is competitive. The decent spaciousness and reasonable reliability of this Mazda earn it a Which? Top Shop.
Pros
I like to drive.
Roomy
fully prepared
a smooth ride
looks fashionable
Reliable\sCons
Some diesel engines are loud.
reduced visibility
Review of the Honda Civic Type-R (2017–2021).
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £34,415 73%
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Honda Civic
Honda Civic
Verdict in comparison: Boy-racer appearances conceal a real driver’s vehicle
There is no denying that the Civic Type-R is a full-blooded hot hatchback that can hold its head high amid its more expensive competition despite the controversial cartoonish design. Indeed, it’s one of the most compelling fast family cars available for seasoned drivers who prioritise having a good time while driving.
Positive performance aspects
great cornering skills
complete standard safety kit
Cons
four chairs only
restricted visibility throughout
Exceptional riding comfort
Review of the Volkswagen Golf GTD (2020-).
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £32,760 73%
key attributes
Medium New Petrol/Diesel/Mild Hybrid Available
Volkswagen Golf
Volkswagen Golf
Verdict in comparison: Shows diesel is still alive
In GTD form, the Golf 8 is a very attractive competitor in the market for popular mid-size hatchbacks. Its robust diesel engine provides both strong performance and respectable fuel economy, and its sporty chassis provides a level of pleasure rivalled only by the Golf GTI. The Golf GTD is still a Best Buy despite minor shortcomings like a cumbersome digital control system.
Pros Outstanding performance
a flexible chassis
Safe
Cons Well-equipped
pricey to acquire
obtrusive control mechanisms
it may be loud
Review of the Toyota Auris (2012–2019)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £5,788
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Toyota Auris
Toyota Auris
Comparison finding: Reliable but dull transportation
The second-generation Auris is a more attractive car than the first, even though it isn’t the world’s most exciting to drive. It is an obvious Best Buy model because it covers all the other criteria so well, including excellent reliability.
Pros Outstanding dependability
Warranty for five years
Spacious\sSafe\sCons
sensitive clutch and brake pedals
Motorway speeds produce noise
Review of the Toyota Corolla Hybrid (2019-)
Price from Test ScoreShow Context 72% $23,091
key attributes
Medium
newly available Full hybrid
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Corolla
Conclusion: A fantastic hybrid hatchback
The brand-new Corolla is Toyota’s greatest midsize hatchback in a while. In addition to producing low CO2 emissions (both officially and in our own independent lab testing), it showcases the finest of the brand’s hybrid technology and is far more pleasant to drive and ride in than the Auris it replaces. Though not nearly as premium-feeling or as snappy to drive as other competitors, it is unquestionably deserving of the Best Buy designation.
Pros
a calm driving environment
minimal emissions
Cheap engine Safe Drawbacks
No available blind-spot monitor
Rear cabin seems claustrophobic
mediocre braking ability
Review of the Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013–2020)
Price from Test ScoreShow Context 72% £14,554
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Verdict in comparison: The “grandfather” of hot hatchbacks
The performance of the Golf GTI will make some sports car drivers envious. Although the ride is a tad on the harsh side, the engine has a lot of usable power, the steering is responsive, and the handling is composed. The GTI is still a fairly practical option, with plenty of interior room and a respectable luggage.
Excellent engine and transmission
a large responsive steering wheel
Cons: sharp handling
Expensive
The BMW M135i is more enjoyable overall.
Review of the Hyundai I30 (2012–2017)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £4,857 72%
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Hyundai I30
Hyundai I30
A no-excuses-needed Hyundai hatchback, in comparison
The i30 is a capable midsize vehicle. Although it may not be thrilling, this family hatchback is competent in every way and has a sizable cargo. The level of equipment is also high.
Pros
fully prepared
Low cost of ownership
Warranty for five years
Cons
Noise from a diesel engine
Cabin is not elegant
limited visibility
Review of the Lexus CT (2011-2020)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £24,770 71%
key attributes
Medium
used just
entire hybrid
Lexus CT
Lexus CT
Verdict on comparison: Effective and trustworthy
The Lexus CT200h should be inexpensive to operate, especially in urban areas, thanks to its safe hybrid drivetrain and frugal design. Although it is getting on in years and may not be the most pleasurable or comfortable family hatchback, it is incredibly dependable.
Pros
low need for gasoline
Cons: Simple to drive, excellent reliability
Stiff riding, little boot
complicated entertainment system
Review of the DS DS 4 Crossback (2015–2018)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £7,999 71%
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Crossback
Crossback
Judgment comparison: style and content
The front of the DS4 Crossback is roomy, and it’s simple to manoeuvre. The rear compartment is cramped, and the ride is a bit too rough. However, it is well-appointed, distinctive-looking, and appealing in terms of style.
Benefits Well-equipped
Safe practises
Looks good
Large up front Smooth diesels Negatives
shoddy packaging
No 4WD, squeezed rear, stiff ride
lacks flexibility
Review of the Seat Leon Cupra (2014–2019)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £12,803 71%
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Leon Cupra
Leon Cupra
superior hot hatch performer in comparison
In terms of performance and manoeuvrability, the Leon Cupra can go head-to-head with the venerable VW Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST. However, it’s also highly useful and cosy, earning it a well-deserved Best Buy.
Pros
greater than the Golf GTI’s power
superior grip and comfort, and good value
Cons
quickly loses value
Uncomfortably furnished compared to the Golf GTI’s cabin Kia Ceed GT (2019-) review
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 71% £26,160
key attributes
Medium New Petrol/Diesel/Mild Hybrid Available
Kia Ceed
Kia Ceed
Convincing all-around performance hatchback, according to the comparison.
The Kia Ceed GT is the most potent variant available, with an engine that feels quick, smooth, and has an appropriately gruff sound to go with it. The driving experience is improved by a well-designed cabin with obvious controls, and supportive, cushy seats offer all-around comfort. The Ceed GT is a remarkable all-arounder thanks to its dynamic layout and practical surroundings. When necessary, it can house a family and all of its related clutter. The only noticeable drawback, while being reasonably priced and well-equipped, is in terms of fuel efficiency. The Ceed underperformed in our own independent fuel testing, which are more rigorous than the official tests.
Positive driving characteristics
Generous interior space
Cons Top-notch safety gear as usual
inefficient fuel usage in our tests
sounds from the roads
Large rear pillars block the view from the rear of the Volkswagen Golf GTE (2021-) review.
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 71% £36,11
key attributes
Medium New Plug-in hybrids are accessible (PHEV)
Golf GTE
Golf GTE
Verdict in comparison: Usable plug-in
Want a VW Golf GTI but don’t want to deal with the expensive maintenance? The plug-in hybrid GTE might provide the solution. If you use it mostly for short trips, it can be relatively inexpensive despite having hot-hatch levels of performance. Driving it is also a lot of fun and comfortable. Even if the digital dashboard is annoying and the cabin quality isn’t up to VW’s customary standards, the Golf GTE is still a Best Buy despite these flaws.
Pros
effective for quick trips
Great driving experience and plenty of passenger room Cons
unfocused touchscreen
pricey to acquire
Review of the BMW 1-series Coupe (2007–2013): smaller boot than normal Golf
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 70% £4,771
key attributes
Medium
used just
gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
BMW 1-series Coupe
BMW 1-series Coupe
Verdict in comparison: a desirable, capable petite coupé
This small four-seat sports car seems incredibly luxurious. It’s fun to drive because to its terrific performance and quick handling, essentially irrespective of the engine you select. It feels high-quality throughout and features a really comfortable cabin for two adults, if not for four. Even the boot is an appropriate size.
Pros
powerful engines
athletic chassis
surprisingly useful
Well-designed cabin Drawbacks
a poor view to the rear
crowded backseats
difficult manual clutch
Expensive
Review of the Mercedes-Benz B Class Electric Drive (2015–2017)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 70% £13,669
key attributes
Medium Only Used
Electric
Mercedes-Benz B
Mercedes-Benz B
Verdict on comparison: Electricity with few compromises
The B-class ED from Mercedes is an electric vehicle with just a few limitations, such as a range of fewer than 100 miles on a single charge. It is quick, comfortable, and agile, and you may customise it to favour power over range or the opposite. There has a large boot as well as plenty of cabin room.
Pros\sPowerful\sSpacious
no emissions from tailpipes
Cons
pricey to acquire
Batteries are harmed when range is exceeded by 96 miles.
