A choice of hatchbacks

Chad Bryan, Sunday Gleaner Writer

What do a sleek, trim, spirited green Mazda 2, a fiery hot red Volkswagen Golf GTI and a metallic silver Nissan Tiida have in common?

They are all hatchbacks, so designated because of the large door positioned to the rear of the vehicle that swings upward. Though this feature is utilised by other cars, the hatchback is traditionally viewed as a small coupe-to-sedan sized car with the raise-open door at the back to maximize storage space.

As 2011 draws to a close, new automobile dealers have already begun releasing their 2012 hatchbacks. This week, Automotives looks at some of the new car buyers hatchback options.

• Mazda 2 from Executive Motors

For all Mazda lovers who need that 'zoom-zoom' effect and those seeking to save a few dollars on a new car purchase, the 2012 Mazda 2 hatchback offers improved fuel economy.

Base price: $2.7 million

Duty concession price: $2.171 million

Specifications: 1500 engine, dual airbags, 15-inch alloy wheels, anti-lock braking (ABS), fog lamps, automatic transmission, and CD player and iPod connectivity.

Colours: true red, spirited green metallic, aluminum metallic, pink, deep mocha, yellow and crystal white pearl mica.

• Honda Fit from ATL Motors

The Honda Fit 2012 boasts impressive cargo room and cabin versatility, with a spacious backseat and excellent visibility.

Base Price: $2.376 million

Duty concession price: $1.866 million

Specifications: fog lights, paddle shifters (a new feature), 1400 i-vtec engine, dual airbags, indicators nestled in the mirrors, cool box for beverages and large trunk space.

• Kia Picanto, Rio and Soul 2012 from Kia Motors

The new generation Kia Picanto made its debut on the global market at the 2011 Geneva Car Show in March. This sporty and stylish automobile delivers to drivers an advanced assortment of gadgetry and eco-friendly technology for all those environmentally conscious individuals.

Base price/standard package: $1,548,727

Concession price: $1,230,864

Sports package: $1,628,471.99

Concession price: $1,294,064.25

Specifications: LED rear lamps, LED positioning headlamps, grip-type outside door handles, thumb rests, audio remote control, iPod, AUX and USB connectivity, Bluetooth hands free, trip computer, cup holder mood lamp and supervision cluster.

Colours: café mocha, alice blue, lemon grass, honey bee and galaxy black.

Possessing a low roofline that lends to its coupe-like silhouette, the Kia Rio is all hatchback. Its clean flowing lines combined with the latest technology, advanced features and low emissions together, make for a gifted motor vehicle both inside and out Furthermore, its ergonomically designed cockpit puts the driver in control and exudes a youthful attraction.

Base price/standard package: $2,032,673.00

Concession price: $1,614,409

Sports package: $2,114, 790.19

Concession price: $1,679,490

Specifications: LED side repeaters, 1248 cc, smart key, telescopic steering, auto cruise control, Bluetooth, steering wheel audio remote, crash pad album (to personalise Rio with a picture album), solar control glass, glove box cooling, rain sensor and alloy pedals.

Colours: fresh beige, electronic blue, aurora black and platinum graphite.

Thinking of adding a little soul to your driving? Then consider the Kia Soul. Pushing the boundaries, the Soul is always moving forward and always evolving. Its premium look and feel is due to its unique design that has undergone enhanced detailing, tweaked proportions and modern finishes.

Base price/standard package: $2,032,673

Concession price: $1,886,802

Luxury package: $2,720,999.10

Concession price: $2,180,680

Specifications: Gamma 1.6 MPI engine, six airbag system, vehicle stability management, hill start assist, remote keyless entry, outside mirrors with side repeaters, AUX and iPod, manual tilt and telescopic steering, two-stage seat warmer and 15-inch steel wheels.

Colours: tomato red, olive green, bright silver and vanilla shake.

Hyundai Veloster 2012 from Key Motors

Unveiled in 2011, the Hyundai Veloster's style and shape boast a motorcycle-looking interior, trapezoidal exhaust tips, muscular fenders and scalloped glass heavy rear. It's no wonder Yohan 'The Beast' Blake, who was presented with one at the Wealth Auto Show in late November, would find this automobile attractive.

Base price: $3.5 - $3.7 million

Specifications: fog lamps, telescopic steering, dual side and curtain airbags, automatic/manual transmissions, projection headlamp and levelling device.