View source for Hatchback

{{Short description|Car body configuration with a rear door}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2020}}

{{Multiple image
| align = right
| direction = vertical
| width = 220
| image1 = Volkswagen Golf VIII IMG 4023.jpg
| caption1 = [[Volkswagen Golf]] 5-door hatchback
| image2 = Mini Hatch (F66) IMG 0041.jpg
| caption2 = [[Mini Hatch]] 3-door hatchback
| total_width = 
| alt1 = 
}}

A '''hatchback''' is a [[car body style|car body configuration]] with a rear door<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.thefreedictionary.com/hatchback |title=hatchback - definition |work=American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language |edition=Fifth |date=2011 |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref><ref name="merriam-webster">{{cite web|url= https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hatchback |title="Hatchback" |work=Merriam-Webster |date=n.d. |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.dictionary.com/browse/hatchback |title=hatchback |website=dictionary.com |date=n.d. |access-date=3 March 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/hatchback |title=hatchback |website=ldoceonline.com |date=n.d. |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/hatchback?q=hatchback |title=hatchback |work= Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary |date=n.d. |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> that swings upward to provide access to the main interior of the car as a cargo area rather than just to a separated trunk. Hatchbacks may feature fold-down second-row seating, where the interior can be reconfigured to prioritize passenger or cargo volume.

While early examples of the body configuration can be traced to the 1930s, the [[Merriam-Webster]] dictionary dates the term itself to 1970.<ref name="merriam-webster"/> The hatchback body style has been marketed worldwide on cars ranging in size from [[supermini car|superminis]] to [[small family car]]s, as well as [[executive car]]s and some [[sports car]]s. They are a primary component of [[sport utility vehicle]]s.

== Characteristics ==
[[File:Three body styles with pillars and boxes.png|thumb|The body characteristics of a sedan (top), estate/station wagon (middle), and hatchback (bottom)]]
[[File:Hatch and wagon with pillar layout a.svg|thumb|Comparison of a hatchback with a station wagon from the same [[model range]] ]]

The distinguishing feature of a hatchback is a rear door that opens upwards<ref name="AutomotiveTech">{{cite book|first=Jack |last=Erjavec |title=Automotive Technology: A Systems Approach Volume 2 |page=55 |publisher=Thomposon Delmar Learning |year=2005|quote=Liftback or Hatchback: The distinguishing feature of this vehicle is its luggage compartment, which is an extension of the passenger compartment. Access to the luggage compartment is gained through an upward opening hatch-type door. A car of this design can be a three or five door model, the third or fifth door is the rear hatch. Station Wagon: A station wagon is characterized by its roof which extends straight back, allowing a spacious interior luggage compartment in the rear. The rear door, which can be opened numerous ways depending on the model, provides access to the luggage compartment. Station wagons come in two and four-door models and have space for up to nine passengers.|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=U4TBoJB2zgsC&q=%22station+wagon%22+vs.+%22hatchback&pg=PA55 |isbn=978-1-4018-4831-6 |access-date=3 March 2014}}</ref> and is hinged at roof level (as opposed to the boot/trunk lid of a [[sedan (car)|saloon/sedan]], which is hinged below the rear window). Most hatchbacks use a [[Three-box styling#|two-box design]] body style,<ref>{{cite web |title=2018 Hyundai Elantra GT - Driven |url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/hyundai/2018-hyundai-elantra-gt-driven/ |website=TopSpeed.com |date=27 February 2018 |access-date=31 May 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Hatchback vs Wagon: What's the Difference Here? |url= https://wheelscene.com/hatchback-vs-wagon/ |website=wheelscene.com |date= 23 May 2017 |access-date=31 May 2018}}</ref> where the cargo area ([[Trunk (car)|trunk/boot]]) and passenger areas are a single volume. The rear seats can often be folded down to increase the available cargo area.<ref>{{cite web |title=Hatchback buying info |url= https://www.edmunds.com/hatchback/ |website=edmunds.com |access-date=31 May 2018}}</ref> Hatchbacks may have a removable rigid parcel shelf,<ref name="Hilliers">{{cite book|first1=Victor |last1=Hillier |first2=Peter |last2=Coombes |title=Hillier's Fundamentals of Motor Vehicle Technology: Volume 1 |edition=Fifth |publisher=Nelson Thornes |year=2004|isbn=978-0-7487-8082-2 |page=11 |quote=The estate body, also known as station wagons in some countries, has the roofline extended to the rear of the body to enlarge its internal capacity. Folding the rear seats down gives a large floor area for the carriage of luggage or goods. Stronger suspension springs are fitted at the rear to support the extra load. Hatchback: The hatchback is generally based on a saloon body but with the boot or trunk area blended into the centre section of the body. The hatchback is therefore halfway between a saloon and estate car. This type of body is very popular due to its versatility and style. Although some hatchbacks are in fact saloon bodies with the boot or trunk effectively removed (usually the smaller cars), many hatchbacks retain the full length of the saloon but the roofline extends down to the rear of the vehicle. As with the saloon bodies, a hatchback can have two or four passenger doors, however, there is a tendency to refer to hatchbacks as three or five doors because the rear compartment lid (or tailgate) is also referred to as a door on the hatchback bodies. As with the estate, the rear seats fold down to give a flat floor for the transportation of luggage or other objects. When the tailgate is closed, the luggage compartment is usually covered with a parcel shelf.|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=DoYaRsNFlEYC&q=%22station+wagon%22+vs.+%22hatchback%22&pg=PA11 |via=Google Books |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> or flexible roll-up [[tonneau cover]] to cover the cargo space behind the rear seats.

===3 door and 5 door terminology===
When describing the body style, the hatch is often counted as a door, therefore a hatchback with two passenger doors may be called a ''three-door'' and a hatchback with four passenger doors may be called a ''five-door''.<ref name="Hilliers"/><ref>{{cite web |title=What is a Hatchback? |url= https://www.kbb.com/what-is/hatchback/ |work=Kelley Blue Book |date=10 May 2021 |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref>

===Estates vs. liftbacks vs. notchbacks===
[[File:The rearview of Citroën C3 (3rd generation) with her trunk open.jpg|thumb|2017 [[Citroën C3]] pictured, a tailgate hinged at the roof is a predominant characteristic of hatchbacks and estates/station wagons]]

[[Station wagon|Estates/station wagons]] and [[liftback]]s have in common a [[Three-box styling|two-box design]] configuration, a shared interior volume for passengers and cargo<ref name="AutomotiveTech" /><ref name="Vehicle Dynamics" /> and a rear door (often called a [[station wagon#Tailgate designs|tailgate]] in the case of an estate/wagon) that is hinged at roof level.<ref name="cdn2">{{cite web|title=Car Design Glossary – Part 2: One-Box (Monospace or Monovolume) |publisher=Car Design News |quote=A three or five-door hatchback (no separate trunk compartment) is a 'two-box' car. |url= http://www.cardesignnews.com/site/home/new_cars/display/store4/item131867/ |access-date=3 March 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131203045234/http://www.cardesignnews.com/site/home/new_cars/display/store4/item131867/ |archive-date=3 December 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=American Cars of the '50s |first=Mike |last=Mueller |year=2003 |publisher=MBI Publishing |isbn=978-0-7603-1712-9}}</ref> Liftback cars are a type of hatchback, but differ from traditional hatchbacks from a styling perspective in having more of a sloped roofline. The term "[[fastback]]" may sometimes also be used by manufacturers to market liftback cars.<ref name="Flammang-Catalog2">{{cite book|last=Flammang |first=James M. |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=xTM2Ixfev5QC&q=fastback |title=Standard Catalog of American Cars, 1976-1986 |publisher=Krause Publications |year=1990 |isbn=978-0-87341-133-2 |page=viii |access-date=1 March 2016}}</ref> A [[fastback]] is a broad automotive term used to describe the styling of the rear of a car in having a single slope from the roof to the rear [[Bumper (automobile)|bumper]].<ref name="Flammang-Catalog">{{cite book|last=Flammang |first=James M. |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=xTM2Ixfev5QC&q=fastback |title=Standard Catalog of American Cars, 1976-1986 |publisher=Krause Publications |year=1990 |isbn=978-0-87341-133-2 |page=viii |access-date=1 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title="fastback" |url= https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fastback |work=Merriam-Webster |date=n.d. |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Words That Rhyme with fastback |url= https://www.encyclopedia.com/humanities/dictionaries-thesauruses-pictures-and-press-releases/fastback |website=encyclopedia.com |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref>

Some hatchbacks are [[notchback]] [[Car body configurations#Three-box design|three box design]]s, bearing a resemblance to [[Sedans|sedans/saloons]] from a styling perspective, but being closer to hatchbacks in functionality by having a tailgate hinged from the roof. This is featured on cars such as the 1951 [[Kaiser-Frazer]] Vagabond,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gilbertson |first1=Scotty |title=The First Hatchback? 1951 Kaiser Traveler |url= https://barnfinds.com/the-first-hatchback-1951-kaiser-traveler/ |publisher=Barn Finds |access-date=2 February 2021 |date=30 December 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Litwin |first1=Matt |title=1949-1950 Kaiser Traveler and Vagabond |url= https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/1949-1950-kaiser-traveler-and-vagabond |publisher=Hemmings Classic Car |access-date=2 February 2021 |date=January 2010 |quote=it was innovative Kaiser that gets full credit for an automotive first with its Traveler and Vagabond hatchback sedans}}</ref> [[Simca 1100]],<ref>{{cite web |title=Simca 1100 (1967 - 1982) |url= https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/simca/1100/history/ |publisher=Honest John |date=25 March 2013 |access-date=2 February 2021 |location=United Kingdom |quote=at the cutting edge when it was launched, offering front wheel drive allied with hatchback versatility}}</ref> [[Mazda6#First generation (GG1; 2002)|Mazda 6 GG1]], and [[Opel Vectra#Vectra C (2002–2008)|Opel Vectra C]]. As such, notchbacks are not fastbacks, as the slope of the roofline on a notchback is interrupted by its three-box design.

An estate/wagon typically differs from a liftback or hatchback by being longer (therefore more likely to have a [[Pillar (car)|D-pillar]]). Other potential differences of a station wagon include:
* steeper rake at the rear (i.e. the rear door is more vertical)<ref name="AutomotiveTech"/><ref name="Hilliers"/><ref name="nyt1">{{cite news|title=The Hatchback Is Back (but Nobody Uses the H-Word) |newspaper=The New York Times |first=Dan |last=Neil |url= https://www.nytimes.com/2002/04/28/automobiles/the-hatch-is-back-but-please-don-t-use-the-h-word.html |date=28 April 2002 |access-date=3 March 2014}}</ref>
* a third row of seats
* rear suspension designed for increased load capacity or to minimize intrusion into the cargo area<ref name="Hilliers"/>
* the tailgate is more likely to be a multi-part design or extend down to the [[Bumper (car)|bumper]]

{{multiple image
| direction         = horizontal
| image1            = 2018 Hyundai i30 SE Nav T-GDi 1.3 Rear.jpg
| height1           = 180
| caption1          = [[Hyundai i30]] as a conventional 5-door hatchback
| image2            = 2018 Hyundai i30 Premium S-A Fastback 1.3 Rear.jpg
| height2           = 180
| caption2          = [[Hyundai i30]] fastback, with a liftback tailgate. Note the tailgate and roofline sloped at a more horizontal angle than on a traditional hatchback.
| align             = center
| total_width       = 
| alt1              = 
| image3            = 2017 Hyundai i30 Premium T-GDi Estate 1.4 Rear.jpg
| caption3          = [[Hyundai i30]] estate/station wagon. The roofline extends further to the rear.
}}

===Liftback===
{{main|Liftback}}
[[File:1976 Toyota Celica GT Liftback in red, rear left.jpg|thumb|1976 [[Toyota Celica]] GT Liftback U.S. Model]]

"Liftback" is a term for hatchback models in which the rear cargo door or hatch is more horizontally angled than on an average hatchback, and as a result, the hatch is lifted more upwards than backward, to open.<ref name="Vehicle Dynamics">{{cite book |first=Reza N. |last=Jaza |title=Vehicle dynamics: theory and applications |publisher=Springer-Verlag |year=2008 |pages=30–31 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=Pvsv78xj7UIC&q=%22station+wagon%22+vs.+%22hatchback%22&pg=PA31 |isbn=978-0-387-74243-4 |access-date=3 March 2014 |quote=A hatchback car is called a liftback when the opening area is very sloped and is lifted up to open.}}</ref>

The term was first used by Toyota in 1973, to describe the [[Toyota Celica]] Liftback GT.<ref name="Automobile">{{cite web |url= https://www.automobilemag.com/news/1976-1977-toyota-celica-gt-liftback/ |title=Collectible Classic: 1976-1977 Toyota Celica GT Liftback|date=3 December 2010 |publisher=Automobile Magazine (U.S.) |first=Jim |last=Fets |access-date=7 September 2020}}</ref><ref name="Newsday">{{cite web |url= https://www.newsday.com/classifieds/cars/in-the-garage-1977-toyota-celica-gt-1.4815567 |title=In the Garage: 1977 Toyota Celica GT|date=15 March 2013 |publisher=Newsday |first=David |last=Fluhrer |access-date=7 September 2020}}</ref>

<!-- The following quote is needed due to ongoing questions on the origin/usage of the Liftback name-->
{{blockquote|''Toyota called the new body style a Liftback, signifying that it was a three-door hatchback rather than a two-door coupe. With its sloping fastback roofline, the Celica Liftback was, if anything, even less habitable for rear-seat passengers than was the hardtop, but the hatchback roof and folding rear seat made the Liftback more versatile for quotidian chores or the sort of "active lifestyle" pastimes that so fascinate advertising copywriters.''<ref>{{cite web|url= https://ateupwithmotor.com/model-histories/toyota-celica-first-gen/3/ |title=Celestial Pony: Toyota's First-Generation Celica |first=Aaron |last=Severson |date=5 March 2017}}</ref>}}

Later, Toyota needed to distinguish between two 5-door versions of the [[Toyota Corolla]], one of which was a conventional 5-door hatchback with a nearly vertical rear hatch while the other one was a 5-door more horizontal hatch, for which the term ''Liftback'' was used.

[[Saab Automobile|Saab]] called similar body style of their cars [[combi coupé]], starting from 1974.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Saab 99 Combi Coupe : 1974 – 1978|url=http://www.saabhistory.com/2008/11/29/the-saab-99-combi-coupe-1974-1978/|website=www.saabhistory.com|accessdate=9 April 2018}}{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> 
{{clear}}
== History ==
{{Multiple image
| align             = right
| width             = 190
| direction         = vertical
| image1            = 1938 Citroen hatchback.JPG
| caption1          = 1938 [[Citroën Traction Avant]] Commerciale - 1952 shape is shown.
| image2            = 1951 Kaiser-Frazer Vagabond hatchback 2013 FL AACA-2.jpg
| caption2          = 1951 [[Kaiser Motors|Kaiser-Frazer Vagabond]]
| image3            = Austin A40 Farina Countryman (10932261733).jpg
| caption3          = 1959 [[Austin A40 Farina|Austin A40 Farina Countryman]]
| image4            = JAG SIDE.jpg
| caption4          = 1966 [[Jaguar E-Type]] with side opening hatch
}}

=== History ===
The first production hatchback was made by [[Citroën]] in 1938: the (11CV) ''"Commerciale"'' version of their 1934–1957 [[Citroën Traction Avant]] series.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.citroencarclub.org.uk/drupal/node/31 |title=Traction Avant |website=citroencarclub.org.uk |access-date=20 August 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160312095447/http://citroencarclub.org.uk/drupal/node/31 |archive-date=12 March 2016 }}</ref><ref name="Truth">{{cite web|url= https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2017/02/citroen-traction-avant-11cv-commerciale-forward-thinking-french-hatchback/ |first=Carter |last=Johnson |title=Citroën Traction Avant 11CV Commerciale – The World's First Hatchback |date=9 February 2017 |website=thetruthaboutcars.com |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> The initial target market was tradesmen who needed to carry bulky objects, like butchers, bakers, vintners, and grocers.<ref name="Truth"/> Before [[World War II]], the tailgate had two pieces, a top section hinged from roof level and a bottom section hinged from below.<ref name="Truth"/> When production of the Commerciale resumed after the war, the tailgate became a one-piece design that was hinged from roof level, as per the design used on most hatchbacks since.<ref name="Truth"/><ref>{{cite web |title=History Of Hatchbacks & The Best Hatchback Cars 2014 |url= https://www.globalcarsbrands.com/history-of-hatchbacks-and-the-best-hatchback-cars/ |website=globalcarsbrands.com |date= 16 December 2014 |access-date=4 June 2018}}</ref>

In 1949, [[Kaiser-Frazer]] introduced the Vagabond and Traveler hatchbacks. These models were styled much like a typical 1940s sedan, fully retaining their three-box profile; however, they included a two-piece tailgate as per the first Citroën 11CV Commerciale.<ref>{{cite web |title=Historic Hatchback |url= https://www.oldcarsweekly.com/features/historic_hatchback |website=oldcarsweekly.com |access-date=4 June 2018}}</ref> The Vagabond and Traveler models also had folding rear seats and a shared volume for the passengers and cargo.<ref>{{cite web|first=Bill|last=Vance|url= http://www.autos.ca/motoring-memories/motoring-memories-kaiser-traveler-the-first-hatchback/ |title=Motoring Memories: Motoring Memories: Kaiser Traveler – the first hatchback |website=Autos.ca |date=27 March 2001 |access-date=20 August 2014}}</ref> The design was neither fully a sedan nor a station wagon, but the folding rear seat provided for a large, {{convert|8|ft|m|1|adj=on}} long interior cargo area.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://auto.howstuffworks.com/1951-1953-kaiser-traveler.htm?srch_tag=zxs2fjnuj4hrutzno2rzc2cgpfsvmeu3 |title=1951, 1952, 1953 Kaiser Traveler |date=23 November 2007 |website=auto.howstuffworks.com |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> These Kaiser-Frazer models have been described as "America's First Hatchback".<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.hemmings.com/stories/2011/01/23/sia-flashback-1949-kaiser-traveler-americas-first-hatchback |first=Daniel |last=Strohl |title=SIA Flashback – 1949 Kaiser Traveler: America's First Hatchback |work=Hemmings |date=23 January 2011 |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref>

The [[British Motor Corporation]] (BMC) launched a 'Countryman' version of the [[Austin A40 Farina]] [[Car body configurations#Two-box design|two{{nbh}}box]] economy car in 1959. Just like its [[Austin A30|A30]] and [[Austin A35|A35 Countryman]] predecessors, it was a very small [[station wagon|estate car]] — but instead of regular, sideways opening rear doors, it had a horizontally split tailgate, having a top-hinged upper door and bottom-hinged lower door. The 1959 A40 Countryman differed from the 1958 A40 Farina saloon, in that the rear window was marginally smaller, to allow for a frame that could be lifted with roof-mounted hinges and side support struts so that the car now incorporated a horizontal-split two-piece tailgate. The lower panel was now flush with the floor and its bottom-mounted hinges were strengthened.<ref>{{cite news|title=New Estate Car |newspaper=The Times |date=20 October 1959 |page=16 |issue=54596}}</ref>

===Sports cars===
[[File:1967 MG MGB GT rear.jpg|thumb|MG MGB offered a rear hatch GT coupé version in late 1965.]]

In 1953, [[Aston Martin]] marketed the [[Aston Martin DB2/4|DB2]] with a top-hinged rear tailgate, manufacturing 700 examples. Its successor, the 1958 [[Aston Martin DB Mark III|DB Mark III]], also offered a folding rear seat. The 1954 [[AC Aceca]] and later [[Aceca-Bristol]] from [[AC Cars]] had a similar hatch tailgate, though only 320 were built.

In 1965, MG had Pininfarina modify the [[MG MGB|MGB]] roadster into a hatchback design called the MGB GT, becoming the first volume-production sports car with this type of body.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Martin |first1=Keith |title=1967 MGB-GT Coupe |url= https://www.sportscarmarket.com/profile/1967-mgb-gt-coupe |work=Sports Car Market |date=1 May 2003 |access-date=12 November 2023}}</ref>

Many [[Coupé#3 door coupé|coupés have 3 doors]], including the [[Jaguar E-Type]] and [[Nissan S30|Datsun 240Z]].

{{clear}}
=== Mass market acceptance ===
{{Multiple image | align = right | width = 190 | direction = vertical 
| image1 = Renault R4 BW 2016-07-17 13-45-17.jpg
| caption1 = 1961 introduced [[Renault 4]]
| image2 = Rétromobile 2015 - Renault 16 TL Version USA - 1972 - 006 (cropped).jpg
| caption2 = 1965 introduced [[Renault 16]] — the brand's top saloon in the later 1960s
}}

In 1961, Renault introduced the [[Renault 4]] as a moderately upscale alternative to the [[Citroën 2CV]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Le Curbside Classic: Renault 4 – The First Hatchback |url= http://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-european/le-curbside-classic-renault-r4/ |website=curbsideclassic.com |date= 11 May 2016 |access-date=9 June 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Groupe Renault history since 1898 |url= https://group.renault.com/en/our-company/heritage/#1970-1960 |website=renault.com |access-date=9 June 2018}}</ref> The Renault 4 was the first million-selling, mass-produced, compact two-box car with a steeply raked rear side, opened by a large, one-piece, lift-gate hatch.

During its production life cycle, Renault marketed the R4 calling it a small [[station wagon]], just like Austin's series of small Countryman estate models from 1954 until 1968 – even after the term "hatchback" appeared around 1970. The company only offered one ''two-box'' body style. The Renault 4 continued in production through 1992, selling over 8 million cars.

In 1965, the R4 [[economy car]] was complemented by the D-segment [[Renault 16]], the first volume production two-box, hatchback [[family car]].<ref name=AROnline/> Its rear seats were adjustable, would fold down, or could be completely removed. The Renault 16 was successful in a market segment previously exclusively populated by notchback sedans and, despite making only one body style for 15 years, consumers purchased over 1{{3/4}} million R16s.

{{Multiple image
| align             = right
| width             = 190
| direction         = vertical
| image1            = Simca 1100 Special-79.jpg
| caption1          = 1967 introduced [[Simca 1100]]
| image2            = Citroen Dyane (7490082054).jpg
| caption2          = 1967 introduced [[Citroën Dyane]]
| image3            = 1975 Austin Maxi (40186828084).jpg
| caption3          = 1969 introduced [[Austin Maxi]]
| image4            = VW Golf I rear 20080930.jpg
| caption4          = 1974 introduced [[Volkswagen Golf]]
| image5            = Rover sd1 club day gold (1).jpg
| caption5          = 1975 [[Rover SD1|Rover 3500]] 5 door hatchback
| image6            = 2017 Ford Mondeo Titanium ECOnetic 1.5 Front.jpg
| caption6          = 2017 [[Ford Mondeo (fourth generation)|Ford Mondeo Mk V]] ([[Ford Fusion (Americas)|Ford Fusion]]) hatchback. This variant is not sold in the US.
}}

=== Modern hatchbacks ===
Unlike the Renault 4, which had a semi-integrated body, mounted on a [[platform chassis]], and a front mid-mounted and longitudinally placed engine behind the front axle, the 1967 [[Simca 1100]], which followed in the footsteps of the 1959 [[Mini|BMC Mini]] with front-wheel drive, a more space-efficient [[transverse engine]] layout, unitary bodywork, and independent suspension (features which became key design concepts used by almost every mass-market family car since) - and it was the first hatchback with these features.<ref>{{cite web |title=Simca 1100 |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_simca_1100 |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=9 June 2018}}</ref> The Simca 1100 also came in both three and five-door variants, and the hatchback models took a central position, traditionally taken up by saloons, in a full model line-up, completed by a station wagon, as well as panel van versions.

Also in 1967, Citroën released the [[Citroën Dyane|Dyane]], a redesigned [[Citroën 2CV|2CV]] with a large rear hatch, to compete with the Renault 4.

The Simca was closely followed by Mini's larger stablemate, the [[Austin Maxi]]. Counting the rear hatch made it a five-door saloon. It featured a transverse-mounted [[SOHC|SOHC engine]], a five-speed transmission, and a flexible seating arrangement which gave the option of forming a double bed.<ref name="lancaster">{{cite web |title=Ten Pioneer British Hatchbacks |url= https://www.lancasterinsurance.co.uk/news/2019/january/11/ten-pioneer-british-hatchbacks/ |work=Lancaster Insurance |access-date=10 March 2019}}</ref> Created by the same designer as BMC's Mini, sir [[Alec Issigonis]] – accountants had determined that the car had to use the same set of doors as the [[BMC ADO17|Austin / Morris 1800]], but would be marketed below it in the model range, so needed a shorter rear body. A curtailed rear end with a big hatch resulted.<ref name=AROnline/> The Austin Maxi operated in the same market segment as the Renault 16, and the two competitors were closely matched in specifications and exterior dimensions, although the Maxi had significantly more interior space due to its transverse engine.<ref name=AROnline>{{cite web|url= https://www.aronline.co.uk/reviews/tested-austin-maxi-vs-renault-16/|title=Tested: Austin Maxi vs Renault 16|first=Keith |last=Adams |date=25 July 2011 |access-date=21 July 2019}}</ref>

In 1974, the [[Volkswagen Golf]] was introduced, intended to replace the ubiquitous [[VW Beetle|Beetle]].<ref>{{cite web |title=History's 10 Best Selling Cars of All Time |url= https://www.autoblog.com/photos/historys-10-bestselling-cars-of-all-time/#slide-1002394 |website=autoblog.com |access-date=9 June 2018}}</ref>

In 1976 [[British Leyland]] introduced the [[Rover SD1|Rover 3500]], a [[rear wheel drive]] [[executive car]] five-door hatchback.<ref name="lancaster"/>

===Europe===
Increasing demand for compact hatchbacks in Europe during the 1970s led to the release of models such as the [[Austin Ambassador]], [[Austin Maestro]], [[Fiat 127]], [[Saab 99]] and [[Renault 5]]. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, the majority of superminis and compact cars had been updated or replaced with hatchback models.

Hatchbacks were the mainstay of manufacturers' [[D-segment]] offerings in Europe in the 1990s (they were already popular in the 1980s) and until the late 2000s. It was common for manufacturers to offer the same D-segment model in three different body styles: a 4-door sedan, a 5-door hatchback, and a 5-door station wagon. Such models included the [[Ford Mondeo]], the [[Mazda 626]]/[[Mazda6]], the [[Nissan Primera]], the [[Opel Vectra]]/[[Opel Insignia|Insignia]], and the [[Toyota Carina]]/[[Toyota Avensis|Avensis]]. There were also models in this market segment available only as a 5-door hatchback or a 4-door sedan, and models available only as a 5-door hatchback or a 5-door station wagon. Often the hatchback and the sedan shared the same wheelbase and the same overall length, and the full rear overhang length of a conventional sedan trunk was retained on the five-door hatchback version of the car.

The 1989–2000 [[Citroën XM]] and second-generation [[Skoda Superb#Second generation (B6, Typ 3T; 2008–2015)|Skoda Superb]] (2008–2015) are cars that blur the line between hatchbacks and sedans. They feature an innovative "Twindoor" trunk lid. It can be opened like in a sedan, using the hinges located below the rear glass; or together with the rear glass, like in a hatchback, using the hinges at the roof.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/q2Ek25kwTqY Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20200426112027/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2Ek25kwTqY&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2Ek25kwTqY |title=2014 Skoda Superb facelift - Twindoor working - Variable fifth door opening |date=11 July 2014 |via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

[[Audi]] and [[BMW]] introduced hatchbacks in 2009, but marketed them as "Sportback" (Audi) or "Gran Turismo"/"Gran Coupe" (BMW).

In the 2010s hatchback versions became available on luxury cars such as the [[BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo]], [[Porsche Panamera]], and [[Audi A7]] while the Skoda Octavia was always available as a hatchback. Meanwhile, three-door hatchbacks have seen a fall in popularity, compared with 5-door models. This has led to many models no longer being offered in 3-door body styles, for example, the [[Audi A3]] and [[Renault Clio]].

{{clear}}
===North America===
{{Multiple image | align = right | direction = vertical | width = 190
| image1 = 1970 AMC Gremlin all original finished in red with white stripe 232 auto AC at 2021 AMO meet 03of15.jpg
| caption1 = 1970 [[AMC Gremlin]] with glass hatch open
| image2 = Ford Pinto runabout (1).jpg
| caption2 = 1971 [[Ford Pinto|Ford Pinto Runabout]]
| image3 = 1973 Chevrolet Vega Hatchback.jpg
| caption3 = 1973 [[Chevrolet Vega]]
| image4 = Flickr - DVS1mn - 74 AMC Hornet (2).jpg
| caption4 = 1974 [[AMC Hornet]] hatchback with factory mini-camper accessory 
}}

In 1970, [[American Motors Corporation]] (AMC) released the first North American [[subcompact car]] since the 1953-1961 [[Nash Metropolitan]], the [[AMC Gremlin]].<ref>{{cite web |title=The Spirit Is Still Alive: American Motors Corporation 1954-1987 |url= https://www.allpar.com/threads/the-spirit-is-still-alive-american-motors-corporation-1954-1987.229785/#post-1085223883 |first=Chad |last=Quella |website=allpar.com |date=16 November 2020 |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> Although the Gremlin has the appearance of a hatchback, it is frequently called a [[Kammback]] coupe instead,<ref>{{cite web |title=History of the Gremlin and {{as written|i|'ts [sic]}} Unique Birth |url= http://gremlinx.com/a-brief-history-of-the-amc-gremlin/ |website=gremlinx.com |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180923152338/http://gremlinx.com/a-brief-history-of-the-amc-gremlin/ |archive-date=23 September 2018 |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> with only its rear window being an upwards opening hatch, that gives access to the rear cargo space.<ref>{{cite web |title=Do Not Feed After Midnight: The AMC Gremlin |url= https://ateupwithmotor.com/model-histories/amc-gremlin/ |website=ateupwithmotor.com |date=8 April 2008 |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> The Gremlin was based on the [[AMC Hornet]], but its abrupt hatchback rear end cut the car's overall length from {{convert|179|to|161|in|mm}}. AMC added a hatchback version to its larger [[compact car|compact-sized]] Hornet line for the 1973 model year.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Lamm |first=Michael |title=AMC: Hornet hatchback leads the lineup |magazine=Popular Mechanics |volume=138 |issue=4 |pages=118–202 |date=October 1972 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=VNQDAAAAMBAJ&q=AMC+Hornet+hatchback&pg=PA118 |via=Google Books |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> The design and fold-down rear seat more than doubled cargo space and the Hornet was claimed to be the "first compact hatchback" manufactured by U.S. automaker.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://amchornet.com/1973_AMC_Hornet.html |title=1973 AMC Hornet |website=amchornet.com |access-date=2 March 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120731072435/http://amchornet.com/1973_AMC_Hornet.html |archive-date=31 July 2012 }}</ref> The 1975 [[AMC Pacer|Pacer]] featured a rear door or hatchback.<ref>{{cite book|last=Wilson |first=Paul Carroll |title=Chrome dreams: automobile styling since 1893 |year=1976 |publisher=Chilton Book |isbn=978-0-8019-6352-0 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=92VMACmtHMcC&q=Like+recent+European+variations+of+the+theme,+the+Pacer+had+a+rear+door+or+hatchback |page=303 |via=Google Books |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> A longer model with a wagon-type configuration was added in 1977 with its large rear "hatch" as one of the car's three doors, all having different sizes.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=AMC Pacer Wagon (advertisement) |magazine=Popular Science |date=November 1976 |volume=209 |issue=5 |pages=1–2 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=GgEAAAAAMBAJ&q=AMC+Pacer+Wagon+hatch&pg=PP2 |via=Google Books |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref> The 1979 [[AMC Spirit]] was available in two designs, a "sedan" with a rear lift up window and a semi-fastback "liftback" version.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Witzenburg |first=Gary |title=Driving the '79 American Motors models |magazine=Popular Mechanics |date=October 1978 |volume=150 |issue=4 |pages=114, 115, 164, 166, 168 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=4M4DAAAAMBAJ&q=AMC+Spirit+hatchback&pg=PA114 |via=Google Books |access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref>

[[General Motors]]' first hatchback model was the [[Chevrolet Vega]], introduced in September 1970. Over a million Vega hatchbacks were produced for the 1971–1977 model years accounting for about half of the Vega's total production.<ref>h-body.org</ref> The Vega hatchback was also rebadged and sold as the 1973–1977 [[Chevrolet Vega#Pontiac Astre|Pontiac Astre]], 1978 [[Chevrolet Vega#Chevy Monza 'S' & Monza Wagon|Chevrolet Monza S]], 1975–1980 [[Buick Skyhawk]], 1975–1980 [[Oldsmobile Starfire#1975-1980|Oldsmobile Starfire]] and 1977–1980 [[Pontiac Sunbird]].

In 1974, the larger [[Chevrolet Chevy II / Nova#Fourth generation (1975–1979)|Chevrolet Nova]] became available in a hatchback body style. The Nova hatchback was also rebadged as the [[Chevrolet Nova|Chevrolet Concours]], [[Pontiac Ventura]], [[Pontiac Phoenix]], [[Oldsmobile Omega]], [[Buick Apollo]], and [[Buick Skylark]]. In 1980, General Motors released its first front-wheel drive hatchback models, the [[Chevrolet Citation]] and [[Pontiac Phoenix]].

Both AMC and GM offered a dealer accessory that turned their compact hatchback models into low-cost recreational vehicles.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Hatchback Hutch offered econo-camping across the compact fleet |url= https://www.hagerty.com/media/archived/hatchback-hutch/ |publisher=Hagerty |access-date=15 September 2020 |date=17 October 2016}}</ref> An example is the Mini-Camper Kit for the AMC Hornet, a low-priced canvas tent that converted an open hatchback into a camping compartment with room for sleeping.<ref>{{cite web |last=Strohl |first=Daniel |title=From the Hemmings Nation Flickr pool - the Hornet hutchback |url= https://www.hemmings.com/stories/2012/07/26/from-the-hemmings-nation-flickr-pool-the-hornet-hutchback |publisher=Hemmings |date=26 July 2012 |access-date=15 September 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last =Moncur |first=Laura |title=AMC Hornet Camping Tent |url= http://www.starling-travel.com/2015/08/03/amc-hornet-camping-tent/ |work=Starling Travel |date=3 August 2015 |access-date=15 September 2020}}</ref> The "Mini-Camper" was a weatherproof covering that fitted over the roof section from the B-pillar back to the rear bumper that was easy to set up.<ref>{{cite book |last=Cranswick |first=Marc |title=The Cars of American Motors: An Illustrated History |date=2012 |publisher=McFarland |isbn=978-0-7864-4672-8 |page=220 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=20kjDQAAQBAJ&dq=Hornet+hatch%27s+camping-tent+feature!+Hornet+hatchback%27s+%E2%80%9CMini-Camper%E2%80%9D+option+brought+a+weatherproof+covering+that+fitted+over+the+roof+section+from&pg=PA220 |access-date=15 September 2020}}</ref>

[[Ford Motor Company]]'s first hatchback was the [[Ford Pinto]] Runabout, introduced in 1971.<ref>{{cite book |last=Gunnell |first=John |title=Standard Catalog of American Cars, 1946-1975 |date=1982 |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=978-0-87341-027-4 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=joFTAAAAMAAJ&q=1971+Ford+Pinto+runabout |access-date=21 July 2019}}</ref> The Pinto-based 1974-1978 [[Ford Mustang (second generation)|Ford Mustang II]] was offered as a hatchback. The body style was continued for the redesigned [[Ford Fox platform|Fox platform]]-based 1979 [[Ford Mustang (third generation)|third generation Mustang]] and the [[Mercury Capri]] derivative. For 1981, Ford offered hatchback versions of its sub-compact [[Ford Escort (North America)|Escort]] and the badge-engineered [[Mercury Lynx]], which were now front-wheel drive. Two-seat hatchback derivatives were introduced for 1982, the [[Ford EXP]] and the Mercury LN-7.

[[Chrysler Corporation]]'s first hatchbacks (and first [[front-wheel drive]] cars) were the 1978 [[Dodge Omni|Dodge Omni / Plymouth Horizon]] models, which were based on the French [[Simca-Talbot Horizon]].<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Lund |first=Robert |title=Driving the Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon |magazine=Popular Mechanics |date=January 1978 |volume=149 |issue=1 |pages=64–65, 136 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=fM8DAAAAMBAJ&q=Dodge+Omni+hatchback&pg=PA64 |access-date=2 March 2014}}</ref> These were followed by the 3-door hatchback [[Dodge Omni 024|Dodge Omni 024 / Plymouth Horizon TC3]] which were later renamed [[Dodge Charger]] and [[Plymouth Turismo]].

{{clear}}
===Japan===
[[File:Honda Civic RS rear.jpg|thumb|1974-1975 [[Honda Civic]] RS]]

The first Japanese hatchbacks were the 1972 [[Honda Civic (first generation)|Honda Civic]], [[Nissan Sunny#B210 (1973–1977)|Nissan Sunny]], and [[Nissan Cherry]].{{citation needed|date=June 2018}} The Civic and Cherry had [[front-wheel drive]] powertrains, which later became the common configuration for a hatchback. Along with the Honda Civic, other Japanese hatchback models included the [[Nissan Pulsar]], [[Toyota Corolla]], and [[Suzuki Swift]].

Almost all Japanese [[Kei car]]s ("city cars") use a hatchback body style, to maximize cargo capacity given the overall vehicle size is limited by the regulations applicable to these vehicles. Kei cars include the [[Mitsubishi Minica]], [[Honda Life]], [[Suzuki Fronte]], [[Subaru Vivio]], and [[Daihatsu Mira]].

{{clear}}
===USSR===
[[File:Lada Samara 1500 1993 (15799320486).jpg|thumb|[[Lada Samara]] 1500]]

The first Soviet hatchback was the rear-wheel drive [[Izh Comby|IZh 2125 Kombi]], which entered production in 1973.<ref>{{cite book |last=Thompson |first=Andy |title=Cars of the Soviet Union: The Definitive History |date=2008 |publisher=Haynes Publishing |isbn=978-1-84425-483-5 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=1xQoAQAAIAAJ&q=Izh+2125+hatchback |access-date=21 July 2019}}</ref> This was followed only in the 1980s by the front-wheel drive [[Lada Samara]] in 1984, the [[Aleko|Moskvitch 2141/Aleko]] in 1986, and [[ZAZ Tavria]] in 1987.

{{clear}}
=== Brazil ===
[[File:Chevrolet Onix 20150814-DSC05650.JPG|thumb|[[Chevrolet Onix]]]]

In 2014, four of the top five selling models in Brazil were hatchbacks.<ref>{{cite web |title=The 30 Best-Selling Car Models in Brazil |url= https://thebrazilbusiness.com/article/the-30-best-selling-car-models-in-brazil |website=thebrazilbusiness.com |date= 2 March 2015 |access-date=12 June 2018}}</ref> However, in the 1980s and 1990s, hatchbacks were less popular than sedans, leading manufacturers to develop subcompact sedan models for the Brazilian market, for example, the [[Fiat Duna|Fiat Premio]] and sedan versions of the [[Opel Corsa]] and [[Ford Fiesta]].

{{clear}}
===India===
[[File:Maruti Suzuki Swift 2098.JPG|thumb|[[Suzuki Swift|Maruti Swift]] hatchback in India

]]
The vehicle is classified as a [[B-segment]] marque in the European single market, a segment referred to as a supermini in the British Isles. Prior to this, the "Swift" nameplate had been applied to the rebadged [[Suzuki Cultus]] in numerous export markets since 1984 and for the Japanese-market [[Suzuki Ignis]] since 2000. The Swift became its own model in 2004. Currently, the Swift is positioned between [[Suzuki Ignis|Ignis]] and [[Suzuki Baleno (WB)|Baleno]] in Suzuki's global 

===Australia===
[[File:1976-1978 Holden LX Torana SS hatchback 04.jpg|thumb|[[Holden Torana#LX|Holden Torana SS]] (LX) hatchback]]

Holden produced the [[Holden Torana|Torana Hatchback]] from 1976 to 1980 across the LX and UC generations. Up until recent years, buyers in Australia have preferred the station wagon body style, with the big three Australian manufacturers; [[Holden]], [[Ford Australia]], and [[Chrysler Valiant|Chrysler Australia]] all producing station wagon models of their sedan models. Australia started moving to hatchbacks partially in the mid-1990s with relatively cheap offerings from [[Hyundai Motor Company|Hyundai]] and [[Honda]]. Australia now sells mostly hatchbacks, after the last domestic-built wagon, the [[Holden Commodore (VF)|Holden Commodore Sportwagon]] ceased production in October 2017.

The [[Ford Laser]] hatchback was produced in Australia. Nissan produced the [[Nissan Pulsar|Pulsar]] and [[Nissan Pintara|Pintara]] hatchbacks and Mitsubishi built the [[Mitsubishi Mirage|Colt]] hatch. Toyota produced the Corolla hatchback, and more recently Holden produced the Cruze Hatchback.  
{{clear}}

==See also==
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}}
* [[Trunk (car)]]
* [[Hot hatch]]
* [[Fastback]]
* [[Shooting brake]]
{{div col end}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{Wiktionary-inline}}
* {{Commons-inline|Hatchbacks}}
* {{Commons-inline|Liftbacks}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Portal bar|Cars|Environment|}}
{{Automobile configuration}}

[[Category:Hatchbacks| ]]
[[Category:Car classifications]]
[[Category:Car body styles]]