Hatchbacks are popular for their versatile cargo areas and affordability. But some small hatchback models can feel cramped, especially for rear passengers. If you need a more spacious hatchback, this guide compares dimensions and passenger volume across top affordable models to identify the hatchbacks with the most interior cabin room and cargo space.
Factors That Impact Hatchback Passenger and Cargo Room
Several key measurements determine how spacious a hatchback feels:
- Legroom — Distance between the front and rear seats. Determines rear seat comfort.
- Headroom — Vertical space from seat to ceiling. Affects comfort for tall passengers.
- Hip room — Width between the left and right seats. Allows space for child seats.
- Cargo volume — Total trunk and rear storage space. Impacts hauling ability.
- Seating capacity — Number of seats. More seats can mean more passenger room.
- Second row space — Rear seat legroom and amenities. Priority for family buyers.
Prioritize models with dimensions that align with your needs for comfortably transporting passengers and gear.
The Most Spacious Affordable Small Hatchbacks
In the small hatchback category, these models offer the most combined passenger and cargo volume:
Kia Rio Hatchback
- 87 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 17.4 cu ft cargo volume
- Best rear seat legroom and headroom
Hyundai Accent Hatchback
- 86 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 19.4 cu ft cargo volume
- Second row folds fully flat
Toyota Yaris Hatchback
- 85 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 17.8 cu ft cargo volume
- Roof rails expand cargo options
The Kia Rio tops the list with the most spacious cabin in an affordable small hatchback. The Accent and Yaris are also more roomy than other models in this size class.
Top Midsize Hatchbacks for Passenger and Cargo Space
Moving up to midsize, these hatchbacks offer abundant room:
Honda Civic Hatchback
- 88.6 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 25.7 cu ft cargo volume
- Versatile cargo configurations
Kia Soul
- 101 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 24.2 cu ft cargo volume
- Tall roofline for ample headroom
Volkswagen Golf Hatchback
- 93 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 22.8 cu ft cargo volume
- Spacious second row and cargo opening
The Kia Soul takes top marks in the midsize class with its unique tall, box-like shape providing great headroom and cargo versatility.
Large Hatchback Options with Biggest Passenger and Trunk Space
These sizable hatchbacks offer near minivan-levels of room:
Subaru Outback
- 105 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 32.5 cu ft cargo volume
- Optional power liftgate
VW Golf Sportwagen
- 101.9 cu ft passenger volume (seats 5)
- 30.4 cu ft cargo volume
- Long roof provides extra cargo room
Mercedes Benz AMG GLA35
- 51.7 cu ft front row volume (seats 5)
- 15.4 cu ft cargo volume
- Performance luxury model with spacious cabin
While firmly in the SUV category, the Subaru Outback wins out with generous legroom and headroom paired with a very large cargo hold for a hatchback.
Hatchback Rear Seat Dimensions Comparison
To evaluate comfort for passengers, legroom and headroom are key:
ModelRear LegroomRear HeadroomKia Soul39.1 in39.6 inHonda Civic36.0 in37.4 inToyota Yaris31.5 in36.6 inHyundai Accent33.3 in37.3 in
Aim for at least 36 inches of legroom and 38 inches of headroom for adequate adult rear passenger comfort over longer drives.
Hatchback Cargo Volume Comparison
For maximum hauling utility, these models offer the most cargo space:
ModelCargo VolumeSubaru Outback32.5 cu ftVW Golf Sportwagen30.4 cu ftKia Soul24.2 cu ftHonda Civic25.7 cu ftHyundai Accent19.4 cu ft
Wagons like the Outback and Golf Sportwagen offer SUV-like cargo room. The Kia Soul and Honda Civic also beat out other standard hatchbacks.
Tips For Maximizing Hatchback Cargo Space
Some hacks for fitting more gear in a hatchback:
- Fold rear seats fully flat
- Use plastic bins/crates to optimize space
- Install roof storage rack
- Remove parcel shelf for large items
- Use a cargo top carrier bag
- Pack carefully and utilize vertical space
Measure your largest routine items to ensure your hatchback has the dimensions to handle them.
FAQs
Are there any 3 row hatchback models?
Yes, a few hatchbacks like the Dodge Journey offer a very small 3rd row option. But most are only available with 1 or 2 rows.
Which hatchbacks have the most legroom?
The Kia Soul has the most front and rear legroom for taller passengers at over 39 inches. The Honda Civic and Subaru Outback also rate highly.
Do bigger hatchbacks have more cargo space?
Yes, cargo volume increases along with the exterior dimensions. Models like the Outback provide over double the cubic feet of tiny hatchbacks.
Which is the fastest hatchback?
The Mercedes Benz AMG GLA35 is the highest performance hatchback, with 382 horsepower and a 155 mph top speed.
Are wagons considered hatchbacks?
Yes, wagon bodies are a crossover between hatchbacks and SUVs. They offer hatch-like cargo access with more space.
If you require both generous passenger space and versatile cargo capacity, a larger hatchback or wagon offers advantages over cramped subcompact models. Refer to interior dimensions and expert reviews to find the roomiest hatchback for your needs.
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