Cheapest hatchbacks from every brand in South Africa – starting at R174,900

 ·6 Jan 2024

Hatchbacks have proven they still have what it takes to earn a decent market share in South Africa, even as SUVs and crossovers continue to take up more attention from automakers and consumers alike.

Hatchbacks are versatile vehicles that offer practicality, affordability, and excellent fuel efficiency, making them ideal for city driving and everyday use.

They are generally priced lower than other car types but offer similar features and performance. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and efficient vehicle.

In addition to their affordability, hatchbacks are also well-suited for the country’s narrow and congested roads. With their compact size, they are easy to manoeuvre through traffic and park in tight spaces, making them a practical choice for urban dwellers.

Another factor contributing to the popularity of hatchbacks in South Africa is their fuel efficiency. With rising fuel prices, many consumers are looking for vehicles that offer good mileage and lower fuel consumption. Hatchbacks typically have smaller engines, which means they use less fuel than larger vehicles.

18 carmakers in South Africa offer at least one hatchback, with a varied selection of engines ranging from high-performance petrol units to battery-electrics and fuel-conscious diesel and hybrid systems.

This variety, combined with more budget-friendly prices, has helped the compact car type stay competitive in today’s market.

The cheapest hatchback in South Africa – the Suzuki S-Presso – starts at R174,900, while the most expensive – the Mercedes-Benz A-Class – costs R796,559.

The list below shows the cheapest hatchbacks from every car brand in South Africa. If a brand is not listed, it does not have a hatchback model on the local market.


Abarth 500

  • Starting price: R579,900
  • Number of models: 4

Audi A1 Sportback

  • Starting price: R487,300
  • Number of models: 5

BMW 1 Series

  • Starting price: R691,072
  • Number of models: 9

Citroen C3

  • Starting price: R374,900
  • Number of models: 1

Fiat 500

  • Starting price: R265,900
  • Number of models: 4

GWM Ora 03

  • Starting price: R686,950
  • Number of models: 4

Honda Fit

  • Starting price: R355,600
  • Number of models: 4

Hyundai Grand i10

  • Starting price: R234,500
  • Number of models: 6

Kia Picanto

  • Starting price: R227,995
  • Number of models: 15

Mazda 2

  • Starting price: R307,100
  • Number of models: 4

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

  • Starting price: R796,559
  • Number of models: 2

Mini One Hatch

  • Starting price: R474,009
  • Number of models: 11

Opel Corsa

  • Starting price: R325,900
  • Number of models: 4

Peugeot 208

  • Starting price: R334,900
  • Number of models: 4

Renault Kwid

  • Starting price: R192,999
  • Number of models: 5

Suzuki S-Presso

  • Starting price: R174,900
  • Number of models: 6


Toyota Vitz

  • Starting price: R189,900
  • Number of models: 5

VW Polo Vivo

  • Starting price: R259,400
  • Number of models: 5

Read: 9 automatic cars you can buy under R250,000 in South Africa right now

Show comments
Subscribe to our daily newsletter