I’m often asked by readers which petrol family hatchback should I buy? In 2018 I’m finding that many readers are facing a similar dilemma: they are all looking for an efficient petrol hatchback car. I haven’t included every petrol hatchback on the Irish market but these are the ones that I would definitely be checking out if I was in the market for a new car.
1. Skoda Octavia 1.0TSI
From €21,310
The Skoda Octavia is one of Ireland’s favourite cars and it’s no surprise: the car is priced so well considering how spacious it is. This car is really great value and it’s available now with the Volkswagen Group’s new 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine with 115hp.

2. Honda Civic 1.0 VTEC Turbo
From €23,750
The new Honda Civic features an excellent 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine with 127hp. The Civic is spacious inside with a large boot and it’s great fun to drive too.

3. Peugeot 308 1.2 PureTech
From €20,995
The Peugeot 308 range has just been facelifted and features Peugeot’s award winning 1.2-litre PureTech turbo petrol engine with 110hp or 130hp. The 308 is also available as an ‘SW’ (estate) offering more boot space and rear legroom than the hatchback.

4. Volkswagen Golf 1.0TSI 110hp
From €23,095
The Volkswagen Golf is Ireland’s bestselling hatchback for good reason. The new 1.0-litre Golf with 110hp is an absolute joy to drive.

5. Toyota Auris 1.2 Petrol
From €24,250
Toyota is well-known for its hybrid range, but it still makes some very good petrol cars. The Toyota Auris is available with a 1.2-litre petrol engine with 116hp.

6. Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost
From €25,175
The Ford Focus is due for replacement this year but it’s still selling very well in Ireland. The Focus 1.0-litre turbo petrol EcoBoost with 125hp is fun to drive while also being a reasonable all rounder in other areas too.

7. Kia Cee’d 1.0 T-GDi
From €22,999
Kia’s family hatchback goes a little under the radar but the Cee’d offers a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine with 120hp in the sporty GT Line trim, which is well equipped with sporty features.

8. Opel Astra 1.0 Turbo
From €21,750
The former European Car of the Year winner has a quality and connected interior with sweet handling, and the Astra 1.0-litre turbo petrol is smooth and peppy with 105hp.

Caroline Kidd