Regular contributor Nicholas Pillay tries to answer a question that many of us have pondered: Where Have All The Hatchbacks Gone?

Once a dominant force on South African roads, hatchbacks are starting to become an endangered species. The days when vehicles such as the Volkswagen Golf, Suzuki Swift, and Ford Fiesta sold by the ship-load have passed. Instead they have given way to the new king of the sales charts: the compact SUV. South Africans are increasingly choosing models such the Volkswagen T-Cross, Suzuki Fronx, and Chery Tiggo 4 Pro over traditional hatchbacks. But where have all the hatchbacks gone, and why are we shifting our attention to compact SUVs?

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The Rise of Compact SUVs

It’s hard to ignore the massive influx of compact SUVs and crossovers on the South African market. Every major manufacturer seems to be launching models in this category. From affordable offerings such as the Suzuki Fronx to premium options such as the Volkswagen T-Cross, there’s a compact SUV for every budget and taste.

Even Chinese manufacturers such as Chery and Haval have been focusing exclusively on SUVs, with the Chery Tiggo and Haval Jolion becoming a regular sight on our roads. This shift in consumer preferences has left hatchbacks, which were once the go-to choice for budget-conscious drivers, trailing in the dust.

Why Do We Love Compact SUVs?

There are a few reasons why compact SUVs have taken over the market. First and foremost, they offer the elevated driving position that so many drivers prefer. You feel higher off the ground, with a better view of the road, which gives a sense of safety and control.

Compact SUVs also provide more versatility. The higher ground clearance and increased cargo space make them more practical for family use, road trips, or even just navigating South Africa’s often uneven roads. And with fuel-efficient engines becoming more common, many compact SUVs offer fuel economy comparable to hatchbacks, making them an attractive option.

Hatchbacks Are Becoming Too Expensive

One of the biggest challenges for hatchbacks is that they are no longer the affordable option they once were. The iconic Volkswagen Golf, which used to be the benchmark of affordable performance, is no longer available in South Africa in ‘regular’ guise. Volkswagen only sells the Golf GTI and Golf R, both of which come with hefty price tags. That’s over R800 000 for the GTI and close to a million rand for the R. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Polo has taken over as the hatchback of choice for budget-conscious South Africans, as it fits the needs of the market more comfortably.

Similarly, other performance hatchbacks have also seen their prices skyrocket. The Hyundai i30N, for example, also hovers over R800 000, while the Audi A3, once considered an entry-level luxury hatch, now starts at around R720 000 for the base version. These price points are simply out of reach for many South Africans, pushing buyers toward more affordable compact SUVs, which offer similar tech and features at a lower price point.

The SUV-Only Strategy from China

Chinese manufacturers have leaned heavily into the SUV market, avoiding hatchbacks altogether. Brands such as Haval and Chery have built their entire South African line-up around SUVs, from compact models to larger family cars. Their SUVs come at competitive prices, with premium features that make them extremely attractive to budget-conscious buyers looking for more value.

Conclusion: The SUV Takeover

In South Africa, the shift toward compact SUVs makes sense. These models offer the practicality, tech, and affordability that many consumers now prioritise. With traditional hatchbacks becoming too expensive, and compact SUVs offering more features at lower prices, it’s clear why more people are making the switch. While hot hatches such as the Golf GTI and Hyundai i30N still have their place, they’ve become niche products. The compact SUV, on the other hand, seems here to stay.