| • Science | • People | • Locations | • Timeline |
Technically speaking, SUVs, station wagons and minivans can also be classified as hatchbacks. However, the term hatchback is typically used in reference to small economy cars. Hatchbacks are also differentiated by having a parcel shelf: a rigid shelf covering the cargo space that is hinged behind the rear seats and lifts with the hatch.
Saab often use the term combi coupé (or 'Waggon back' in the USA) for their take on the concept. Even some typical-looking sedans (saloons) have hatchbacks, such as the Mazda Mazda6 and Saab 9000.
Small cars often incorporate a hatchback to make the best use of available space. Hatchbacks are often truncated, with the hatch nearly vertical, to reduce the car's footprint. This adds to the car's manoeuvrability, an important consideration in countries where small streets and traffic congestion are factors. Hatchbacks frequently include fold-down rear seats, which enable a substantial portion of the interior space to be used as a cargo area.
Many sports cars are also designed using a variation of hatchback design, sometimes called a liftback. Here, the hatchback is angled down from the front-passenger's roof, over a small rear seat, and smoothly integrated into the tail of the car. This often improves aerodynamic performance, resulting in a reduced drag coefficient.
High performance variants of typical family hatchbacks are now common, known as hot hatchbacks.