Is The Hatchback Making A Comeback?

The next shape in cars comes close to how most people might like to chisel their own bodies — broad shoulders and a shapely rear end.

Nissan's Infiniti just unveiled its EX35 luxury crossover that points to the look of things to come in automotive design, a small hatchback that blurs the differences between SUV and sedan.

Revealed at an automobile gathering south of San Francisco, EX35 stands tall and confident from the front like an SUV. But the roofline arcs to a slope over the back seat and cargo area.

Think of it as an SUV without the U. It's sporty. And it's certainly a vehicle. But utilitarian? Nah, not really, not without the ability to carry more.
Read Article

monkeyrun - 8/28/2007 12:10:29 PM

+3 Boost

What comeback are you talking about.

Hatchback never went away (aka out of style).

Well unless you only concept of "the world" is the US.

rok_altima - 8/28/2007 12:32:56 PM

+2 Boost

The everday vehicle in the rest of the world is pretty much a hatchback or MPV. Sedans are the most popular in Canada, U.S. and Japan. If only people would realize how versatile they are.

JUGNU - 8/28/2007 3:18:00 PM

+1 Boost

agree with u rok.

Everyday vehicles in the rest of the world are mainly Suzuki small hatches or Japaneese Kei cars,VW Golf,Station wagons...etc

JUGNU

1970toyotamarc - 8/28/2007 3:33:50 PM

+1 Boost

This trend returned to the US in about 200-2001, with the Focus ZX5, Matrix/Vibe, Elantra, Malibu Maxx, Rio Cinco, and many more. USA Today (the McNewspaper) is a little late to the story.

I'm on my second hatch now, having traded the Matrix for the Prius. I will never go back to a four door.

M35MT - 8/28/2007 4:44:09 PM

+1 Boost

Mazdaspeed3 here. Never liked hatches. But I like this one....maybe its the 'speed' part.

t_bone - 8/29/2007 12:45:27 AM

+1 Boost

The irony with SUV's is they never had much "U" anyway. I remember an early report about the Durango where the reviewer was complaining that there wasn't even enough room in the back for his groceries. And some of the most cramped, uncomfortable rides I've ever had were in the back of SUV's.

People buy them for the "fashion" statement, just like tattoos. Hopefully both of these lousy things from the 90's will finally go away by the end of this decade.