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All the new hatchbacks that launched in South Africa in 2023

Over the last 12 months, the hatchback segment in South Africa was bolstered by no fewer than 15 new models.

Hatchbacks are extremely popular in our market so it’s no surprise that a wide variety of automakers have introduced options into this segment in 2023, with a few more scheduled to arrive in 2024.

It was a big year for hot hatchbacks as we got four new units that entered into this category namely the fifth-generation VW Golf R, sixth-generation Honda Civic Type R, first-ever Toyota GR Corolla, and last-ever Renault Megane RS 300 Trophy.

The affordable end of the market also saw some love with the debut of the new Hyundai Grand i10, facelifted Mazda 2, Opel Corsa Lite, Toyota Vitz, and VW Polo Vivo GT.

Buyers looking for a premium hatch gained access to the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class over the last year, as well as the updated Mazda 3 and the limited-edition Mini Clubman Final Edition, of which only 10 units were earmarked for South Africa.

Not to be outdone, GWM made a splash when it released the new Ora 03 in the final weeks of November, which is now officially the most affordable battery-electric car in South Africa at a starting price of R686,950.

New hatchbacks launched in 2023

The list below shows all the new hatchbacks that launched in South Africa in 2023.

Click on the underlined links for more information.


GWM Ora 03


Honda Civic Type R


Honda Fit Hybrid


Hyundai Grand i10


Mazda 2


Mazda 3


Mercedes-Benz A-Class


Mini Clubman Final Edition


Opel Corsa Lite


Renault Megane RS 300 Trophy


Toyota GR Corolla


Toyota Vitz


Toyota Vitz X-Cite


VW Golf R


VW Polo Vivo GT


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