Let's be honest, two-door cars look a lot better than sedans. Many would agree with this, but would also add that cars are coupes and cost a lot more than sedans. There is some truth in this, but in order to become the owner of a stylish coupe, you do not have to rob a bank, since even in this segment there are inexpensive models that even a middle manager will be able to afford.
We have a list of the 10 most affordable and affordable two-door cars with a starting price of just under $ 26K. We had to draw a strict line and exclude hatchback cars such as the Scion tC or. However, the list is still varied and you will find many coupés in both large and small sizes. Each one has an attractive appearance and can provide dynamic driving.
10 . SUBARU BRZ PREMIUM. PRICE $ 25 495
At a low starting price, the Subaru BRZ offers excellent handling but little power. Starting at $ 25,495, and pushing the Dodge Challenger out of 10th place in our top, the car has only 200 horsepower provided by a four-cylinder in-line boxer engine. The BRZ is lightweight, making it equally powerful on the road as well as on the track. Thanks to its rear-wheel drive, the BRZ is a perfectly balanced car, although who can argue that it also has a very attractive appearance? The base BRZ is good enough but doesn't offer much of what its sister model FR-S has to offer. However, you will find HID headlights, touchscreen radio with navigation, and LED daytime running lights as standard. Previously, we have already covered this model in the materials: "" and "", so if you want to familiarize yourself with it in more detail, you are welcome.
9 . SCION FR-S. PRICE $ 25,255 
The famous Subaru BRZ twin brother is only a few hundred US dollars cheaper and has fewer features. It is the perfect choice for those drivers looking for more driving fun than anything else. The Scion FR-S features an optimal vehicle suspension package that makes driving more fun than driving a Subaru. This is another reason besides cost that makes Scion more attractive to potential buyers.
eight . NISSAN ALTIMA COUPE. PRICE $ 25 230 
The next inexpensive coupe is the Nissan Altima, which many have forgotten, and in vain, Nissan still sells this car. It costs a little less than the Scion, and for $ 25,230 the buyer gets a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower. Thanks to the Nissan Xtronic CVT system, the Altima is a fairly economical car in terms of fuel, and invests in 10 liters per 100 kilometers when driving in the city and 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers when driving on the highway. Not bad for a car in desperate need of an upgrade. Rumor has it that Nissan will discontinue production of the Altima Coupe, which is not surprising given the model's low sales.
7. HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE 2.0 T. PRICE $ 24 250 
Those looking for a rear-wheel drive vehicle that delivers the same driving pleasure as the Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S, those looking for more power from a car for less money, take a closer look at the Hyundai Genesis Coupe. Not only is this car cheaper than the Scion FR-S, but it also has 74 more horsepower than its rival. The base Genesis coupe lacks a limited slip differential, which means this car loses out in handling compared to the Toyobaru twins, but in a straight line, the Genesis can do a great job.
6. HONDA ACCORD LX-S. PRICE $ 23 350 
Yes, it really is, for $ 23,350 you can become the owner of a coupe with efficient fuel consumption... The name of this car is Honda Accord Coupe. The car boasts not only its price, but also a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 185 horsepower. All-wheel drive AccordCoupe shows a combined fuel consumption of 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers... In addition, as for a coupe, the Accord is a fairly roomy car, it can comfortably accommodate not only the passengers of the front car seats, but also the rear ones.
5 . CHEVROLET CAMARO LS. PRICE $ 23 345 
For five dollars less than a Honda Accord, you could be the proud owner of a 323-horsepower Chevrolet Camaro. With its limited slip differential, the Camaro is the best sports car ever to drive, but slightly heavier than its siblings and in the shadow of the Camaro SS and ZL1. Nevertheless, thanks to the sensational blockbuster about robots from another planet, this inexpensive coupe is easily recognizable, every teenager would like to become the proud owner of Bumblebee. It is worth noting that the car commands respect not only of the younger generation, but also of people of a fairly mature age. You can read about the newer Chevrolet Camaro model on the pages of our car magazine.
4 . FORD MUSTANG. PRICE $ 22 200 
The last muscle car in our top 10 is a V-6-powered Ford Mustang that sends 305 ponies to the rear axle. If you can live with the lack of independent rear suspension, the Mustang is a surprisingly attractive vehicle that also delivers superb quality for just $ 22,000. While other Mustangs are powered by V-8 or turbocharged engines, this car's engine will make you feel the pleasure of driving the iconic American vehicle that will not hit your pocket.
3. HONDA CIVIC LX. PRICE $ 17,965 
While our list contains quite a few thrilling rear-wheel drive muscle cars and sports cars, our last three coupes are nowhere near as performance-oriented. At number three we present, with a starting price of $ 17,965. With a 1.8-liter engine, the compact coupe boasts 140 horsepower and 128 Nm of torque. These numbers may not sound impressive at all, but Honda has some really impressive fuel consumption figures - 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers in city driving and 6 liters per 100 kilometers when driving on the highway. The new Civic Coupe received the same updates in 2013 as sedans, which means the new model has better interior quality, decent soundproofing and a good list of standard car options that also include a rearview camera and Bluetooth.
2. HYUNDAI ELANTRA COUPE. PRICE $ 17,595 
The recently unveiled Hyundai Elantra is a contender for leadership in the compact coupe segment that has been dominated by Honda for years. In essence, this is the same Elantra, which has two fewer doors. However, the coupé model is much more attractive, primarily due to the smoother exterior lines and thoughtful elements of automotive design. The 1.8-liter engine with 148 horsepower helps the Elantra achieve an attractive fuel economy, 8.4 liters per 100 km in the city and 6.2 liters per 100 km on the highway. I would like to note that fog lights are included in the basic configuration of the Hyundai Elantra coupe.
one . FORTE KOUP EX. PRICE $ 17 400 
Number one among the most affordable coupes is the two-door version of the Kia Forte. The model is nearly $ 200 cheaper than the Hyundai Elantra coupe, but has a more aggressive exterior. Those, who is looking for the most affordable coupe must act quickly as the new Forte Koup is on its way. An updated coupe model was presented, but so far there has been no confirmation that the new model will have the same low price tag. Citing the fact that the car is now equipped with an all-new engine and a wider base package, which now includes LED headlights and an infotainment system, we can safely expect a price increase.
Three-door SUVs are especially popular among lovers of trophy-extreme.
These cars are a completely stand-alone model or a shortened version of the five-door SUV. Thanks to the short base and optimized geometric overhangs, their flotation is significantly increased with a lighter structure.
But in Everyday life such SUVs are not in great demand due to the small interior, therefore they are bought only by fans of extreme trips fans of models like the Ford Raptor and Land Rover Discovery.
In this regard, almost all SUV manufacturers have abandoned the production of cars with such a body, so the bulk of the proposals come from the secondary market, where you can buy a 3-door SUV in excellent condition with a range of up to 100 thousand km.
Classics of the genre. Since 1996, it has been produced in both 5 and 3-door versions. The fourth generation J150, which began production in 2009, offers a three-door version, equipped with permanent all-wheel drive, in-line 3.0 turbodiesel, developing 190 hp. With. and reaching 420 Nm of torque, as well as a 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed. automatic.
The official release of the version was discontinued in 2014 - after restyling, all Prado J150 models are produced exclusively in a 5-door version.
But there are enough offers on the used car market - you can find a car in good condition about 1.5 per million rubles... The price depends on the mileage and a number of other factors.
Mitsubishi pajero
Another "classic" model of a three-door frame SUV. Today, the fifth generation is on the assembly line, consisting exclusively of 5-door versions. But in the fourth, short-wheelbase Pajero made up a considerable part and, given that its production was discontinued in 2012, there are a lot of offers on the market.
These SUVs in our country were offered with 4WD (leading rear axle and plug-in front), mechanical and automatic transmission, and a wide range of power units:
- atmospheric diesel engines with a volume of 3.2 liters and 190 liters. With;
- turbodiesels 2.5 L (115 HP) and 3.2 L (165, 170 and 200 HP);
- gasoline V6 units of 3.0 l (178 hp) and 3.8 l (250 hp).
Now Mitsubishi Pajero with mileage up to 100,000 km in Russia can be purchased within 1.3–1.5 million rubles. in a good condition. The cost of a car depends on the mileage, year of manufacture, type and volume of the engine, transmission.
Despite the fact that since 2005 the Grand Vitara has lost a ladder-type frame and received a monocoque body, going into the category of crossovers, the first generation was full-fledged SUVs. By the way, among fans of extreme sports, the shortened version was very popular - with power units similar to the conventional version, it was slightly shorter and lighter, which ensured better cross-country ability and engine throttle response.
The Grand Vitara was equipped with economical in-line gasoline engines with a volume of 1.6 liters (94 and 107 hp), 2.0 liters (128 and 140 hp) and 2.5 liters (160 hp), as well as turbo diesel engines 2.0 liters per 90 liters. ... With. It had a permanent rear-wheel drive with a connected front axle, a mechanical 5-speed transmission with a transfer case or a 4-speed. automatic and powerful suspension.
These inexpensive and unpretentious SUVs are still popular in the secondary sector - a 2005 car with a 1.6 petrol engine and a manual transmission can be bought for 400-600 thousand rubles
Perhaps one of the few compact SUVs that is an independent three-door model, and not a shortened version of the 5-door body. These cars have been produced since 1970 and enjoy well-deserved popularity for their reliability, unpretentiousness, high cross-country ability and low price. In terms of dimensions, the Suzuki Jimny is comparable to the Niva Taiga, but it is better equipped and more comfortable. By the way, he is one of the few three-door jeeps that are still produced.
Suzuki Jimny is offered in the only configuration with rear-wheel drive (front-wheel drive is connected as needed), a 1.3-liter, 85-liter gasoline inline engine. With. and continuous bridges. But on the used car market, you can also buy a version with a 1.5 liter turbodiesel with a capacity of 65/86 liters. With. or a gasoline 80-horsepower 1.3 liter engine.
The price of the new Jimny is 1.1 million rubles.- but the "kid" is worth the money. Used car, depending on the mileage and release date, it will cost much less - from 300 thousand rubles and higher.
Jeep wrangler
Well, in the end, one cannot fail to mention the domestic classics - the three-door Niva. The SUV is currently produced in two versions - Lada 4 × 4 and Lada Urban... By the way, this is one of the few domestic cars readily purchased abroad - its low cost and excellent cross-country ability make it possible to successfully compete with more expensive jeeps from leading manufacturers.
The car is equipped with a 1.7 liter gasoline engine with a 5-speed manual. transmission and razdatka, capable of developing a power of 83 liters. With. and a moment of 129 Nm. The Urban version is distinguished by the installation of options, a more modern front end, a number of minor changes and a price - if the basic version of Lada 4 × 4 costs from 483 thousand rubles., then Urban will cost 546 thousand rubles. But if you need the most budgetary option for fishing and hunting trips, there are a lot of offers in the secondary market in the price segment from 100 thousand rubles.
With two rows of full-size seats, two doors and a trunk that is structurally separate from the passenger compartment. A type of sedan body.
The rear window on a two-door sedan is usually rigidly fixed in a frame, but on a number of models it could be lowered like door glass or tilted slightly for ventilation.
Doorways are usually 15-20% wider than in a four-door, in addition, the backrests of the front seats, as a rule, fold forward to facilitate passage to the rear row of seats.
With the same comfort and capacity, two-door sedans differ from four-door sedans by 30-50 kg less own weight, higher torsional rigidity and 5-10% lower price, which predetermined their popularity in the thirties and eighties of the twentieth century as budget modifications.
Two doors instead of four make it difficult to access the rear row of seats, but the driver and front passenger get into the two-door sedan, on the contrary, it is more convenient than into the four-door due to the widened door openings.
Spreading
Cars with this body were always very popular in the USA and Canada, but they were often found in Europe - especially in Germany and England - until the eighties, when they were supplanted by bodies like a three-door hatchback. In addition to being less expensive and safer, the traditional advantage of such a bodywork is that children in the rear cannot under any circumstances accidentally open the rear doors on the move, although the spread modern systems central locking of doors and lockable door locks on the rear doors (Child safety lock) partly cancels this advantage.
Currently, due to this, as well as worse than that of a four-door sedan or a three-door hatchback, functionality, this type of body is rare.
In North America in last years there is a tendency to rename two-door sedans as "coupé" (coupe) for marketing reasons, although the two-door sedan differs from the real two-door coupes with a capacity of 2 + 2 with a full rear two-three-seat passenger seat and a normal (not lowered) headroom in the rear of the roof ( the volume of the rear part of the passenger compartment is not less than 934 cm³).
Features of terminology
In the fifties - seventies in the United States it was customary to call many two-door cars without a B-pillar (hardtop) "coupes" regardless of the body configuration, nevertheless, in fact, there were a lot of two-door sedans among these cars.
In addition, until about the fifties, there was a body type called club coupe, which is essentially a two-door sedan in the most basic configuration with a lowered trim level, and very close to it business coupe, distinguished by a platform for cargo instead of a rear sofa.
Examples of two-door sedans
- Ford Model A Tudor (1927-1932);
- Ford Taunus (1976-1979)
- Cossacks of all serial models;
- Fiat 128 Rally (1971-1978);
- Fiat 131 Mirafiori 2-door (1974-1979); 1
- BMW E21 (1975-1983);
- BMW E30 (1982-1994);
- Toyota Platz / Echo 2-door Sedan (2001-2005);
- In a variant with this body type, almost all budget American car models were offered until the late 1970s - 1980s.
Sources and Notes
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Excerpt from the two-door sedan
- Well, yes, yes, give me some more rags.“If he manages to get things done, he can pay all the debts,” the militia continued about Rostov.
- A good old man, but very pauvre sire [bad]. And why do they live here for so long? They have long wanted to go to the village. Does Natalie seem to be well now? Julie asked Pierre with a sly smile.
“They are expecting a younger son,” said Pierre. - He entered Obolensky's Cossacks and went to Belaya Tserkov. A regiment is being formed there. And now they have transferred him to my regiment and are waiting every day. The count had long wanted to go, but the countess would never agree to leave Moscow until her son arrived.
- I saw them the day before yesterday at the Arkharovs'. Natalie looked prettier and more cheerful again. She sang one romance. How easy it is for some people!
- What's going on? - Pierre asked displeasedly. Julie smiled.
“You know, Count, that knights like you are only in madame Suza's novels.
- What knight? From what? - Blushing, asked Pierre.
- Well, fullness, dear count, c "est la fable de tout Moscou. Je vous admire, ma parole d" honneur. [all of Moscow knows this. Indeed, I am surprised at you.]
- Fine! Fine! - said the militia.
- Well, OK. You can't say how boring it is!
- Qu "est ce qui est la fable de tout Moscou? [What does all of Moscow know?] - Pierre said angrily, getting up.
- Completeness, Count. You know!
“I don’t know anything,” said Pierre.
- I know that you were friends with Natalie, and therefore ... No, I am always better friends with Vera. Cette chere Vera! [This dear Vera!]
- Non, madame, [No, madam.] - Pierre continued in an unhappy tone. - I did not take on the role of Rostova's knight at all, and I have not been with them for almost a month. But I don't understand the cruelty ...
- Qui s "excuse - s" accuse, [Whoever apologizes, he blames himself.] - Julie said smiling and waving lint and, so that she had the last word, she immediately changed the conversation. - What is it, today I found out: poor Marie Volkonskaya arrived in Moscow yesterday. Did you hear she lost her father?
- Really! Where is she? I would very much like to see her, - said Pierre.
- I spent the evening with her yesterday. She is going to the Moscow Region with her nephew this morning or tomorrow.
- Well, how is she? - said Pierre.
- Nothing, sad. But do you know who saved her? It's a whole novel. Nicolas Rostov. They surrounded her, wanted to kill her, wounded her people. He rushed and rescued her ...
“Another novel,” the militia said. - Decisively, this general flight is made so that all old brides marry. Catiche is one, Princess Bolkonskaya is another.
“You know that I really think she is un petit peu amoureuse du jeune homme. [slightly in love with a young man.]
- Fine! Fine! Fine!
- But how can I say this in Russian? ..
When Pierre returned home, he was handed two posters of Rostopchin brought that day.
The first said that the rumor that Count Rostopchin was forbidden to leave Moscow was unfair and that, on the contrary, Count Rostopchin was glad that ladies and merchant wives were leaving Moscow. "Less fear, less news," said the poster, "but my life answer is that there will be no villain in Moscow." These words for the first time clearly showed Pierre that the French would be in Moscow. The second billboard said that our headquarters was in Vyazma, that Count Wittgstein defeated the French, but that since many residents want to arm themselves, they have weapons prepared in the arsenal: sabers, pistols, guns, which residents can get at a cheap price. The tone of the posters was no longer as joking as in the previous Chigirin conversations. Pierre pondered over these posters. Obviously, that terrible thundercloud, which he summoned with all the forces of his soul and which at the same time aroused involuntary horror in him - obviously, this cloud was approaching.
“To enter the military service and go to the army or wait? - Pierre asked himself this question for the hundredth time. He took a deck of cards lying on his table and began to do solitaire.
“If this solitaire comes out,” he said to himself, mixing the deck, holding it in his hand and looking up, “if it comes out, then ... what does it mean?” the senior princess asking if it was possible to enter.
“Then it will mean that I have to go to the army,” Pierre said to himself. “Come in, come in,” he added, addressing the princess.
(One older princess, with a long waist and a petrified lid, continued to live in Pierre's house; the two smaller ones got married.)
Compact B segment hatchbacks are becoming more and more popular among residents of Russian cities. In this broad class, cars are presented for a wide variety of customer groups - both practical family five-door models and stylish three-doors, which we are going to talk about in our review.
EVERY MUCH of motorists, weighing all the pros and cons, give preference to small urban runabouts of segment B, or the so-called subcompact. The overwhelming majority of passenger cars in this sector are represented by a hatchback body in two versions at once - three- and five-door.
In Russia, the latter are still more popular, which is not surprising at all. Such models have the best combination prices, economy and roominess. They are most functional with small external dimensions. And they choose them, of course, for rational reasons.
However, for the class of subcompacts, a three-door design is still more characteristic, because many models are initially designed with just such a body.
It is believed that a three-door is the choice of an egoist, but there are many practical advantages in such a body. They look more beautiful, wide "compartment" doors provide the driver with a more convenient exit from the car. The extended side windows with the B-pillar offset to the rear provide better visibility. And many people even consider the absence of doors to the second row and, as a result, complicated access to it to be an advantage. Here, troubles associated with childish pranks or the negligence of passengers are excluded. And briefcases from the back sofa of such cars are not stolen for the same reason - this is simply impossible.
And although, in technical terms, there is no particular variety in subcompacts (all are characterized by the same type of suspension - McPherson with a stabilizer in the front and a semi-independent beam in the rear), segment B cars can surprise with the uniqueness of style solutions, equipment, and in some cases - and sports dynamics.
We have included in the review only the most relevant models that fit into the price range from 400 to 600 thousand rubles per “base”. The upper bar was chosen based on the fact that you can already buy a golf-class car at a higher price, and the lower one cuts off economy-class models designed for a completely different audience. For this reason, the more expensive premium MINI, niche Toyota Yaris and designer Citroёn DS3 dropped out of the review. You won't find the “Fiat Grande Punto Evo” here either, as it is still unknown when and at what price this model will start shipping. And the three-door version of "Nissan Micra" was deleted because it was stopped to import to Russia in 2010 - it was not in demand, as it was offered only with a manual gearbox.
But even after such a tough selection, there remains a decent choice. For your judgment - nine of the most popular and interesting models.
With the ORIGINAL name “Daewoo Kalos”, this car hardly had a chance to win the sympathy of Russian motorists - neither the excellent price / quality ratio, nor the harmonious appearance created in the “ItalDesign” studio would help. But calling itself "Chevrolet Aveo", the Korean development at one point became a hit in our country. Moreover, after the restyling, the demand for hatchbacks also increased significantly - they are noticeably different from sedans also in the design of the front end.
The three-door version is ten thousand rubles cheaper than the five-door analogue, although the body has the same dimensions and looks more advantageous - the window line here goes very nicely into the C-pillar. The car is offered in only seven colors, but even the basic versions are equipped with painted bumpers and spectacular radiator grilles. The interior does not have any catchy decorations and color variety, but it does not look impersonal. Designers have played well with textures plastic panels, gave them proportional shapes.
The Aveo's performance is a compromise, with the developers looking for a balance between comfort and sportiness. The first is provided by a pliable yet energy-intensive suspension. And the good dynamics is the merit of very high-spirited engines and gearboxes with a well-chosen ratio of gear ratios.
MARGINS
- Suggested modifications: “1.2” - only with mechanics, “1.4” - with “mechanics” or “automatic”. All engines are gasoline, sixteen-valve, meet Euro-4 standards.
- There are six configuration options, but there are only two trim levels - “Base” and LS. All models are equipped with power steering, disc brakes and power windows. LS externally differs in painted handles and mirror housings, higher quality fabric in the interior. They are equipped with a trip computer, ABS and seat height adjustment.
“Alloy wheels are not included in even the most advanced climate control and side airbag trims, but the beautiful 16-inch die-cast for the“ Aveo ”can be found in the accessories list, which also has quite a few other styling additions.
- Regular tires on "Aveo" can not be classified as narrow or wide. High-quality Korean tires of 185/60 R14 dimension are put on “Base”, on LS - 185/55 R15.
“Aveo” has a reputation for being unpretentious. It can tolerate our gasoline, poor road surface and changeable climate. It doesn't have heated seats, however.
- If the dealer does not have the required model (and this is quite likely), the delivery time can take up to 4-5 months. It all depends on what modifications are in production. In the next three months, for example, the most popular models with air conditioning and automatic transmission will be imported.
Ford created its new city car with an eye on the global market. After all, "Fiesta" is one of the most successful developments in its model range, and it is produced in the most different parts light (by the way, "Fiesta" for Russia comes from Cologne). Since 1976, when the first-born debuted, more than 10 million cars with this name have been produced.
The current generation is already the sixth in a row. The car is highly valued for its excellent driving habits and very vigorous dynamics. And the proprietary kinetic design in it, perhaps, has reached the apogee of its form - this statement is true for both the three- and five-door versions of the body. A passenger car with a more dynamic look in the B-segment is hard to find. It does not look trivial inside either - the entire dashboard from door to door seems to flood into the cabin, the compact recessed center console creates a feeling of lightness, and the embossed seats emphasize the sporty image. The model is modern in everything - from a large selection of unusual body enamels and finishing with such details as repeaters of turns in the mirrors or special interior lighting. No wonder it was “Fiesta” that received the prestigious international design award “Red Dot”.
MARGINS
- The choice of engines for "Fiesta" is quite wide: there are 82-, 96- and 120-horsepower modifications. The first and the last are offered only with a manual gearbox, while the popular “1.4” models exist with both “mechanics” and “automatic”.
- The choice of finishing options is also very wide. The simplest "Ambient" is intended only for the "1.2" model, for the rest of the modifications there is a democratic "Trend" and two versions of the rich "Titanium" trim, where even a leather interior is offered (of course, as an option).
- There is a special Russian performance of “Black & White”. Colors are only white and black. The salon is decorated with orange accents. The package includes climate control, heated seats and windshield, 16-inch alloy wheels.
- Even the simplest models are shod in solid 195/50 R15 tires on steel rims with hubcaps.
- Service-to-service mileage has been increased to 20,000 km, and the cost of all maintenance is fixed - 5,200 rubles. In fact, this is the annual maintenance fee for the "Fiesta" under normal operating conditions without force majeure.
- “Fiesta” with manual gearbox are available from dealers. Popular models with “automatic” will most likely have to wait a month or two. But even the ordered car in some special design is ready to be made in Germany and delivered to Russia in three months. From July 1, by the way, a discount of 20-25 thousand rubles is given for many modifications.
MODEL “Hyundai i20” replaced the popular “Getz”, although both cars are still sold on the Russian market - the predecessor was entrenched in the niche of “economy” category cars. The novelty is longer, wider and lower, designed in a much more sporty style - with smooth aerodynamic contours, embossed sides and fashionable lighting technology. Moreover, the advantages of the new design are especially clearly visible on the example of the three-door model - strong side stampings are better read in it, and a sporty silhouette is more pronounced.
The i20 uses a completely new platform developed by Hyundai's design center in Germany. They tried to make the car more sporty, sophisticated, with European rather than Korean chassis settings, but this was only partially successful. Yes, he acquired sharper reactions, but the toughened (and, in addition, reinforced on models for Russia) suspension provides acceptable acoustic and vibration comfort only on smooth flat road surfaces, and the slow machine does not dispose to active movement. The undoubted advantages of "i20" include high quality interior design, roomy luggage compartment in its class and excellent value for money and equipment.
MARGINS
- The choice of motors and boxes is standard. With an economical gasoline engine, the “i20” is produced only with “mechanics”, and with a more powerful 100-horsepower - either with a mechanic or with a classic four-band “automatic”.
- “Hyundai” adheres to fixed configurations, and in the case of the three-door “i20”, each modification generally corresponds to its own performance. For “1.2” - “Classic” trim with simplified dashboard design and manual mirrors. For “1.4” with “mechanics” - standard “Comfort” (air conditioning, heated seats). And for the model with “automatic” - advanced “Style” with alloy wheels, side airbags and curtains. The highest performance “Elegance” with ESP stabilization program is available only for the five-door “i20”.
- Standard tires - either budget narrow 175/70 R14, or standard 185/60 R15. It can be seen that the priority is given to economy and ride comfort, rather than better handling.
- All models sold in Russia are adapted to cold climates, equipped with a high-capacity battery, have a ground clearance of 15 cm and are distinguished by a reinforced suspension.
- Since the beginning of 2010, the import of three-door “i20” into our country has not been at all, but dealers have already begun to accept orders for such cars. They will be delivered from the Indian Hyundai plant in about three months.
A MACHINE with a rich heritage - that's what the Mitsubishi Colt is. Not many compact city cars can boast of almost half a century of history - a model with this name began to be produced in Japan back in 1962. She changed her appearance and layout many times. The last, seventh, generation, which debuted in 2002, generally resembles an ultra-compact monocab rather than a hatchback. It is taller than the competition, has a short sloping hood and a very roomy interior - no other passenger car in this review has such a spacious second row of seats. In 2008, the Colt underwent a very significant restyling and received a spectacular trapezoidal front end of the Jet Fighter.
The three-door model is six centimeters shorter than the five-door model - the designers have reduced the rear overhang to a minimum, but retained the wheelbase. The “Colt” body is designed in a clever way - the load-bearing elements form a kind of spatial frame in it, which provides greater rigidity and better protection. The doors are equipped with beams to resist side impacts. The disadvantages of the model include a not very efficient air conditioner and a somewhat noisy run - the rumble of the engine is heard in the cabin. But the engines are very high-torque.
MARGINS
- The most affordable "Colt" - with a three-cylinder 1.1-liter gasoline engine and a manual transmission. Models with engine “1.3”, which use electronic control of valve timing and lift of MIVEC valves, provide good dynamics with high efficiency, even in combination with a robotic gearbox.
- An on-board computer, an LCD display with a clock, an armrest box, automatic windows, an air recirculation system with a cabin filter and an air duct to the feet of the rear passengers are available in all trim levels. In total, three levels of equipment are offered: "Entry" (without air conditioning), "Inform" and "Invite". The latter is only for 95-horsepower models.
- In the spring, a campaign started - buyers of three-door "Colt" were offered thirty options for individual coloring of the car with the help of vinyl stickers.
- The model in the lower configuration is equipped with steel wheels with narrow tires of dimension 175/65 R14. The rest of the state also have stamped discs, but with much more serious tires 195/50 R15.
- Do not postpone your visit to the dealer if you decide to buy a "Colt". There will be no more deliveries of this model to Russia this year with a probability of 90%. You will be offered only those cars that have already been imported. By the way, it is the three-door that can still be found in the desired color and in the appropriate configuration. The five-door models are almost sold out.
THIS popular car is a joint development of Opel and FIAT. The same platform is used in the Italian subcompact “Grande Punto”. However, outwardly, these are completely different cars - they differ in size, style, and interior. German designers for the fourth generation “Corsa” found a unique rounded shape and applied elongated flowing headlights - the car quickly became popular thanks largely to the successful design of both the three- and five-door versions. In addition, it is one of the most spacious hatchbacks in its class. In recent years, the demand for the model has only grown - the company had to increase production volumes.
The Corsa is available in 14 different colors and is offered with different salons - the standard black interior in the Essentia version can be opted for the brighter Enjoy, the solid Cosmo or the new sporty GSi. The models are quite advanced in terms of equipment. All have seat height adjustment, electric drives, improved ABS. For versions with mechanics - an indicator of the optimal gear selection. Driving qualities do not disappoint either - the German car combines good acoustic comfort, imposingness and very accurate reactions.
MARGINS
- All petrol engines for “Corsa” meet Euro V standards and have excellent data. There is plenty to choose from - from a modest three-cylinder liter engine to a 150-horsepower turbo engine. True, the automatic transmission is only offered for versions “1.2” and “1.4”. In the first case, a "robot" box is placed, in the second - a traditional "automatic".
- The model is offered in four versions. “Essentia” is a purely Spartan performance. From the “Enjoy” level, the equipment of the machine is actually determined by the customer. All options are available, including panoramic roof and sunroof, navigation and adaptive light, rain sensors and ESP ...
- For those who appreciate originality, the model “1.2” has been created in a special version “Color Edition” with darkened headlights, a different interior design and a two-color body paint. And for those who like it hot - the sporty 192-strong "Corsa OPC". However, this model is from a completely different price category.
- The basic dimension of tires for "Corsa" - 185/70 R14 or 185/65 R15. But it is possible to order 16- and even 17-inch alloy wheels with tires 195/55 R16 or 215/45 R17, respectively.
- “Corsa” is not a shortage - in dealerships “Opel” you can immediately find suitable option... The most popular 1.2- and 1.4-liter modifications are now offered at a discount (up to 35,000 rubles when applying for a loan). Either liter models or “GSi” are delivered on request. Wait - three or four months.
“TWELVE seventh” has replaced the most popular car in Europe in the subcompact class - the “206” model. The novelty was also appreciated at its true worth - it was recognized as “Car of the Year” in many countries of the Old World, and in 2008 it even received the title of “Best Imported Car” in Japan.
This machine is also popular in Russia. You can't confuse her with anyone. The five-door version looks emphatically functional (and is the most roomy in the class for carrying luggage), and the three-door version is selfish in an amicable way. In 2009, "207" was updated, although it is barely noticeable. The designers of "Peugeot" did not dare to correct the style, but only painted some details in a new way. Added two spectacular body enamels: “Inari Blue” and “Erythean Red”. Advanced multimedia systems with Bluetooth have become available for order.
Peugeot cars are renowned for their exquisite handling. The dynamic modification “RC” with a 175-horsepower “1.6 THP” engine is especially good in this regard. Those who managed to order it, can consider themselves lucky, as the car has already become a rarity - after the debut of the “RCZ” coupe, it was decided not to supply the sports version of the “207th” anymore.
MARGINS
- The eight-valve "1.4" motor is offered only with a "handle", and a 90-horsepower with the same volume - only with a "robot". Motors “1.6” are also available. The atmospheric version is combined with an “automatic”, and the 175-horsepower turbocharged version is combined only with a 6-speed “mechanics”.
- The initial “Urban” equipment (only for “1.4 V8”) is devoid of air conditioning, electric mirrors, audio system and on-board computer. All of the above appears in the “Active” version. The "Premium" version includes climate control, 16-inch wheels, leather steering wheel and parking sensors. For an extra charge - a panoramic glass roof, Bluetooth and even a leather interior.
- Choosing the “Sportium” version, you get a dashboard with white scales, a sports steering wheel, a spoiler and “Monaco” rims, an aluminum gearshift lever and metal covers.
- Older models are equipped with 195/55 R16 tires. But even on the younger models, the tires are not the most delicate - 185/65 R15.
- The cost of maintenance for modifications "1.6", which are produced in France, is slightly higher than for the rest of the "207" supplied from Eastern Europe. But the service interval is the same - 20,000 km. All have a raised suspension and are adapted for 35-degree frost.
- It is problematic to order only the most powerful version “207 RC 1.6”. The rest of the cars are either available from dealers, or are in production and will arrive before the end of the summer.
CARS of the "Clio" family, which began to be produced by "Renault" back in 1990, have developed along their own path for 15 years. However, the third generation has already been built on the new B platform, which has become common to many Renault vehicles (Modus, Logan) and Nissan (Micra and Note). “Clio III” is one of the largest cars in its class. The three-door version looks very impressive, and in terms of the glazing area and the height of the windows, it is comparable to cars of a higher class. In 2009, the "Clio" has updated the bow and interior. The solid-door modification especially benefited from this transformation - a purely family car appeared in a new sports quality.
"Clio" has a fairly soft energy-intensive suspension (if you compare it with classmates), which is well suited for bad roads. Calm neutral reactions in this car are combined with decent directional stability. It outperforms most competitors in acceleration dynamics and maximum speed, provides a very high level acoustic comfort. The safety of the new “Clio” is rated five stars by EuroNCAP.
MARGINS
- “Clio” with small displacement engines are not supplied to Russia - only with 112-horsepower gasoline “1.6”. But in terms of the price / power ratio, it is Renault cars that look preferable to many in our review.
- You won't get confused in the complete sets. The model with "mechanics" is strictly in the performance of "Confort", and the "Clio" with "automatic" - in "Dynamique". Equipped with thumbs up both. There are electric mirrors and windows, adjustable seat height, side airbags and curtain airbags, ABS, cruise control, cornering lights and fog lights. The second configuration looks more advantageous because of the CD-radio and separate climate control instead of the air conditioner. on side light, foglights on seat height, side airbags and curtains, ABS, anovleny.
- Interior decoration does not imply variety. But there are accessories that allow you to individualize the appearance: a sports body kit and linings, a spoiler and an enlarged exhaust pipe, chrome mirrors and special design wheels.
- All "Clio" can be fitted with wheels with tires of almost racing dimension 215/45 R17, but the standard size is 185/60 R15.
- Adaptation for the Russian market comes down to increased ground clearance and underbody protection with steel sheets. Only the sports modification “Clio RS” with a 200-horsepower engine is supplied as is.
“Last year's models and a small batch of 2010“ Clio ”were dismantled like hot cakes, so at the moment there are no cars on sale. But new deliveries will start at the end of August.
The THREE-DOOR "Ibiza" version debuted later than the five-door version and was generally presented not as a hatchback, but as a new car with a "Sport Coupe" body. It really has a lot of differences. “Ibiza” with the prefix “SC” turned out to be lower and less roomy, has a more sloping and narrow rear window, differs in the shape of brake lights. However, belonging to the “Ibiza” family of the last, fourth, generation is guessed at first glance. Luc Donckerwolke, chief designer of SEAT, has retained all the characteristic features of the new line: the predatory front end and the swept profile of the sidewalls.
The car is built on a modern platform, which is common for most of the B segment cars developed recently by the VW group: Skoda Fabia, Volkswagen Polo of the fifth generation, the newest Audi A1. Equipped with "Ibiza" and the corresponding motors, although not all modifications are supplied to Russia. Also, the "Spaniard" stands out for the original interior made of high-quality materials, has verified driving data. The low piece demand for this model in our country can only be explained by the low awareness of motorists about the SEAT brand.
MARGINS
- The three-door “Ibiza SC” is officially presented with us so far only in two versions: “1.2” with “mechanics” or “1.6” with a 7-speed “robot”. However, another model with a gasoline engine is now undergoing Russian certification - a 180-horsepower “Ibiza Cupra” with a DSG gearbox.
- Cars with 70-horsepower engines come in the "Reference" package, and the more powerful ones in "Style". Both in the first and in the second case, you will have to pay extra for the air conditioner and the radio tape recorder (from next year the air conditioner will probably be included in the list of standard equipment for “Style”). But even the younger version has side airbags.
- On cars in segment B, bi-xenon headlights are rare, but the “Ibiza SC” is an exception. The car can be equipped with advanced lighting technology at the factory.
- Tire size - from 175/70 R14 to 195/50 R16. The Ibiza Cupra uses 17-inch wheels with wide, low-profile tires.
- All models are assembled in Spain, and those that are supplied to us have a northern adaptation: plastic wheel arch liners, anti-gravel coating and a special anticorrosive, warm battery casing, ground clearance increased to 16 centimeters. The same “Ibiza” is imported to Finland and Norway.
- The car is sold mainly on order. Delivery time is three months. In September, they will probably start accepting applications for the sporty “Ibiza Cupra”, but the prices for it have not been announced yet.
CHILD Volkswagen needs no introduction - cars named after the popular sports game have been rolling around Europe since 1975. The first-born had a lot in common with the compact “Audi 50”, but in just three years he actually “ate” his own brother - buyers preferred a more affordable people's car.
The previous generation of "Polo" turned out to be quite large and in terms of dimensions came close to the "Golf II". The current generation is also an accelerator. The car has become longer and wider by a good three centimeters, but the designers from Wolfsburg have found such forms, proportions and style solutions that the novelty looks even more elegant and compact. Moreover, it is worth noting hatchbacks in a five-door body (such versions are 14 thousand rubles more expensive). Usually these modifications are outwardly inferior to three-doors, but the “Polo 5d” is an exception - it has the same neat attractive design.
The novelty combines the traditional German reliability and endurance, maneuverability and economy. In 2009 and 2010, Polo received many international awards for this combination of qualities. Without a doubt, this is a potential bestseller.
MARGINS
- At the moment, the most advanced modification of the “Polo” in Russia is the petrol “1.2 TSI” (only with DSG). 85-horsepower models with a "1.4" engine are presented both with a "robot" and with a manual gearbox. Models with three-cylinder engines "1.2" have recently been supplied in a budget derated version (60 hp instead of 70).
- The “Polo” does not have the highest version “Highline” - only the initial “Trendline” and the middle “Comfortline” (not available for 1.2). Neither one nor the other has air conditioning, audio, heated seats, trip computer. The base contains only the most important: ABS, front airbags, height-adjustable driver's seat and steering column, adjustable in height and reach, power windows and central locking.
- “Comfortline” trim features combined door trim and chrome details. But for a surcharge, sports seats with Alcantara upholstery and stainless steel sills are available.
- For the junior configuration, the standard tires are 175/70 R14, for the next - 185/60 R15. There is a decent selection of native 16-inch alloy wheels, however.
- The adaptation of the car to Russian conditions is comprehensive - the ground clearance is increased, the suspension is strengthened, there is protection, etc.
- The standard term for order execution is six months. These are the features of the production cycle at the VW plant in Germany. But dealers have a lot of "Polo" in stock in a complete form - with heating, air conditioning or climate control, with music and other additions. Finding the right one is not a problem.
Ruslan TARASOV,
photos of manufacturers
Automakers have begun to ditch the three-door hatchbacks that were once very popular in the European market. This trend especially affected, many of which remained only in the five-door version. So, in recent years, such B-class three-doors as Renault Clio, Fiat Punto, Nissan Micra and Lancia Ypsilon have disappeared from catalogs. Recently, the turn came to the best-selling model in Europe - Volkswagen Golf, which also lost its modification with three doors. With the arrival of the new generation, the same fate awaits the Seat Ibiza, Volkswagen Polo and Suzuki Swift. In the golf class, the fate of three-doors is even more dramatic: with this body type today you can no longer see Opel Astra, Ford Focus, Peugeot 308, Renault Megane, Toyota Auris, Citroen C4 and Hyundai i30 models in showrooms.
According to Dmitry Baranov, leading expert of Finam Management, the massive exit of three-door hatchbacks from the market is caused by new trends in automotive fashion. At the same time, manufacturers can make such decisions based on their own development strategy, seeking to reduce costs and produce more expensive cars.
Manufacturers refuse three-door modifications in standard versions, but still offer niche charged three-doors for a narrow circle of buyers, says Ivan Kondratenko, consultant analyst at Frost & Sullivan. “The prices of three-door hatchbacks are often higher than five-door counterparts, as they are positioned as sportier versions. At the same time, the demand for such cars is often not too great: they are preferred mainly by young people who like active driving. At the same time, the dimensions of the three-door are almost identical to the five-door versions, but in practice there is less space in the cabin for the rear passengers. Due to their practicality, hatchbacks with five doors are more popular, moreover, they cover a larger segment of buyers, ”the expert states.
Victim of cross-mania
However, at one time, three-door hatchbacks were in good demand among European consumers. These cars with more aggressive designs were chosen by lonely people, married couples and even young people as the first car. According to the research company JATO Dynamics, 10 years ago, more than 2 million of these cars were sold annually in the Old World, and the best result was recorded in 2009 - 2.45 million units (market share - 17%). However, since 2010, their implementation has been steadily declining and at the end of last year, for the first time in many years, dropped below the million mark. As a result, the share of three-doors in the European market decreased from 14.9% in 2007 to 6.3% in 2016, and in the A-, B- and C-segments combined - from 26.8% to 12.8% ...Experts associate such dynamics with the consequences of the financial crisis in Europe in 2009-2013, which forced consumers to approach the choice of the body type of a new car more rationally. Recently, they have begun to pay more attention to the comfort and functionality of the car than to its design, especially for buyers of compact models. The crossover boom in Europe also played an important role in the fall in demand for three-door hatches: as you know, the lion's share of SUVs is presented in a five-door version, which largely caused a reduction in traditional car segments with less practical body types.
According to Grigory Kalmin, General Director of the Khimki Division of the AutoSpecCentre Group of Companies, the drop in demand for three-door hatchbacks is apparently due to the inconvenience of their use, while there is a slight difference in price with five-door counterparts and the lack of clear advantages. At the same time, models designed specifically for three-door performance remain in demand, for example, A-class cars, premium cars and three-door SUVs. These cars, as a rule, have no five-door counterparts and therefore retain their popularity in the market.
Indeed, nearly half of the three-door hatchbacks on display in Europe today do not have a five-door version. These are, for example, Fiat 500, Smart Fortwo, Opel Adam, DS3, Volkswagen Beetle, Ford Ka, Alfa Romeo Mito and Volkswagen Scirocco. According to Ivan Kondratenko, these models can hardly be classified as mass-produced - these are niche cars that are positioned as sports cars with character and for active driving with an eye to the category of young motorists. "Often, these models can also be offered in versions and in a variety of bright colors, designed to set the owner apart from the rather monotonous standard black / white / gray cars on the road," the expert notes.
We do not live in Europe
As for the Russian car market, in our country there are practically no hatchbacks with three doors, although they have never been very popular with us. The most common car with this type of body was, of course, the VAZ "eight", later renamed Lada Samara 113. Among foreign cars in Russia, at one time such models were sold as Fiat Panda, Peugeot 107 and 208, Seat Ibiza and Leon, Opel Astra and Corsa, Suzuki Swift, etc.
According to Grigory Kalmin, the Russian market, which does not show great results in the sales of three-door hatchbacks, firstly, obeys global trends, that is, a decrease in interest in such cars, and secondly, it has its own individual characteristics. “First of all, there is little demand for such models. Russian buyers are more interested in representative and practical cars than in a small “freedom-loving” hatchback. In addition, such a car is quite difficult to sell on the secondary market, and the seller will have to wait a long time for a response from the same loyal fan of the three-door as he is, ”says Grigory Kalmin.
Until recently, in the showrooms of Russian dealers, one could see the Volkswagen Beetle, as well as the three-door Kia Picanto and Hyundai i30 of the previous generation. Today, only Kia cee "d" and Fiat 500, as well as premium models Smart, Mini and DS 3 are left with three doors. Thus, unlike Europe, where three-door hatchbacks are still quite widely present in the mass segment, they are become the lot of premium brands.
“Apparently, automakers in Russia are betting on the best-selling models - sedans, five-door hatchbacks and crossovers, and often locally assembled, and niche brands are designed to bring some variety to the market. They have their own small segment of buyers and do not claim big sales, ”says Ivan Kondratenko.
Toys for the "golden youth"
Thus, it is aimed at a young audience of 20–40 years old, and the main sales markets for this model in our country are Moscow and St. Petersburg, according to the Russian office of Citroen. By the way, earlier we also presented a three-door Citroen C1 of the previous generation, and the company is ready to consider returning this model, if a prospect opens up in the A-class car segment.
The three-door body type traditionally remains one of the most popular among Mini cars. However, according to the press service of BMW Group Russia, the majority of Russian consumers still prefer large cars, so the company relies on the new Mini Countryman - the largest Mini in the history of the brand.
“Three-door hatchbacks are a niche product for Russia. Since the domestic market is still a developing one, sedan cars are more popular with us than hatchbacks. At the same time, in Russian families today there is basically one car, and for a family car, a five-door body clearly outperforms a three-door one. In addition, three-door hatchbacks are often more expensive and therefore have very limited potential in Russia. And if you remember the obligatory installation of the ERA-GLONASS system and certification of the model, then it is not surprising that they are leaving the market. In our estimation, in the near future, three-door hatchbacks may be in demand in the premium segment, where style is no less important than convenience and practicality, ”says Vladimir Miroshnikov, Development Director of Rolf. Flamboyant three-door hatchbacks seem to be finally going out of style. Even in the European market, there are fewer and fewer such models, to say nothing of Russia, where they have never been in great demand. Goodbye youth: where are the three-door hatchbacks?
