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About the Current Shipping Situation - Updated June 1, 2023
Dear Valued Customers,
Priority for loading brand new vehicles has created in delayed bookings for used vehicles as of May 2023.
Despite this, BE FORWARD continues to do its best to get your car shipped as quickly as possible by working closely with the shipping companies.
In addition, please note that the shipping of electric vehicles, salvage vehicles, large vehicles, construction machinery, etc. may be delayed or may not be shipped due to the regulations of the shipping company.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. Please do not hesitate to contact our sales representatives if you have any questions.
With the various car body styles on the market, the sedan is no longer necessarily the best option for all consumers. Hatchback models are now gaining favor with consumers as the trunk is connected to the internal cabin instead of being separate, like a sedan. This design has made hatchback vehicles popular, particularly in the compact car segment, as its smaller external dimensions mean a more spacious interior.
To give you even more options, car manufacturers have released hatchback versions of popular sedans, such as the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla.
Read on to learn how the hatchback might be your right vehicle type. As well as what the popular offerings currently on the market are so that you can make an informed decision about your perfect hatchback.
Why Buy a Hatchback?
The main reason to choose a hatchback (over a sedan) is space. Hatchbacks feature plenty of cargo space compared to the boot of traditional sedans. It might be hard to believe, but the cargo volume of many compact hatchbacks is comparable to or even more significant than mid-sized sedans. The fold-down rear seat backs that are common in hatchbacks allow you to trade unused seating space for even more cargo room when needed.
Hatchbacks also offer a more comfortable journey for you and your passengers, thanks to their higher roof. Even if the extra height isn't used, it will still feel more spacious, whereas the driver will benefit from greater visibility thanks to a larger windshield glass area and windows.
What to Consider When Buying a Hatchback
Seating
While versatility and cargo space might be your priority, you'll need to consider how many passengers you'll typically be transporting (and how comfortably you'll be doing so). Mid-sized hatchbacks can seat five easily, whereas it will be more of a squeeze in a compact hatchback.
Cargo / Trunk Capacity
Not all hatchbacks come with fold-down rear seat backs as standard, so if you want the flexibility of being able to trade seating room for cargo capacity, you'll want to ensure that your hatchback comes with this feature.
Engine and Fuel Efficiency
Many hatchbacks come with hybrid powertrain options, in addition to the standard petrol and diesel, to give you better fuel efficiency.
Safety Features
Most hatchbacks have a standard array of safety features like ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD (Electronic Brake Pressure Distribution), and airbags.
Depending on the model, more advanced safety devices like blind spot warning, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist might also be available.
Best Japanese Hatchbacks to Consider Importing
Toyota
Awarded Car of the Year from 1999 to 2000 in Japan and undoubtedly Africa's favorite hatchback, the long-running Toyota Vitz incorporates a compact and modern exterior design with interior and engine components that make for a comfortable drive.
The Toyota Aqua is a hybrid option that condenses 17 years of Toyota's efficient and lightweight hybrid car manufacturing know-how. Fuel efficiency comes in at an impressive 87 mpg.
Another hybrid option from Toyota is the hatchback version of its popular Prius. The Prius can achieve from 82 to 136 horsepower while boasting fuel efficiency of up to 89.4 mpg.
Toyota's Yaris is the quintessential subcompact. Available as a hatchback, the Yaris seats five comfortably in its small frame and gets a 1.0L, 1.3L, or 1.5L engine. Even in its gas models, the Yaris can achieve 39 to 59 mpg, not to mention the hybrid version, which comes in at 80.6 mpg.
Going even more compact is Toyota's smallest compact car, the Passo. This youthful compact hatchback prides itself on its ease of handling, foldable rear seats for greater versatility, and range of available features.
Last but not least from Toyota is the Ractis. This two-box hatchback has earned fans worldwide thanks to its compact size, fuel-efficient 1.3L or 1.5L engine, and the broad range of added features.
Nissan
The Nissan Leaf is a smooth-driving electric hatchback designed for comfort and practicality. Plenty of head, leg, and luggage space makes the Leaf ideal for active families.
Another ideal option for those with children is the Nissan Note. Its minivan-like design gives it extra space to meet your transporting needs.
Mazda
Mazda's Demio is their lightweight, high-performance 5-door compact hatchback. A few elements of the Demio's winning formula are its economical fuel consumption, superb handling, and dependability.
Honda
The ubiquitous Honda Fit is a fun and dependable ride for the whole family. It also comes in a hybrid version that achieves up to 70.5 mpg.
Mitsubishi
In production since 1962, the Mitsubishi Colt is a reliable and affordable hatchback that sports a flowing "one motion form" from the front bumper to the back end of the roof for added maneuverability.
Some Colt models over the years have been available in sporty, rally car-style options with sports seats and floor shifting (available for two-wheel drive models only).
Subaru
Subaru's high-performance Impreza has also come as a hatchback since 2008. Available engines for the Impreza include a 1.5L DOHC engine with 110 horsepower, a 2L SOHC engine with 140 horsepower, and a 2L turbo engine which requires premium gasoline and has 250 horsepower.
Suzuki
The Suzuki Swift is a joy for any driver. But don't just take our word for it, as the Swift has won many awards, including "The Most Fun Car to Drive" in Japan. It won awards like this because of its exceptional handling, performance, fuel economy, and affordable price point.
With its quirky design, spacious interior, ease of access, and user-friendly luggage space, Suzuki's light wagon Wagon R revolutionized the Japanese light motor vehicle concept. Hybrid models bump up the already exceptional fuel efficiency of the Wagon R to even greater heights of 78.6 mpg.
Where to Get the Best Deals on Hatchbacks from Japan
Used Japanese hatchbacks are available at various Japanese automobile exporters. With BE FORWARD, you can be sure you'll get a great deal on a well-maintained Japanese hatchback at an affordable price. Get yours with us now!
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