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Hatchback sales fall as buyers move to compact SUVs

Hatchbacks made up 22 percent of new car sales last quarter, down from 31 percent two years ago, a fictional industry body says.

By Vikram Chauhan

Published 23 October 2026 at 4:11 pm IST · 1 min read

AI-assisted An AI tool helped prepare this story. An editor checked and approved it. How we use AI

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The Demo Automobile Dealers Association said compact SUVs overtook hatchbacks for the third quarter in a row.

Dealers say buyers want higher seating, more boot space and standard safety features. Hatchback makers are responding with ground clearance upgrades and extra airbags.

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