Most Fuel-Efficient Hatchbacks of 2010

2010 hatchbacks are some of the best-selling vehicles for the year. With sporty styling, zippy engines and an MSRP that is generally quite affordable, it's no wonder that drivers all over the world consider the hatchback to be their body style of choice.

One of the biggest advantages of the compact hatchback is fuel efficiency. There are plenty of top contenders that earn well over 30 mpg combined for the new model year. According to the EPA, the most fuel-efficient hatchbacks for 2010 are as follows:

2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI (34 mpg combined)

Volkswagen's diesel engine technology takes the cake for fuel-efficiency in 2010. Outfitted with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the stylish 2010 VW Golf earns 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. This makes the Golf TDI the second-most fuel-efficient non-hybrid for the year (right behind the Smart fortwo). Beyond stellar gas mileage, the 2010 Golf also delivers exceptional acceleration (thanks to 236 lb-ft. of torque) and a comfortable interior. Base MSRP for the diesel Golf is $23,690.

2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI (34 mpg combined)

The 2010 VW Jetta TDI comes with the same engine as the Golf. Though the EPA categorizes the Jetta as a hatchback, it really has more of a sedan body style. As such, if you want the peppiness of the Golf TDI, but would prefer more room and a 4-door design, then the 2010 Jetta is a great option. Base MSRP for the diesel Jetta is $23,760.

2010 Toyota Yaris (32 mpg combined)

The diminutive 2010 Yaris may be small in proportions, but it delivers big in the category of fuel efficiency. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine zips along at 106 mph and earns 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Despite the size, Toyota has maximized interior cabin space to offer a fair amount of front-passenger comfort. If you're looking for a budget commuter that saves you at the pump, then the Yaris may be a good choice. The entry price for owning a Toyota Yaris is $11,550.

2010 Honda Fit (31 mpg combined)

Honda's compact Fit hatchback earns an impressive 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. For many, the larger dimensions, improved fit and finish and sportier engine make the 2010 Fit a more attractive option than the slightly greener Toyota Yaris. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine offers 117 horsepower, which can be mated to a Dual-Mode Paddle Shifter System. The 2010 Honda Fit starts at $14,900.

2010 Chevrolet Aveo5 (30 mpg combined)

The economical Chevy Aveo5 hatchback makes the most of its small frame by offering 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. With a base price of $11,965, the 2010 Chevrolet Aveo is positioned as a budget vehicle. As such, don't expect much in the way of standard equipment. However, if you're looking for a reliable and affordable car, then the 103-hp Aveo might be a good entry vehicle to look into.

2010 Scion xD (29 mpg combined)

The Scion xD brings a bit of economical excitement to the hatchback category. Though similar to the Toyota Yaris, the 2010 xD ups the ante in terms of standard features, styling and customization. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine offers 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. With a starting price of $14,800, the Scion xD competes most closely with the Honda Fit.