While many vehicle segments have been around for over a century, such as the sedan and the truck, the hot hatchback is one that got its unofficial start just under half a century ago. It was 1976, and the Volkswagen Golf GTI debuted to immediate and widespread popularity, having come on the heels of the standard VW Golf’s unveiling in 1974. Since then, the hot hatchback has been a favorite among people who need a practical car, but also enjoy a bit of exuberant driving from time to time.
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