The small hatchback was created for the Brazilian market and first shown at the Sao Paulo Auto Show there last fall.

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Kia executives say that U.S. sales really went into high gear starting with the launch of the Kia Soul small hatchback in 2009.

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The small hatchback that Mercedes-Benz has on a pedestal at its auto-show display looks like a car that got lost on its way to the Toyota stand.

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"This isn't what we struggled for, " he says and turns to open the door of his small, battered, hatchback car.

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And for those who prefer a more conventional ride, small cars like the Honda Fit hatchback and Volkswagen Jetta sedan boast what are among the roomiest interiors in their respective classes.

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The vehicle involved was a small, grey or light-coloured hatchback and officers said it was "likely to have front-end damage as a result of the collision".

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