FORD KE LASER 5D HATCHBACK (1987-1990)
THE popular Australian-built Laser was sold in five-door form. Styling changes and lower new price made the Laser more appealing to most people than the Mazda 323 on which it was based. Manual steering is very heavy and power steering is much preferred.

HONDA EF CIVIC 3D HATCHBACK (1987-1991)
THE Civic comes in three-door hatch and four-door sedan. Interior is spacious but rear headroom is restricted and the luggage compartment is very small. The Civic's light weight and 73kW engine ensure good performance and fuel economy. Top Honda build quality, though parts and servicing can be expensive.

MITSUBISHI CB LANCER 5D HATCHBACK (1990-1992)
THE five-door Lancer is bigger than its rivals and can carry four people in comfort. The 1.5-litre, 56kW, carburettor engine had adequate power and good fuel economy. More powerful fuel-injected engines were available in the GLX model for much more money. The Lancer is a smooth, comfortable and quiet car.

TOYOTA COROLLA 5D HATCHBACK (1989-1991)
THIS was Toyota's first front-wheel drive hatchback Corolla and came only as a five-door. Engine options are 1.4 or 1.6-litre carburetted, providing adequate performance and fuel economy.