Given the huge popularity of SUVs in America, I am surprised that hatchbacks are not more popular. Where I live at least, hatchbacks are greatly outnumbered by sedans among small cars. I have owned several hatchbacks over the years (Honda Civics, VW Golf, Toyota Tercel) and always found them more useful than sedans. I also like their styling. The only downside, from my viewpoint, is they do tend to collect dirt and grime on the hatch, more so than a sedan.
I am also surprised that VW Golfs are not more popular among hatchback drivers. The most common hatchbacks around here are the Toyota Prius, Honda Fit and Mini Cooper followed by Mazda 3, Toyota Matrix, Nissan Versa. The new Ford Focus seems to selling well among new models. However, Golfs are few and far between. I do see more Golfs in downtown neighborhoods but seldom on interstates, which is sort of ironic because it is probably the best riding hatch on the highway.