Not knowing where you're based, I'm not sure what you'd class as a 'small' car. Matiz, Smart (is a hatchback, I havent seen one open sideways?) don't have sedan

Not knowing where you're based, I'm not sure what you'd class as a 'small' car. Matiz, Smart (is a hatchback, I havent seen one open sideways?) don't have sedan variants no. But the whole point of them is to be small. I would guess the reason theres room there at all is for a crumple zone. Hatchback/estate is basically branding yes. You do generally get a longer boot (normally using the sedan base), and tend to get a squarer flatter loading area. I'd go for a hatchback every time too, as you say, more practical. Well done to your wife btw.... Where were you though :P