Photos by Jeff Wilson and Jonathan Yarkony
Detroit, Michigan – Following the successful launch of the new 2016 Chevrolet Cruze sedan, General Motors’ number one brand has just announced a new hatchback variant of the model.
Based on the same platform as its sedan sibling, the new Hatch will share its class-leading 2,700 mm wheelbase, enabling more than 50 mm greater rear legroom than the Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra – two of the new Cruze’s closest competitors.
The Cruze Hatch features its own individual roof and rear-end treatment that includes wraparound tail lamps and an integrated rooftop spoiler. The hatchback treatment not only gives the Cruze family a sporty-looking new member, but a more practical one too, with a cargo area that offers 643 L of space growing to 1,336 L when the rear seats are folded.
The new for 2016 Cruze features a more rigid and lighter structure than the previous generation, which Chevrolet claims helps give both the sedan and this new Cruze Hatch superior driving dynamics. The standard 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine employs direct injection and Stop/Start technology to aid in fuel efficiency.
Chevrolet boasts a significant list of high-tech features available on the Cruze Hatch including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility via the MyLink infotainment system. 4G LTE with a Wi-Fi hotspot is also available, plus luxury features like a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats and leather trim.
The Cruze Hatch will also keep its occupants safe with more standard safety features than any of its direct compact segment competitors. Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear park Assist will all be offered for the Cruze Hatch, as well as a Teen Driver feature that helps support safe techniques for new drivers and can provide parents with statistics of their teen’s driving habits.
Getting some time up close and personal with the Cruze Hatch at the North American International Auto Show, we can confirm the level of quality of the interior materials appears on par or superior to the competitors, and the rear seat does provide a roomy passenger space for the class.
All of our Detroit coverage: 2016 North American International Auto Show
The Cruze is Chevrolet’s best-selling car globally, and enjoys Chevrolet’s most loyal customers with 47 percent of Cruze owners buying another, and nearly 70 percent purchasing another Chevrolet.
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatch will be available in both LT and Premier trims, with an RS option (as seen on the car in the photos).
The Cruze Hatch is set to hit dealerships in autumn 2016. Canadian pricing has not yet been announced.
