By Steve & Tamami Laser
Here’s a pop quiz for automotive trivia buffs: What’s the best-selling Chevrolet car worldwide today? It’s the Cruze with an amazing 3.5-million sold since 2008. While other markets have offered a hatchback model, the time has finally arrived to welcome it to the U.S. lineup in the form of the new 2017 Cruze Hatchback.
Chevrolet revealed the new model ahead of its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Developed with all the technologies and dynamic driving attributes of the all-new 2016 Cruze sedan, the new hatch adds a functional and sporty choice for customers. It joins Colorado and Trax as the latest Chevrolets to push into new segments.
The Cruze Hatch has the same 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase as sedan models, but features a unique roof and rear-end structure, including wraparound taillamps and an integrated spoiler at the top of the liftgate. It opens to offer 18.5 cubic feet (524 liters) of cargo space behind the rear seat. With the rear seat folded, cargo space expands to 42 cubic feet (1,189 liters).
Chevrolet says an all-new, more rigid and lighter architecture is the Cruze’s foundation for driving dynamism, while also playing a significant role in safety and efficiency. It’s more than 200 pounds (91 kg) lighter than the previous-generation model due largely to a body structure that’s 100 pounds lighter and an engine that’s 44 pounds (20 kg) lighter.
The Cruze lineup in North America is offered in L, LS, LT and Premier plus an RS package, featuring unique front and rear fascias, rocker panels, rear spoiler, fog lamps and, on the Premier model, 18-inch wheels.
Chevrolet says Cruze Hatch offers segment-exclusive standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility via the MyLink radio systems and available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot.
The automaker also says that Cruze has “more standard safety features than any other compact car” plus available adaptive features including Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Park Assist.
Cruze Hatch has a standard 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection and Stop/Start technologies, electric power steering and, on Premier models, a Z-link rear suspension.
Available features include a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, leather-appointed seating surfaces, and halogen projector-beam headlamps with LED signature lighting.]
Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
News source and photos courtesy of Chevrolet and GM
Story (commentary) © 2015 CarNichiWa.com