The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback has been seen testing in southern Europe. The test mule spotted was heavily camouflaged, but the hatchback’s front end is expected to be visually identical to the India-bound 2017 Cruze sedan's. The rear of the car features a horizontal tail-lamp cluster that extends into the bootlid, and it also gets a sporty-looking roof-mounted spoiler.
In addition to the front fascia, the new Cruze hatchback for international markets will also carry over the new sedan’s 2,700mm wheelbase, and will be lighter than the current hatchback by over 100kg. The first-gen Chevrolet Cruse hatchback was not sold in India. The hatchback will also sport a more aerodynamic design than its predecessor.
The front-wheel-drive Cruze will be powered by a 153 bhp 1.4-litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol motor mated to a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. Given that the new Cruze sedan, powered by the same engine, dispatches the 0-100kph run in eight seconds, it is safe to expect a similar performance from the hatchback.
The five-door Cruze hatchback will be made available first in the US. It is also expected to receive a diesel powerplant sometime later in 2017.