2017 Chevy Cruze Hatch
Build with all the technologies and
driving characteristics of the all-new 2016 Cruze sedan, the hatchback version
is set to be a functional and sporty alternative for future Chevrolet
customers.
The Cruze hatchback
comes with a class-leading 2,700 mm wheelbase, but also a unique
roof and rear-end design, which includes wraparound taillights and an
integrated spoiler. Design-wise, it's definitely a massive improvement over
what we came to know as the 5-door Cruze.
Chevrolet didn't skimp on the
practicality either, as the Cruze hatch features 524 liters of
cargo space behind the rear seats, which can become 1,189 liters with those very same seats folded.
The new Cruze hatch is 91
kg lighter than the previous generation model, thanks mainly to an
all-new, more rigid and lighter architecture - 100 lbs lighter to be exact,
whereas the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine itself is also 20 kg lighter
and comes with Stop/Start tech. While these numbers aren't mind-blowing,
they will have meaning to customers who are new to Chevrolet as well as to
returning customers. In the US, the Cruze is the segment's second-best selling
model to people under 25, and 35% of those customers are actually new to the
Chevrolet brand.
Spec-wise, the 2017 Cruze hatch will be
offered in LT and Premier trims, as well as with a more expressive RS package
which brings unique front & rear fascias, rocker panels, rear spoiler, fog
lamps and 18" wheels to the table. Other key features include Apple
CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility via the MyLink system (available 4G LTE
with Wi-Fi hotspot), Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alerg, Side Blind
Zone Alert and Rear Park Assist. Chevrolet also pointed out how neither the
Corolla nor the Civic feature these types of safety systems, and that inside
the cabin there is more rear legroom then you get in the Ford Focus and Hyundai
Elantra.
Sticking with the cabin, the Cruze hatch
can be configured with a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats,
Athens leather-appointed seating surfaces and true French seams. Stepping
outside, you'll find halogen projector-beam headlamps with LED signature
lighting.
On the road behavior will be dictated by
the electric power steering and on Premier models, a Z-link rear suspension as
well, which is good considering how there are plenty of models in this segment
which offer reasonably sporty drives. The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback will
go on sale in the fall of 2016.


