The story of the Chevrolet Cruze goes from strong to stronger with the latest chapter heralding the launch of a new 5-door hatchback model, further evidence of Chevrolet’s commitment to bring value for money in every segment in which it competes.
The new Chevrolet Cruze 5-door hatchback will go on sale across Europe mid 2011, followed by other global markets. While the Cruze sedan will arrive at U.S. dealers in September, the Cruze hatchback will not be offered in the U.S. market.
A show car version of Chevrolet’s compact hatchback will be seen for the first time at the Paris Motor Show, on September 30. It will be one of four world Chevrolet premieres at the show.
With the introduction of the new Cruze hatchback, customers have an alternative body style to the traditional sedan.
According to Wayne Brannon, president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe, the potential for meeting further customer demand is significant. “Cruze is turning out to be a real success story. We are selling it in 70 countries around the world and it is our top-selling passenger car globally.”
“Hatchbacks play a critical role in many markets. For instance, the total compact segment in Europe represents around 4.8 million units which is over a quarter of the total market, with hatchbacks representing around 65% of that volume,” Brannon said. “We therefore expect to see increased business in a number of regions.”
Since its launch in the spring 2009, the Cruze sedan has been warmly welcomed by markets all over the world, seen as a game changer for the brand with customers attracted to its coupe style, build quality, European 5-star NCAP rating and driving dynamics. It was also elected the AUTOBEST car of 2010 by a jury of leading auto writers in Central and Eastern Europe.
Outside of Europe, Cruze’s sales momentum is equally evident. In China alone, Chevrolet has sold nearly 90,000 Cruze vehicles since the start of the year, while the sedan is also selling well in Russia, parts of South America, and in India and other emerging markets.
Hatchback design
With its attractive sweeping coupe roofline and short overhangs at both the front and rear, the new Cruze hatchback has the same dynamic ‘stance’ as the sedan and will be instantly recognizable. It will benefit too from the same taut body ‘feel’ on the road, being built using the new body-frame integral system (BFI) which is complemented by the final tuning to chassis components. The BFI system results in high levels of stability and solidity.
Cargo capacity for the Cruze hatchback is close to 400 liters and will feature 60/40 split rear seating.
Chevrolet’s participation in the World Touring Car Championship with the Cruze is also currently paying great dividends. With four races left in the season, it currently leads both the drivers’ and team championships while also showcasing the dynamic qualities of the car to great effect.
