CHEVROLET is extending the appeal of its popular Cruze model with next year’s launch of a five-door hatchback version.
The car will be seen for the first time as one of four world premieres by the American marque at the Paris Motor Show at the end of this month.
Cruze has already proved a hit in its traditional saloon style and as Chevrolet Europe chief Wayne Brannon points out: “We are selling the Cruze in 70 countries around the world and it has recently surpassed the Aveo as our top selling passenger car.”
Since its launch in spring 2009, the Cruze saloon has achieved a 5-star NCAP safety rating and was also elected the AUTOBEST car of 2010 by a jury of leading auto writers in Central and Eastern Europe.
With its sweeping coupe roofline and short overhangs at both the front and rear, the new Cruze hatchback has the same dynamic stance as the saloon making it easily recognisable.
Chevrolet says it will also benefit from the same taut body feel on the road, while its cargo capacity is close to 400 litres – boosted by 60/40 split rear seating.
Sales will start next summer with prices due to be announced nearer the launch date.