New for 2017
The Cruze hatchback is a new model based on the redesigned Cruze sedan that debuted for the 2016 model year.
Added Utility
U.S. buyers have always been somewhat averse to hatchbacks, which is why the previous-generation Chevrolet Cruze hatch was never sold here. But Chevy is bringing the new Cruze hatchback here for the 2017 model year, and it’s using a combination of style, premium materials, and added utility to win over skeptical U.S. consumers.
Performance
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback builds on the redesigned Cruze sedan launched for the 2016 model year. It shares the sedan’s new platform, which is lighter and stiffer than previous Cruze models, as well as a low-and-wide footprint and a greater emphasis on driving dynamics. The Cruze is part of a new breed of compact cars that don’t sacrifice driver satisfaction for the sake of a low price.
The hatchback also shares its sole engine option with the Cruze sedan. A 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. Power goes to the front wheels through six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
All Cruze models feature standard engine start-stop, which shuts down the engine while the car is stopped to save fuel, and electric power steering. Both items help contribute to a relatively high EPA-rated fuel economy of 32 mpg combined (29 mpg city, 38 mpg highway)* with the automatic transmission, and 31 mpg combined (28 mpg city, 37 mpg highway)* with the manual.
To help take advantage of the stiff body structure, Chevy equipped all Cruze models with updated suspension for better handling. All trim levels use MacPherson strut front suspension with specially tuned bushings and geometry. Top-level Premier models also get a Z-link rear suspension for added handling precision.
Features
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze five-door hatchback joins the four-door Cruze sedan. The hatchback is available in LT and Premier trim levels with an available RS package. Pricing starts at $22,190.**
Equipment mirrors that of the Cruze sedan with these trim levels. The LT comes standard with heated power-adjustable exterior mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, six-speaker audio system with SiriusXM® satellite radio, steering wheel mounted audio and phone-interface controls, and more.
The Cruze Premier builds on the LT model, incorporating its standard features and adding 17-inch wheels, mirrors with turn-signal indicators, interior ambient lighting, leather seats, power driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, remote start, and other features.
Optional equipment includes an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bose® nine-speaker premium audio system, navigation, Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system, and heated outboard rear seats. The RS package gives the Cruze a sportier look, with special front and rear fascia, rocker panels, a rear spoiler, fog lights, and 18-inch wheels on Premier models.
Design
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback features the same handsome styling as the recently redesigned Cruze sedan, which in turn borrows from other current Chevys like the Malibu and Volt.
Like the Cruze sedan, the hatchback features sleek styling that makes it the opposite of the stereotypical econobox. The greenhouse is low, the windshield is steeply raked, and the front fascia includes a dual-level grille that gives the Cruze a sporty and aggressive appearance. Chevy says the detailed line work in the hood and body sides also creates an “overall impression of muscularity.”
The hatchback shares most sheet metal and a generous 106.3-inch wheelbase with the sedan, but gets its own roof and rear-end structure. It also has an advantage in cargo space, offering 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 47.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.
Chevy tried to give the Cruze interior a more upscale feel with more soft-touch materials, animal-grained micro-etched surfacing, and French stitching. The Cruze has plenty of tech, too, including Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system with an available 8.0-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ smartphone integration.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback includes anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak® stability control, traction control, a rearview camera, and 10 airbags. Optional features include forward collision alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear park assist, and side blind zone alert with lane change alert.
Verdict
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze might just change American views about hatchbacks.
Be sure to contact us online or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 to schedule a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Click here to see all Chevrolet vehicles' destination freight charges.
Image: Chevrolet
