Chevrolet’s best selling car globally is the Cruze, with over four million sold since its debut in 2008. Now joining the ranks is the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback, which brings to market a versatile, functional and sporty hatchback that delivers up to 47.2cubic feet of cargo space.
The 5-passenger hatchback is available in two trim levels: the base LT and upscale Premier, while sedans will come in L, LS, LT and Premier trims. An optionally available RS package that includes a rear spoiler, front fog lamps, a sport body kit and 18-inch machined face aluminum alloy wheels is only for LT and Premier models.
The standard power source is a front transversely mounted 1.4-liter, DOHC, 16-valve VVT inline four-cylinder engine with Direct Injection and electronic throttle control. The horsepower rating is 153 at 5,600 rpm, while the torque produced is 177 pound feet in a range from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. Look for a more efficient diesel with a 9-speed automatic transmission to appear first in the sedan Cruze, following with the Hatch in 2018.
There are two transmission choices to gear energy to the front wheels: an
M32 six-speed manual or Hydra-Matic 6T35 six-speed automatic.
Visually, the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback displays a more aerodynamic form than before with an above-average fuel economy for its class and more appealing styling cues. The Cruze sedan and Cruze Hatch are very similar from the rear doors forward, while the overall versatility of the Hatch may be impacted somewhat by the exceptionally curvy roofline.
The cabin space is not only roomy, but serves up a modern yet functional and stylish environment with premium features, including heated cloth front seats, heated rear outboard leather-trimmed seats along with a heated, leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Connectivity and infotainment is provided through Chevrolet MyLink, with available Android Auto and Apple Car Play compatibility. Chevrolet 24/7 Promise offers connectivity and service benefits, including 24-month/24 GB data plan with access to 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Additional charge-only USB port added to rear of the center console on all LT and some Premier trims
Safety features include: Ten standard air bags, including driver and front passenger knee air bags; a standard rear-vision camera; a Driver Confidence Package is available on LT (with automatic transmission) and Premier. Content provides rear Park Assist, Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert; a Driver Confidence II Package is available on Premier models adding IntelliBeam Automatic High-Beam Control, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator; and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist.
My test 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback came in Premiere trim and with a Silver Ice Metallic exterior finish and Black interior. The base sticker read $23,945., while the Enhanced Convenience Package, Driver Confidence Package II and Destination Charge bumped the final tally up to $28,475.
SUMMARY: The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback in Premier trim is perfect as a daily driver and for adventuresome road trips, but perhaps not ideally suited to canyon carving.
A turbo diesel upon arrival, will undeniably deliver a healthier dose of torque, but the 1.4-liter four-banger does yeoman’s duty, with adequate acceleration and satisfying shift points. I’m not a big fan of the auto stop/start function, which can’t be turned off, but it works well.
The ride quality is comfortable and delivers a satisfying stability, and the handling characteristics are sporty and engaging.
Bottom line, the new Chevy Cruze Hatchback should prove to be a welcome and successful addition to the Cruze family with its added versatility and functionality, along with its high level of content and affordability. Besides all that, it is a really good-looking compact Hatch.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback Premier 1 SF
Base Price: $23,945.
Price as Tested: $26,475.
Engine Type and Size: 1.4-liter, DOHC, 16-valve VVT inline four-cylinder with Direct Injection and electronic throttle control
Horsepower (bhp): 153 @ 5,600 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 177 @ 2,000-4,000 rpm
Transmission: M32 six-speed manual or Hydra-Matic 6T35 six-
speed automatic.
Drive Train: Transversely mounted front engine / Front-wheel drive.
Suspension: Front – MacPherson strut with side-loaded strut modules, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar; and hydraulic ride bushings.
Rear – Compound crank with double-walled, U-shaped profile (LT); Z-link (Premier)
Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel-disc variable brake system with power assist; Duralife brake rotors with ABS and StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System with Traction Control.
Tires: Firestone Firehawk GT 225/45 R17 91H M & S mounted on 5-“Y”-spokesilver painted alloy wheels.
Wheelbase: 106.3 inches
Length Overall: 175.3 inches
Width: 70.5 inches
Height: 57.7 inches
Curb Weight: 2,978 lbs.
Turning Circle: Not given
Fuel Capacity: 13.7 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 29 mpg city / 38- mpg highway
Drag Coefficient: Not listed
0 – 60 mph: 7.7 seconds
• Styling – 4.5 Stars
• Performance – 4.5 Stars
• Ride and Handling – 4.5 Stars
• Utility – 4.5 Stars
• Comfort and Convenience – 4.5 Stars
• Economy – 4.5 Stars
• Value and Competition – 5 -Stars
Summary – 4.57 Stars
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback is a stylish and sporty hatchback that fits well into Chevrolet’s Cruze family offering economy with a fun-to-drive feel and added versatility.
