2012 Chevrolet Cruze in Vineland, NJ - $4,800

After gaining in popularity with American motorists since its introduction in 2008 to become the nameplate’s best selling model world wide, Chevrolet upped the ante with a complete redesign of the Cruze sedan for this year. As part of that effort, the automaker continues to push the boundaries with a first-ever Cruze hatchback for the 2017 model year.

The Cruze Hatch has the same, class-leading wheelbase as sedan models, but features a unique roof and rear-end structure – including wraparound taillamps and an integrated spoiler at the top of the liftgate. It opens to offer plenty of cargo space behind the rear seat. With the rear seat folded, cargo space expands to almost 50 cubic feet.

Available in LT and Premier trims, the Cruze hatch offers motorists a more expressive RS package that includes unique front and rear fascias, rocker panels, rear spoiler, fog lamps and – on the Premier model – 18-inch wheels.
Power for the Cruze hatchback is the same 1.4L turbo four-cylinder that is found in the sedan. Torque is communicated through either a M32 six-speed manual gearbox or Hydra-Matic 6T35 six-speed automatic transmission.

Like the redesigned 2016 Cruze sedan, the hatchback rides on an all-new, more rigid and lighter architecture which serves as the hatchback’s foundation for driving dynamism, while also playing a significant role in safety and efficiency. Control hardware includes an independent front MacPherson strut-type suspension with side-loaded strut modules, specifically tuned coil springs, and a hollow direct-acting stabilizer bar. At the rear the suspension pieces include a compound crank (torsion beam) with double-walled, U-shaped profile. Premier models are equipped with a Z-link rear suspension.

Inside the passenger cabin available features include a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, Athens leather-appointed seating surfaces, true French seams and halogen projector-beam headlamps with LED signature lighting.

Additionally, segment-exclusive standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility via the MyLink radio systems and available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot. An available Teen Driver feature helps support safe driving habits and offers driving statistics for parents.

Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 106.3; overall length: 183.7; width: 70.6; height: 57.7
All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 1.4L turbo-charged four-cylinder – 153 hp at 5600 rpm and 177 lbs-ft of torque at 2000-4000 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed manual, six-speed automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 28 city/37 hwy. (manual), 30 city/40 hwy. (automatic)
Cargo capacity: 47.2 cubic feet

Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, front/rear roof mounted side-impact airbags, dual front seat knee airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, StabiliTrak vehicle stability control, daytime running lights, automatic headlamps, remote keyless entry, Bluetooth hands free phone system, OnStar communications system, automatic power door locks, engine immobilizer, alarm system, and tire pressure monitor.

Optional safety features include rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, fog lamps, rear park assist, side blind zone alert, navigation system, rear vision camera, and remote engine start.

Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback starts from $21,240 for the LT manual, $21,920 for the LT automatic and $23,945 for the Premier. Destination charges add $875.