We won’t see it in person until the curtain is lifted at the North American International Auto Show but today Chevrolet introduced the 2017 Cruze Hatchback giving customers a sportier choice that will likely compete with the Mazda3 and Hyundai Elantra GT.

Here’s what we know so far.

Unique to the Cruze Hatchback buyers will find:

• 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat
• 47.2 cubic feet of space with the rear seat folded
• a unique roof and rear-end structure – including wraparound taillamps and an integrated spoiler at the top of the lift gate.

Features of both the Cruze and Cruze Hatchback include:

• Segment-exclusive standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility via the MyLink radio systems and available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot
• More standard safety features than any other compact car – including Corolla and Civic – with available adaptive features including Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Park Assist
• Available Teen Driver feature helps support safe driving habits and offers driving statistics for parents
• Standard 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection and Stop/Start technologies, electric power steering and, on Premier models, a Z-link rear suspension
• Interior with midsize-level roominess, including two inches greater rear legroom than Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra
• 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.

The 2017 Cruze Hatchback will go on sale in fall 2016.

images courtesy of Chevrolet