The new model is expected to help increase the marque's opportunities for fleet sales

Chevrolet's managing director, Mark Terry, said: 'The hatchback version of the Cruze is a massively important new car for us, as it not only appeals on a retail level, but also massively increases Chevrolet’s appeal to the fleet market – alongside the Orlando and the new Captiva, and with a new Aveo just round the corner, we have a truly holistic model range that will appeal to fleet managers, user-choosers and retail customers alike.'

The Cruze hatchback is is offered in three trim levels, and three engine options – a 122bhp 1.6-litre engine, a 139bhp 1.8-litre petrol engine and a 160bhp 2.0 VCDi. The carmaker says further engine variants will follow, including a smaller-capacity diesel.

The entry-level LS model, equipped with the 1.6-litre petrol, features air con, remote locking, electric-front windows, follow-me-home headlights, electrically-adjustable heated door mirrors and a radio/CD player with auxiliary input.

The LT trim is priced from £14,895 OTR and is available with either the diesel or the petrol, with the option of an automatic gearbox for the petrol. This trim includes cruise control, electric windows all round, a multi-function trip computer, parking distance sensors, 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, steering wheel audio controls and a leather steering wheel and gearknob.

The top-level LTZ trim is offered with the choice of either the 1.8-litre petrol with five-speed manual or auto transmission or the diesel with a six-speed manual or six-speed auto gearbox. Starting at £16,095, the LTZ trim offers Bluetooth, a USB port, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, an electro-chromatic rear view mirror, 17-inch alloys and aluminium-effect trim on the instrument panel.

Top of the range is the LTZ with Executive Pack, which gets leather trim as standard, along with satellite navigation and heated front seats. Available only as a diesel, prices start at £19,295.