GM Adds Cruze Hatchback Assembly in Russia

VIENNA – General Motors Avto launches serial output of the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback at its plant in St. Petersburg, Russia.

The cars, powered by 1.6L or 1.8L gasoline engines, are assembled from complete-knocked-down kits sourced from South Korea. Several parts are sourced from Russia.

The first Russian-built Cruze hatchbacks will reach dealerships in January.

Russian assembly of the Cruze sedan started in September 2009. The facility also produces the Opel Astra hatchback.

Chevrolet ranks second in sales in Russia, behind Lada and before Hyundai, Kia, Renault and Nissan.

The brand sold 157,064 cars through November, up 51.5% from like-2010, and reached a 6.5% market share.

Chevrolet’s best-selling model in Russia in the year’s first 11 months was the Niva, with 47,792 units, followed by the Lacetti with 38,132 and Cruze with 34,012.