Chevrolet Lacetti

Chevy Lacetti getting in shape

We've caught Chevy's 'Ultra'-secret new car!

Auto Express Car Reviews

New Lacetti features creases along doors

By Chris Thorp

11th June 2007

Take a look at the world's first spy shots of the next-generation Lacetti, which shows how the Ultra WTCC concept has developed into a showroom-ready model. First revealed at last year's Paris Motor Show, the Ultra marked the start of Chevrolet's new design era, with the aim of establishing the brand as a mainstream marque.

The Lacetti's most striking feature is the rising shoulder line, with a sharp crease running along the doors. The Ultra's aggressive pointed front end has also been carried over and is just visible beneath the disguise.

It's clear from the rear picture that this model is a four-door. But when the new Lacetti goes on sale in the UK next year, it will only be offered in three and five-door versions. The saloon won't feature in the British line-up, due to limited demand.

While it is expected to keep the Lacetti badge, the new model will score points over the current car in all areas. That's thanks to its cutting-edge new platform, which it will share with Vauxhall's next-generation Astra. We have yet to get a glimpse of the new Chevy's cabin, but insiders say it's a match for leading rivals' interiors.

The Lacetti will first appear at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Details are yet to be announced, but the new model will use GM engines, including a powerful 2.0-litre diesel.