Qoros 3 Hatch to Make Global Debut at 2014 Geneva Motor Show
Qoros confirms its second production model, the 3 Hatch, will premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2014, expanding the brand’s compact line-up.
Qoros will reveal its new 3 Hatch at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March, marking the Chinese-Israeli brand’s second production model and its first foray into the European hatchback segment. The 3 Hatch shares its platform and much of its engineering with the Qoros 3 Sedan, which achieved the highest Euro NCAP safety score of 2013.
The 3 Hatch is aimed at European and Chinese buyers looking for a compact five-door with a focus on safety and value. Qoros positions the Hatch as a practical alternative to established European rivals, promising a similar level of safety to its saloon sibling, along with a choice of modern petrol engines and competitive pricing.
Engines and Performance
Buyers will have a choice of two 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engines. The entry-level unit produces 126hp and 155Nm, paired to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. With this setup, the 3 Hatch accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 11.6 seconds. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) is available, which slightly increases the 0-100km/h time to 12.6 seconds. Fuel consumption for the manual is rated at 6.3L/100km, while the DCT version is marginally more efficient at 6.1L/100km.
A turbocharged 1.6-litre engine sits at the top of the range, delivering 156hp and 210Nm of torque between 1,750 and 5,000rpm. This engine is only offered with the six-speed DCT, enabling a 0-100km/h sprint in 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 210km/h. Combined fuel consumption is listed as 6.5L/100km.
| 1.6-litre petrol (manual) | 126hp, 155Nm, 0-100km/h in 11.6s, 6.3L/100km |
|---|---|
| 1.6-litre petrol (DCT) | 126hp, 155Nm, 0-100km/h in 12.6s, 6.1L/100km |
| 1.6-litre turbo petrol (DCT) | 156hp, 210Nm, 0-100km/h in 9.7s, 6.5L/100km |
Safety and Production
Qoros is keen to highlight the 3 Hatch’s safety credentials, drawing on the success of the 3 Sedan, which was named the safest car tested by Euro NCAP in 2013. The hatchback is expected to offer similar protection, targeting buyers who prioritise occupant safety in the compact class.
Production of the 3 Hatch will take place in Changshu, China, alongside the 3 Sedan. Qoros aims to use the Geneva debut to attract attention from European buyers and industry observers, positioning itself as a credible new entrant in a segment dominated by established brands. The 3 Hatch will compete with models such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, but Qoros is counting on strong safety credentials and value to carve out a niche.
