2018 Chevrolet Cruze Leasing Brooklyn, Staten Island, New Jersey

The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze will be among the first models designed atop GM's new global compact car platform, making the next-generation car a little longer and roomier inside. The bad news: It won't be here for awhile. GM says additional engineering work will delay the new Cruze by about a year.

The Cruze is GM's best-selling car globally, so we don't expect a significant departure from current styling. Spy photos confirm the same basic proportions and greenhouse as the current model, with a slight overall aerodynamic smoothing of the Cruze's traditional angles. A slightly longer wheelbase, however, should increase rear seat space -- one of the current model's few drawbacks -- and trunk space.

A 1.5-liter four-cylinder from GM's new Ecotec engine family will likely replace the current 1.8-liter base engine. Although smaller, the new turbocharged four-cylinder shouldn't have trouble topping the current engine's 138 horsepower. Whether the Cruze needs a second small turbo four-cylinder leaves the future of the current car's optional 1.4-liter uncertain. The turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel introduced with the 2014 model year, however, is almost certain to carry over.

Top trim levels and diesel models could continue to offer a standard six-speed automatic transmission, while lower trim models get a six-speed manual. But the Cruze is also a likely candidate for GM's new in-house eight-speed automatic, currently in development and expected by the time the 2016 Cruze launches. Finally, as Chevy looks to grow its small-car momentum, hatchback and coupe versions are distinct possibilities for the U.S. market.