Opel 3-cyl headed for 2016 Chevy Volt?

Tue, 13 Aug 2013

The Chevrolet Volt could be in for a significant redo in the next 18 to 24 months, according to a report from Automotive News. When the new model comes on line in late 2015 or early 2016, besides the regular spate of interior and exterior styling tweaks, the next Volt could feature a three-cylinder engine under its aerodynamic hood.

While AN thinks it's a 1.0- or 1.2-liter three-pot, Motor Trend is more definitive, claiming the new mill is the all-aluminum, turbocharged three that will arrive in the Opel Adam in 2014. In that setting, it will generate 115 horsepower and 122 pound-feet of torque. That's 31 horsepower more than the 1.4-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder in the current Volt.

New engines aren't the only change Automotive News thinks is coming to the Volt – a bespoke, lightweight platform will underpin the second-generation model. The hybrid currently shares its bones with the Chevy Cruze and Buick Verano, but a dedicated platform could help the Volt hit its future fuel economy targets.

By Brandon Turkus