#ChevyCruzeSs

Chevrolet is planning a more performance-oriented version of the Cruze compact sedan AutoGuide has learned. Sources inside the company have let slip that GM does intend to offer a more sporting version of its best-selling model, though as past reports have indicated, it won’t be badged as an SS.

Despite reports to the contrary, the team at Car & Driver are reporting Chevrolet has no plans to introduce a Cruze SS model. But that doesn’t mean a more powerful version isn’t in the cards.

With the launch of the new Chevy Cruze, rumors have already started popping up about a possible SS model. And why not; the Cobalt got an SS model and while the initial offering wasn’t overly special, the final turbocharged version was so impressive it could hand it to an EVO on a racetrack.

Chevy is getting set to expand its lineup of Cruze offerings with a high higher performance version of the compact car set to debut at the Beijing Auto Show at the end of the month. According to the China Car Times, a new model with a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder will be offered  the same engine that is currently offered in the Buick Excelle in China with 184-hp.

Chevy is reportedly considering building a 4-door coupe-style model based on the new Cruze. The idea would be to imitate what companies like Mercedes did when it built its 4-door coupe (the CLS), using an existing platform (the E-Class) and then add more style and jack up the price. Not only would it potentially allow for higher profit margins, but it would also work to draw in European and Japanese buyers into Chevy dealerships.