The Chevette was introduced in 1975 as a three-door hatchback (with four-door and estate versions following later) with the engine and transmission from the Viva. The Chevette was intended to provide 50mpg at 50mph and its success made a useful contribution towards Vauxhall's 1976 return from a £14M loss.

Originally conceived with better handling than ride, the Chevette was developed to feed into the world of competition and be more attractive to younger buyers. Ford were already very well established in motor sport but GM were traditionally reluctant to support a works team. The answer was the direct backing from Vauxhall Dealers instead - “Dealer Team Vauxhall” was to become emblazoned anywhere the marque was used in competition.

The road-going HS had a 135bhp, 2300cc, slant-four engine with a Getrag gearbox. Extended arches and wide, Minilite-style, wheels gave it the looks to match the performance. The homologation special Chevette used in rallies had Lotus heads and ZF gearboxes. The Viva driveline was beefed up with a better torque tube and larger brakes from the Cavalier.