The new Chevrolet Cruze has been available in Asia and Europe for some months now, and it’s going to hit American market too pretty soon as Chevy releases details of the U.S. production version ahead of its official debut at L.A. Motor Show. Cruze has been developed with European standards and is expected to deliver segment-leading fuel economy and refined driving experience to American customers.
At launch, Cruze will come with choice of two four-cylinder engines, a 1.4 liter turbocharged and a 1.8 liter normally aspirated unit. They both deliver the same amount of power, 138hp and 200nm of torque for the 1.4 and 136hp with 167 nm for the 1.8, however the 1.4 turbo engine is expected to be more economical with over 40 MPG.
The car would challenge all of the American models hanglingwise, thanks to its advance suspension setup consisting of independent, MacPherson strut-type with side-loaded strut modules, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar (hollow); hydraulic ride bushings at front and specifically adapted compound crank (torsion beam) with double-walled, U-shaped profile at the rear, Z-link at the rear.
Chevy Cruze will be available in three different trim levels, LS, LT and LTZ. The standard features you get with all models include:
- Six-speed automatic and manual transmissions
- Ten standard air bags, including frontal, side-impact, roof rail head curtain, rear seat side air bags and new knee air bags
- Electronic stability control with rollover sensing
- Bluetooth, USB connectivity and navigation system
- XM Satellite Radio and OnStar
- MacPherson strut front suspension and Watts Z-link rear suspension, with a family of 16-, 17- and 18-inch wheels
- Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control, traction control and anti-lock brakes
- Fuel-saving, rack-mounted electric power steering
- Unexpected levels of quietness, smoothness and refinement for the segment
It also gets a new top-notch stereo system that includes MP3 playback capability, six speakers and an auxiliary jack for personal playback devices is standard. A premium Pioneer sound system is available, as is a USB port for iPod operation. Other available technologies include Bluetooth and a navigation system.
The car is fitted with 16-inch steel wheels as standard on LS and LT models, while 16-inch alloys are offered as an option. The LTZ models are fitted with 17-inch alloys as standard, but you can also order 18-inch alloys for it.
