Chevrolet Cruze (J300) 2008-2015

[IBrake4Rainbows]

It is an average vehicle, certainly.

But having experienced one first hand (having test drove it for a prospective purchase for my sister) It's a competant, inoffensive, and modern looking vehicle, that is very keenly priced at the moment, not bad to drive (understeery and I thought the pillars were a bit chunky, wrecking the view out), but certainly not a horrific scenario.

And I fit in it, which is more than I can say for the Fiat Bravo I had the misfortune of folding myself into at the Motorshow.

There are more capable solutions out there (the Mazda3 being an example that comes to mind) but overall It's a recommendable vehicle. But it is an owners car, not a drivers car.

[wwgkd]

What a shame you don't like small cars guys. Because this is considered average at most here. It's not particularly interesting, innovative or revolutionary.

Keep in mind we don't get all the cars you do, whether we like them or not.

It is an average vehicle, certainly.

But having experienced one first hand (having test drove it for a prospective purchase for my sister) It's a competant, inoffensive, and modern looking vehicle, that is very keenly priced at the moment, not bad to drive (understeery and I thought the pillars were a bit chunky, wrecking the view out), but certainly not a horrific scenario.

And I fit in it, which is more than I can say for the Fiat Bravo I had the misfortune of folding myself into at the Motorshow.

There are more capable solutions out there (the Mazda3 being an example that comes to mind) but overall It's a recommendable vehicle. But it is an owners car, not a drivers car.

This. It doesn't have to be brilliant to be good. Also remember that the Cobalt SS (turbo version) was surprisingly fast at the track, a complete transformation from the regular versions. A look at some of car and driver's lightning lap times was enough to convince me that they need to do more of this.

[Ferrer]

Keep in mind we don't get all the cars you do, whether we like them or not.

I meant you as in general North America, not personally. It's like American's aversions to hatches and estates.

[wwgkd]

I meant you as in general North America, not personally. It's like American's aversions to hatches and estates.

I don't get why SUVs, especially the car based ones, are so popular and wagon's aren't. A car based SUV is essentially a wagon with a worse CG. How is that more desirable?

I kind of get why small cars aren't more popular, but if you have two cars then both don't have to be big enough to comfortably take the entire family on a 3 week trip.

[Ferrer]

I don't get why SUVs, especially the car based ones, are so popular and wagon's aren't. A car based SUV is essentially a wagon with a worse CG. How is that more desirable?

I guess estate cars have a estigmatised image in the US. That and the fuel prices. With cheap fuel it doesn't matter if your car has an abysmal fuel consumption.

I kind of get why small cars aren't more popular, but if you have two cars then both don't have to be big enough to comfortably take the entire family on a 3 week trip.

Well I think it's entirely related to the space. You've got a lot, so you have big cars. We have less so we've got mid-sized cars. Japan hasn't got any so they have kei cars.

[baddabang]

Having driven a base model cobalt for the last 3 years, this is a considerable improvement. Then again this is probably an LTZ version as they rarely photograph the base models...

[iwmakemh]

I myself like hatches and station wagons. Whoever said most cars in the us are mid sized cars is right most are. I also don't understand why crossovers are more popular here than station wagons. Cross overs are inexcusably ugly.

[Ferrer]

Chevrolet Cruze Eco: Hybrid-Like Fuel Efficiency Without The Price Tag

NEW YORK – At the New York Auto Show, Chevrolet reveals the compact 2011 Cruze Eco. This high-efficiency model is powered by a 1.4L Ecotec turbocharged engine with variable valve timing that achieves an estimated 40 mpg on the highway when combined with a six-speed manual transmission. Cruze Eco is expected to deliver the best fuel economy in the compact segment, while offering midsize car presence.

“The Cruze Eco delivers hybrid-like efficiency without the price tag,” said Jim Campbell, U.S. vice president Chevrolet marketing. “Along with the Volt electric vehicle, it demonstrates how Chevrolet is working to bring new products to market that range from gas-friendly to gas-free.”

Chevrolet also shows an optional RS sport appearance package for the Cruze LT and LTZ trim levels.

Cruze is the first in a family of all-new Chevrolet small and compact cars designed to offer excellent fuel economy, outstanding quality and top safety ratings. Cruze models for the United States and Canada will be produced at the Lordstown, Ohio assembly complex. In February, Chevrolet announced the addition of a third shift at Lordstown that will add 1,200 workers to support a smooth, fast and flawless ramp-up of Cruze production. More than $350 million has been invested to re-tool the plant and add new, state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment.

“This investment helps secure the best possible manufacturing footprint to react to market demand and deliver vehicles faster to our customers,” said Campbell. “We believe Cruze is the right car at the right time for American consumers.”

Cruze Eco details

Featuring a 1.4L Ecotec turbocharged engine with variable valve timing, the Cruze Eco is designed to be the most fuel-efficient model in the lineup, delivering an estimated 40 mpg on the highway with the standard six-speed manual transmission. City fuel economy, as well as estimates for the Cruze Eco equipped with an available six-speed automatic transmission, will be finalized closer to launch.

The Eco achieves greater fuel economy using a number of features that enhance its aerodynamics, minimize weight and reduce rolling resistance. Details include:

A lower front grille air shutter that closes at higher speeds to improve aerodynamics and opens at lower speeds to optimize engine-cooling airflow
The upper grille has more “closeouts” to improve aerodynamics
A lower front air dam extension, extensive use of underbody panels and a rear spoiler enhance aerodynamics
A lowered ride height improves aerodynamics
Unique 17-inch lightweight aluminum wheels
Ultra-low rolling resistance 17-inch Goodyear tires.
The axle ratio on the manual-transmission model is also optimized for fuel economy, while helping the car deliver confident performance. Chevrolet estimates the Cruze Eco will deliver 0-60 mph performance of about 10 seconds with the manual transmission and 9 seconds with the six-speed automatic.

The Cruze Eco will be available in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Cruze RS details

Complementing Cruze’s sporty proportions is an optional RS appearance package for the LT and LTZ trim levels, which bolsters the car’s styling with unique fascias, rocker moldings, rear spoiler and fog lamps. An uplevel instrument cluster is also part of the package and includes chrome accent rings in place of the standard silver finish, as well as opaque cluster bezels that allow the cluster’s ice blue backlighting to shine through – providing a sporty nighttime appearance.

"For customers who want even more personality and presence in their vehicle, the RS appearance package builds on the already bold face and coupe-like proportions of the Cruze,” said Michael Simcoe, executive director, North American Exterior Design.

Midsize presence in the compact segment

All Cruze models offer the spaciousness and amenities of a midsize car, combined with segment-leading features and details that challenge preconceived notions about what a compact car can be in North America.

Along with the Eco, the 2011 Cruze will be offered in LS, LT and LTZ trims. Standard and available equipment includes:

Ten standard air bags, including frontal, front-seat side-impact air bags, roof rail head curtain, rear-seat side air bags and new front knee air bags
Bluetooth, USB connectivity, XM Satellite Radio and navigation system
Standard OnStar with one year of Directions and Connections service
MacPherson strut front suspension and Z-link rear suspension, with 16-, 17- and 18-inch wheels
Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control and anti-lock brakes
Fuel-saving, rack-mounted electric power steering
Unexpected levels of quietness, smoothness and refinement for the segment.
All models share an interior characterized by upscale materials and a lengthy roster of equipment usually found in larger and more expensive vehicles. Available technologies include Bluetooth and a navigation system.

Cruze’s 1.4L Ecotec turbo performs like a larger engine when needed, but retains the efficiency of a small-displacement four-cylinder in most driving conditions; it is standard on Eco, LT and LTZ models. Rated at an estimated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm), it enables a cruising range of more than 500 miles (800 km). Cruze will lead the way for Chevrolet in the use of small-displacement, turbocharged Ecotec engines that are highly fuel-efficient and power vehicles that are fun to drive.

Standard on LS models is a 1.8L Ecotec four-cylinder rated at an estimated 136 horsepower (184 kW) and 123 lb.-ft. of torque (166 Nm). Both engines are designed with fuel efficiency in mind, including technology such as variable valve timing that optimizes performance and fuel economy.

Backing the Cruze’s engines are six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Each contributes to excellent fuel economy.

Chevrolet engineers have already logged more than 4 million miles in quality and durability testing worldwide, making Cruze one of the most real world-tested products prior to a U.S. launch. It is backed by Chevrolet’s five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty – the best coverage in America.

[Ferrer]

Chevrolet Cruze #6

[Ferrer]

Cruze hatchback adds value and unique style to compact segment

Segment: Compact
Start of sales: Summer 2011

With the arrival of the Cruze hatchback, Chevrolet will be present in full force on Europe's hard-fought market for compact cars. The Cruze hatchback will have the same qualities associated with the slightly longer sedan, while offering customers an alternative body-style to the award-winning sedan – last year's best seller in Chevrolet's vehicle range.

Later in the model year, an all-new 1.7 liter diesel engine will complement the line-up of 1.6 and 1.8 liter gasoline and 2.0 liter turbo diesel engines already available with the Cruze sedan. All engines except for the 1.7 liter diesel can be matched with either manual or automatic transmissions. The 1.6 and 1.8 liter gasoline engines deliver 124 hp at 6,400 rpm and 141 hp at 6,200 rpm, respectively.

The 2.0 liter turbo-diesel engine, meanwhile, displays impressive fuel economy – 5.6 liters/100 km over the combined cycle – and has a maximum power output of 163 hp at 3,800 rpm. The most frugal of all engines, however, is the new 1.7 diesel. Over a combined cycle, this engine consumes a mere 4.3 liters per 100 kilometers while emitting 115 g of CO2 per km*.

Sporting an attractive sloping roofline, concave shoulder lines that run along the sides of the car, and short overhangs at both the front and rear, the Cruze hatchback conveys the same dynamic stance as the sedan. The design of the hatchback's rear section includes a spoiler with integrated stop lamp which has been fitted to the upper perimeter of the rear window for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. The rear bumper features a large cavity with the number plate and incorporates a rear fog lamp on the left and a back-up lamp on the right hand-side.

Chevrolet's traditional dual cockpit, flowing, uninterrupted lines and tight gap tolerances are the key characteristics of the Cruze hatchback's interior. Both the Cruze sedan and hatchback have more amenities and technology features than any previous GM compact car in the value segment. Aux audio connections for iPod/MP3 are standard, optional comfort features may include, but are not limited to, an SD card-updated navigation system, USB audio connectivity and steering wheel audio controls.

The hatchback will come with standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and 6 airbags.

Key to the car's safety design, but also to its ride and handling quality, is its highly rigid body structure with strategically applied high-strength steels. A wide track of 1,544 mm (front) and 1,558 mm (rear), respectively, provides first-rate traction while hydraulic suspension bushings and an 'isolated' mounting for the front sub-frame contribute to the vehicle's running refinement.

[Ferrer]

The long awaited hatchback... does anyone know anything about this 1.7 litre diesel? Is it Isuzu's?

[Kitdy]

Pretty nice ass, except for the silly hatchback wingesque thingy.

EDIT: The 2L diesel is made by VM Motori. I looked into this but could not find any answers yet.

[ruim20]

The long awaited hatchback... does anyone know anything about this 1.7 litre diesel? Is it Isuzu's?

Probably the Izuzu with 125bhp, or higher in this 'new' version.

[Ferrer]

The perfect match for families and high-octane individuals

Start of sales: Summer 2012

The Cruze station wagon, the latest bodystyle of Chevrolet's top selling nameplate, celebrated its world premiere at the 82nd International Geneva Motor Show. Immediately recognizable as a new variant of the Chevrolet Cruze, it complements the sedan and hatchback versions, which together have sold more than one million units globally since the carline's launch in 2009.

Thanks to its large and flexible cargo space, the station wagon naturally appeals to families, but also to people who want a compact car with more carrying capacity to fit an active lifestyle. At 4,675 mm, the Cruze station wagon is slightly longer than the hatchback (4,510 mm) and sedan (4,597 mm) models. Load space ranges from 500 liters up to the window line in the rear to nearly 1,500 liters up to the roof top with the rear seats folded down.

The exterior design features a single arch roofline that tapers off and contributes to a drag coefficient of 0.34. The vehicle, which comes with roof racks as standard, has a poised and sporty look. A number of styling changes will be introduced in 2012 for all Cruze models. The most significant design change can be found in the remodeled front fascia, modified head-lamp interiors and fog lamps, and new wheel styles. The design of the interior remains largely unchanged from the Cruze hatchback version, apart from additional refinements to the center console depending on the choice of radio, and a greater choice of seat finishes.

A choice of five powertrains will be available for the Cruze. A new 1.4L turbo gasoline, a new 1.7L diesel and a 2.0L diesel engine with start-stop technology will complement the current 1.6L and 1.8L gasoline engines.

The turbo-charged 1.4L gasoline engine, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, delivers 140 hp @ 6,000 rpm. The much-anticipated manual 1.7L diesel churns out 130 hp @ 4,000 rpm, produces CO2 emissions of 119 g/km and boasts a fuel consumption of 4.5 liters per 100 km*. The 1.4L gasoline, 1.7L diesel and 2.0L diesel (manual transmission) engines will come with start-stop technology as standard.

New Cruzes are available with keyless entry, enabling the driver to access the vehicle with the key safely tucked away in a bag or pocket. Additionally, the system allows the engine to be turned on or off by pressing a button without the need to insert the key into the ignition. The Cruze station wagon will be also available with a rear-view camera and a new cluster display that includes eco-drive assistance menus for vehicles equipped with Start-Stop functionality.

A brand new infotainment system, called Chevrolet MyLink, will be launched in higher trim levels of the Cruze line-up as of summer 2012. Chevrolet MyLink aggregates content from smartphones onto the seven-inch diagonal, high-resolution, full-color touch-screen display. Compatible devices can be connected via USB or Bluetooth. There is also a dedicated plug-in outlet for certain personal music devices and smartphones that do not use USB or Bluetooth connections.

Once the smartphone is connected, personal playlists, photo galleries, phone books, videos and other stored media and data, such as a special navigation app, can be accessed through the touch-screen. The seven-inch color-touch-screen infotainment system is produced by LG Electronics.

Safety is a priority, which is why the station wagon is fitted with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TC), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution, and six front and rear airbags. The Cruze sedan, like five other Chevrolet carlines, has been awarded a five-star safety rating by the European New Car Assessment Program (EuroNCAP).

[Ferrer]

Chevrolet Cruze #9