2011 Chevrolet Cruze Preview

Critical Knowledge:

• All-new entry in compact segment
• Developed by global design and engineering team
• Will be built in multiple locations
• Three engines: 1.6- and 1.8-liter VVT, and new 2.0-liter turbo-diesel
• 5-speed manual and all-new 6-speed automatic transmissions offered
• On sale in European markets in Spring 2009; other global regions to follow

See 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Pictures

Introduction
Chevrolet picked the Paris Motor Show for the worldwide premiere of its all-new compact sedan, the Cruze, which will go on sale first in Europe in March 2009. Why Europe? Chevrolet is GM Europe’s fastest-growing mainstream brand, with European sales up 23 percent in the first six months of 2008. The division expects the Cruze rollout to generate even more sales success in Europe, and create a buzz that carries over into other global markets as the car is introduced there with regionally-specific engine choices. As for North America, Cruze will be the replacement for the Chevy Cobalt, and will be a 2011 model. Cruze fits in the Chevrolet model lineup between the subcompact Aveo and the midsize Malibu.

Design
Developed by a global design and engineering team, the design of the Cruze is meant to be bold, not evolutionary, according to the all-new compact car’s Chief Designer, Taewan Kim. The car’s arching roof-line extends from a windshield with steep rake to rear pillars that slope to the back and a short rear deck, creating a compact sedan that looks like a well-proportioned coupé.

The car is longer (at 4.6 meters, or 181.1 inches) and wider than a majority of the competition, and will have plenty of space inside for 5 passengers and cargo. Chevy says the Cruze’s fit and finish for gaps and interfaces sets a new standard in the segment, not only in Europe, but around the world.

Hardware
By the European launch time, the Chevrolet Cruze will be available with three 4-cylinder engines: two gasoline engines and one diesel. Both the 16-valve, 1.6-liter engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both inlet and exhaust sides that produces 112 hp, and the 1.8-liter VVT engine delivering 140 hp, will help reduce emissions, the maker says. Chevy will also offer a new 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine that develops 150 hp for even more power and fuel economy.

The Cruze engines will be mated to 5-speed manual transmissions as well as an all-new automatic transmission—the first 6-speed automatic transmission in the compact segment, according to Chevy.

Safety
Chevrolet designed the all-new Cruze as the first in its new family of compact products that the division promises “will deliver world class quality, backed by expected highest scores in all major crash safety ratings.” That means a target of perfect 5 stars in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in all frontal, side-impact and rollover tests, as well as “Good” scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in frontal, side-impact, rear crash protection and head restraint ratings. Safety features on the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze include electronic stability and traction control, tire-pressure monitor, advanced dual-stage frontal air bags and GM passenger sensing system, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) and standard or optional additional safety technologies.

Technology
When the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze debuts, expect standard OnStar 8.0, including GM Advanced Crash Response System, with available Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Destination Download, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, and standard XM satellite radio with new NavTraffic feature.—Suzanne Kane