Although not many Americans fancy themselves hatchback lovers, Europeans just so happen to love some five-door automotive action. With these types of people in mind, Chevrolet has unveiled the first details on the hatchback version for the new Cruze which we heard about a few days ago when their Australian brother, Holden, let it slip during an interview. Its official debut will be made at the Paris Motor Show with sales in Europe beginning in mid 2011.
In order to transform the Cruze into a lean, mean hatchback machine, Chevrolet has built it on the new body-frame integral system (BFI) which offers high levels of stability and solidity. The vehicle will also change with the help of a sweeping coupe roofline and short overhangs at the front and rear of the car. This new format allows for 400 liters cargo capacity and 60/40 split rear seating.
Chevrolet did not announced the engine line-up, but we expect to see the same choices as in the sedan version: a Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine, standard on the LT and LTZ models, and an Ecotec 1.8L four-cylinder engine for the LS models.
Wayne Brannon, president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe, knows that, when it comes to Europeans, the money is in a good hatchback. He says, " Hatchbacks play a critical role in many markets. The total compact segment in Europe represents around 4.8 million units which is over a quarter of the total market, with hatchbacks representing around 65% of that volume. We therefore expect to see increased business in a number of regions, while sending out a signal that Chevrolet is now a serious mainstream player in Europe."
Prices for the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback will be released closer to its actual launch date.
Press release after the jump.
Full story
The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze was unveiled at the 2010 Los Angeles Motor Show and Chevrolet will make good use of the next major motor show, the Paris Auto Show, by revealing the hatchback version for the latest model in their line-up. A first concept version of the hatchback Cruze will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and will most likely be followed by a production version.
The confirmation was made by the maker’s Australian brother, Holden: "There will be some exciting news coming out of the Paris motor show and the Chevy reveals for the Australian market." However, Holden would only say that it was too early to confirm the presence of the Cruze five-door at the Paris show, preferring to leave official announcements to Chevrolet .
The production version will be built on the Delta II platform and will be revealed in the second half of 2011.
We have to remind you that at the same show, we will also see production versions of the Chevrolet Aveo and the Chevrolet Orlando.
So this is what happens when you allow engineers to do whatever they please. Left alone with the new Chevrolet Cruze, they began to make sweet music with different areas of the new sedan that will look to put General Motors back into the midsize segment.
If you’re interested in watching a few engineers clown around, but at the same time see how stuff works, than this video is for you. From the doors to the trunk to the wipers, nothing is off limits to these guys.
Apparently, the video was shot at the Milford Proving Grounds in what looks to be a bunker. It also looks as if the video is attempting to show us that the Cruze has sensational build quality, unlike previous GM sedans. It’s a pretty good attempt, as the video is entertaining and informative at the same time.
Hit the jump to watch the GM video.
Full story
Chevrolet UK has unveiled a new CS race-inspired option pack for the Cruze sedan today. It will be available for all trim levels and engine variants and adds a price of £1,595 over the sedan’s price total. The new Cruze CS will be available starting mid July.
The CS package includes 18-inch white multi-spoke alloy wheels, lowered suspension, a boot spoiler, unique CS graphics, and matching tailored carpet mats. These options are added to the standard follow-me-home lighting, remote central locking, a CD-radio system with auxiliary input, premium soft-touch interior plastics, and electric windows.
For the UK market, the Cruze is offered in three trim levels: S, LS and LT. It also comes in three engine versions: 1.6 S with a total output of 113 HP, 1.8 liter, or a 2.0 liter diesel powerplant. The engines can be coupled to a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Press release after the jump.
Full story
Chevrolet will bring the production version of the 2011 Cruze at the Los Angeles Auto Show next week. The new compact sedan will be offered in three different trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ and will go on sale in the third quarter of 2010.
The Cruze’s exterior is characterized by a a two-tier grille with Chevy logo, prominent headlamps, a sculpted hood, as well as a short rear deck typically found on sports coupes. On the interior Chevrolet opted for a Corvette-inspired twin-cockpit matched with high-quality materials.
The new sedan will be offered with a Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine standard on the LT and LTZ models and an Ecotec 1.8L four-cylinder one for the LS models. Both engines can be coupled to a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Updated 06/03/2010: Chevrolet today announced prices for the 2011 Cruze that will go on sale in September. The new mid-size sedan will be offered in four trim levels: Cruze LS starting at $16,995, Cruze LT starting at $18,895, Cruze Eco starting at $18,895 and Cruze LTZ starting at $22,695. Depending on the trim level, standard equipment list includes: cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port with audio interface, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and remote vehicle start.
Press release after the jump.
Full story
