Auto123.com - Helping you drive happy

2010 New York Autoshow: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco

|
Get the best interest rate
Khatir Soltani
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.

Photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.com

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 to include 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.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada