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From the album: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
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From the album: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
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From the album: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
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From the album: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
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From the album: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
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From the album: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
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This evening at a event in Detroit, Chevrolet unveiled the second-generation Cruze. The new Cruze looks like a shrunken-down version of the Malibu with similar profiles. There is a reason to this as Cruze was styled only a few feet away from the new Malibu. The Cruze features such details as a lower front end, mesh grilles, and distinctive character lines. Size-wise, the Cruze is slightly larger than current model with overall length up 2.7 inches (183.7 inches vs. 181 inches) and the wheelbase is up 0.6 inches (106.3 inches vs. 105.7 inches). The interior has been updated with more soft-touch materials, and the latest version of Chevrolet's MyLink which offers compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Rear legroom is increased to 36.4 inches, but worryingly headroom sees a slight decrease by half an inch. Power for the Cruze comes from all-new turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder with 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. A choice of either a manual or automatic, both six-speeds, helps get the power to the front wheels. Chevrolet has also cut a bit of weight out of the Cruze - 250 lbs to be exact, which allows the Cruze to achieve 40 MPG on the highway and a total range of 530 Miles. There is also a diesel option coming, but not until 2017. The 2016 Cruze arrives at Chevrolet dealers early next year. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 Sophisticated Sophomore: All-New 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Larger and lighter; all-new compact car is more agile with a dynamic driving experience All-new, standard 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection offers a GM-estimated 40 mpg highway; stop/start technology contributes to efficiency in stop-and-go driving New Chevrolet MyLink offers better performance, plus compatibility with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, for smart, simple smartphone integration Advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert On sale in the U.S. in early 2016; diesel model follows in 2017 DETROIT – Chevrolet today introduced the all-new 2016 Cruze – a larger and lighter, more efficient and more sophisticated evolution of the brand’s best-selling global car. Packed with new technologies such as available Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and new active safety features, as well as a more spacious interior and an athletic, aerodynamically optimized design, the 2016 Cruze elevates the compact car segment – from San Francisco to Shanghai and from Boston to Buenos Aeries. It will be offered in more than 40 global markets and goes on sale first in North America in early 2016. A new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine with direct injection and an SAE-certified 153 horsepower (113 kW) helps enable a General Motors-estimated 40 mpg on the highway with the available six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology helps enhance the Cruze’s efficiency in stop-and-go driving. The new turbo engine and a leaner architecture that reduces up to 250 pounds (113 kg) also contribute to the new Cruze’s stronger performance, with expected 0-60-mph acceleration of eight seconds. “The 2016 Cruze builds on a very successful program that introduced Chevrolet to new customers the world over,” said Alan Batey, president, General Motors North America. “We retained all the attributes that made the original Cruze a hit around the globe and built on them to make this car more sophisticated, more fun and more Chevrolet.” Vehicle highlights include: Next-generation Chevrolet MyLink with smartphone integration capability, including a standard seven-inch-diagonal screen and available eight-inch-diagonal screen (at launch, eight-inch screen only with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto coming later) New 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection and stop/start technology matched with a standard six-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission (North America) Maximum highway range of 530 miles per tank All-new, stronger and lighter body structure enhances agility, efficiency and safety – with an approximately 250-pound (113 kg) lower curb weight Class-leading 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase enhances roominess, contributing to greater rear-seat legroom and more rear knee room Projector headlamps with light-emitting diode (LED) signature lighting – and LED daytime running lamps on uplevel models More standard features than most competitors’ small cars such as 10 air bags, four-wheel disc brakes, rearview camera and available OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot New, available features including wireless phone charging, heated rear leather seats and heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel Available advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert New model range for North America including L, LS, LT and Premier – and a more expressive RS package. “The new Cruze is truly one of Chevrolet’s most global vehicles,” said Batey. “With content variations dictated mostly by local market demands, customers in every corner of the globe will enjoy the same fundamental dynamics that are making Chevrolet one of the fastest-growing brands around the world.” In 2017, Chevrolet will introduce a new diesel model for U.S. customers that builds on the success of the current Cruze diesel model. Wind tunnel-optimized design The 2016 Cruze’s expressive design balances the designers’ inspiration and the efficiency-optimizing input of wind tunnel testing – leveraging the aero experience of vehicles including the Volt. The result is one of the sleekest-looking cars in the class, with a 0.29 coefficient of drag – an attribute that contributes directly to a GM-estimated 40 mpg on the highway. Proportionally, the new Cruze is 2.7 inches (68 mm) longer and nearly an inch (25 mm) shorter in height than the current model, giving it a longer and leaner appearance. A faster windshield rake and a faster-sloping rear profile lend a sportier look to the design, while the rear profile culminates in a standard integral rear spoiler that contributes to the car’s aero efficiency. The sleek profile is complemented by detailed, layered line work in the hood and body-side panels, contributing to an overall impression of muscularity – with an athletic stance enhanced by a longer wheelbase. “With styling influenced by the acclaimed 2014 Impala and all new Malibu, the 2016 Cruze brings Chevrolet’s new, expressive global design language to the small car segment,” said John Cafaro, executive director, Chevrolet Design. “The Cruze’s approach to proportion and premium details adds to Chevrolet’s elevation of craftsmanship, content, quality and a fresh interpretation of an identity that is unmistakably Chevrolet in every market around the world.” The headlamps sweep back into the front fenders and an expressive, stacked dual-port grille design offers upscale attention to detail. LT and Premier models feature premium forward lighting systems, including projector-beam headlamps and LED signature daytime running lamps. Additional design details include: The center-rear stop lamp is mounted at the top of the roof line for a more refined appearance Seamless rocker panels convey upscale attention to detail and contribute to aerodynamic performance Polished aluminum, piano black and bright-finished accents provide a more contemporary, upscale aura to the design The RS package includes unique grilles, front and rear fascias, fog lamps, front splitter, rocker panels, rear spoiler and 18-inch wheels on the Premier model. Roomier, more-connected passenger space With greater spaciousness and technology, the 2016 Cruze’s interior is designed to be more comfortable and a better connected environment for the driver and passengers. The greater spaciousness includes more rear legroom (36.1 inches / 917 mm) and two inches (51 mm) more rear knee room – more than Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra. Beyond the quantifiable, there’s greater perceptual spaciousness in the new Cruze, driven by flowing line work in the instrument panel, which blends almost seamlessly with the front door panels. Like the exterior, the Cruze’s interior – and the instrument panel in particular – feature lean, muscular and layered surfaces built around the Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit theme. It’s a thoroughly modern design that emphasizes human-technology interaction through the prominent, standard MyLink screen in the “center stack.” A mixture of accents, from piano black and matte black finishes to bright trim, along with more premium features such as available heated rear leather seats and wireless phone charging, complement the cabin with an upscale ambience generally reserved for midsize sedans – but one that is becoming increasingly important to customers around the globe who want premium amenities in smaller vehicles. Additional interior features and amenities include: Unique center console design for North America with specific user interface details such as a repositioned shifter, more intuitive positioning of the cup holders and enhanced storage More soft-touch surfaces and animal-grained, micro-etched surfacing that enhance the premium look and feel of the interior, as well as premium fabrics with French stitching, distinctive for its contrasting stitch colors. Premium leather is available 4.2-inch-diagonal high-resolution driver information center in the gauge cluster Premium features including heated front cloth seats, heated rear leather-trimmed seats, and heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Through smartphone integration, Cruze’s all-new Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the Cruze’s seven-inch-diagonal color touchscreen, allowing them to call up music, navigation apps and more. An uplevel MyLink radio with an eight-inch display and navigation is available and also incorporates Apple CarPlay. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features owners want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. This allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay-supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Apple CarPlay is compatible with iOS 7.1 or higher. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at g.co/androidauto. Android Auto requires a phone running an Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or higher. Using both applications is simple. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply. Complementing MyLink to enhance Cruze’s connectivity is available OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Larger, lighter and more dynamic An all-new, more rigid and lighter architecture is the 2016 Cruze’s foundation for driving dynamism, while also playing significant roles in safety and efficiency. It is constructed of about 8-percent hot-stamped/high-strength steels, which contributes to an approximately 27-percent stiffer body structure that is also 53 pounds (24 kg) lighter than the current Cruze. The lighter structure is also larger than the current model, with the new Cruze’s 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase stretching nearly an inch longer, while supporting front and rear suspensions with wide tracks (60.8-inch front/61.3-inch rear). Aluminum is used strategically in the suspension systems to optimize weight and handling characteristics. “The Cruze’s chassis system is perhaps the most mass-efficient in the segment,” said Ron Arnesen, executive chief engineer. “It is at the core of the car’s dynamic driving character, which is designed to deliver fun with an enhanced feeling of connectivity.” Additionally, the new, more rigid architecture is the primary enabler for exceptional chassis tuning, affording more nimble and direct steering and handling attributes that foster driving confidence through precision. The longer wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks further contribute to a lower, wide “footprint,” which enhances agility and the feeling of control. Additional features include: A proven MacPherson strut front suspension design with specially tuned bushings and geometry intended to balance handling with comfort A torsion beam rear axle on L, LS and LT models; and an enhanced Z-link design on Premier. It helps deliver a more balanced driving experience, as the rear suspension better follows the lead of the front suspension Rack-mounted electric power steering is standard on all models. It enhances efficiency because it removes the conventional power steering pump from the engine’s driven accessories Four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife longer-life rotors are standard on all models StabiliTrak electronic stability control, with traction control, rollover mitigation and anti-lock brakes, is standard Wheel sizes ranging from 15 to 18 inches. Power-dense, efficient turbocharged powertrain In North America, the 2016 Cruze is driven by an all-new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine derived from GM’s new family of small gas engines. It features direct injection, stop/start technology and is matched with a standard six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology helps enhance efficiency in stop-and-go driving. The new 1.4L turbo is SAE-certified at 153 horsepower (113 kW) and 177 lb-ft of torque (240 Nm). With more torque than the current Cruze’s 1.4L turbo and a lighter architecture, the new turbocharged engine is expected to deliver segment-best 0-60 performance of 8 seconds. That makes the new Cruze quicker than most competitors, while also beating most of them at the gas pump, with a GM-estimated 40 mpg on the highway with automatic transmission. The 1.4L turbo features an aluminum cylinder block and head, which helps reduce the Cruze’s overall weight to enhance performance and efficiency. Engine efficiency is also enhanced through reduced friction, including low-friction piston rings, a low-friction camshaft drive and a low-friction oil pump. The start/stop feature automatically shuts down the engine when the car comes to a stop under certain driving conditions, such as a stoplight. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake. Advanced safety features The 2016 Cruze’s safety story begins with the new, stronger body structure that incorporates high-strength steel in key areas to enhance strength and crash protection by helping to prevent intrusion into passenger compartment. Cruze also returns with a segment-leading 10 standard air bags, including frontal driver and passenger air bags, roof rail-mounted head curtain side air bags that help protect the front and outboard rear seating positions; seat-mounted side-impact air bags (front and rear); and front knee air bags. Available safety features include an expanded range of crash-avoidance technologies, including Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert. Additional safety features include: Front passenger seat occupant sensing system and rollover sensing and protection system Collapsible pedal assembly to help protect against lower-extremity injuries Three-point safety belts in all five seating positions, safety belt retractor pretensioners and lap pretensioners in the driver and front-passenger positions, and safety belt load limiters (with pretensioners) in the front safety belt retractors LATCH child seat latching system in the rear seat Tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lamps Automatic headlamps. Manufacturing For the United States, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze will be built at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant, with locally and globally sourced components. The plant received a $50-million investment in tooling and other enhancements to support the new Cruze’s production. -
Next-Generation Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback Is Shown To Dealers
William Maley posted an article in Chevrolet
A couple years back, then General Motors' North American president, Mark Reuss said “That was a pre-bankruptcy planning mistake,” when asked why Chevrolet didn't sell the Cruze Hatchback in North America. That appears to changing with the next-generation Cruze. Automotive News reports that Chevrolet showed off a Cruze Hatchback at its national dealer meeting in Las Vegas last week. According to sources, the model was billed as a 2016 model, but a launch date wasn't announced. Chevrolet will be revealing the 2016 Cruze at a media event this week with sales starting sometime in the first quarter of next year. Automotive News guesses sales of the hatchback could start sometime there after. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
There appears to be three different Chevrolet Cruzes in play; the refreshed 2015 Cruze, the Chinese market Cruze, and the upcoming 2016 Cruze that was recently caught by a spy photographer. Caught undisguised, the 2016 Cruze shares a number of design items with the Chinese-market version that give it a somewhat tidy, if somewhat boring design. The front end wears a nose that is similar to the Sonic with the spilt grille and sculpted hood. The overall profile reminds us of the current Honda Civic. What is still unknown is what will power the next Cruze, but one or more of the engines from the Next-Generation Ecotec family going into production later this year is most likely. We expect to learn about that in the coming year or so. Source: Automobile Magazine William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
Chevrolet has revealed their second New York Auto Show showing last night and it happens to be the 2015 Cruze. Now for those who were expecting the automaker to launch the next-generation model will be disappointed as the 2015 model is a refresh. The new model isn't expected for a little longer. Changes for the 2015 model begin with a larger front grille and reshaped taillights. LT and LTZ models get LED running lights mounted below the headlights. Inside is where the big changes are. The Cruze's infotainment system now can read text messages to the driver, has Apple's Siri Eyes Free voice controls if you have an iPhone, and a 4G LTE connection that allows the vehicle to act as a wi-fi hotspot. No mechanical changes have been announced. Pricing and other details will be announced at a later time. Update: I've added a couple shots from the NYIAS floor. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 Styling, OnStar 4G LTE, Siri Updates for 2015 Chevy Cruze Chevy's best-selling car is smarter looking, offers greater connectivity NEW YORK Chevrolet announced today the 2015 Cruze will debut at the New York International Auto Show with revised exterior styling, enhanced interior convenience and greater connectivity including new Text Message Alerts, Apple Siri integration and OnStar 4G LTE with available Wi-Fi hotspot. The new exterior styling cues are inspired by the all-new Impala and restyled 2014 Malibu, while more intuitive controls update the interior. New voice-controlled features enhance safety when responding to text messages in the vehicle. "We've simply made a great, versatile car even better," said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet director of passenger car and crossover marketing. "Chevrolet continues to design, build and sell the most compelling small cars in its history and the 2015 Cruze offers more of the features, connectivity and efficiency that are important to today's customers." The Cruze's facelift for 2015 refreshes the appearance for LS, LT, RS and LTZ models. A prominent dual-port front fascia takes styling cues from Impala and Malibu, contributing a more cohesive look across Chevrolet's sedan range including LED daytime running lamps on LT and LTZ trims. They complement the Cruze's swept-back headlamps, for a sportier presence. Several new exterior and interior colors will also be offered for 2015. Updates on the interior enhance convenience: Revised cupholders make it easier to insert and remove cups Trunk release relocated to the center console Door lock switches relocated from the center console to the front doors. In addition to LS, LT, RS and LTZ models, the 2015 Cruze lineup includes Cruze Eco (EPA-rated 42 mpg highway) and Cruze Diesel (EPA 46 mpg highway), the most efficient non-hybrid passenger car in America. That's about 10 percent greater efficiency than the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. The Cruze also delivers more horsepower (151 hp) and torque (264 lb-ft), than the Jetta TDI (140 hp / 236 lb-ft). Cruze Diesel's driving range is up to 717 miles per tank. Cruze offers more standard safety features than any other car in its class, including 2014 models of the Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla. Cruze has 10 standard air bags including side-impact and knee air bags for front passengers and offers side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear park assist and a rearview camera. "Cruze remains a strong entry in the compact segment, with features that continue to bring new customers to Chevrolet," said Majoros. "Along with Spark, Spark EV, Sonic and Volt, Chevy's lineup of efficient, technologically advanced small cars is one of the industry's most compelling." A mobile hub with greater connectivityThe enhanced connectivity and convenience features for the 2015 Cruze include a new Text Message Alerts feature for smartphone users with Bluetooth profile (M.A.P.), which reads incoming texts through the vehicle's speakers, and Siri Eyes Free for iPhone iOS 6 and iOS 7 users to enhance connectivity and convenience. Each enables voice-controlled connectivity, to help keep phones in pockets and hands on the wheel. Additional standard and available features include: Seven-inch-diagonal color touch screen and additional USB ports Chevrolet connected by OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot Next-generation OnStar and MyLink enhancements with natural language voice recognition Available Chevrolet AppShop (later availability) Available navigation. OnStar 4G LTE with available Wi-Fi hotspot provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers with easy access to apps and services that require a high-speed data connection. 4G LTE is the most current and fastest mobile data network 10 times faster than 3G. And with OnStar, it offers stronger, broader coverage than smartphones on the same network and it's easy to use: If the vehicle is on, the connection is on, allowing passengers to connect personal devices such as smartphones, laptops and tablets, to high-speed wireless Internet. Each vehicle can accommodate seven devices at one time. The Chevrolet AppShop allows owners to view all available apps and download them directly to the vehicle, then organize, update or delete them as needed. Available apps connect drivers to vehicle data, music, news, weather, travel information and more. -
We've seen the shots of the new Chevrolet Cruze wearing layers of camouflage, but some new shots out of China could give us our best look of what the automaker has in mind for the next-generation model. Chinese automotive site, auto.sohu.com got their hands on what is reported to be a un-camouflaged next-generation Cruze sitting in a parking lot. Judging from the pictures, Chevrolet is making some dramatic changes. The front end looks to be borrowing some ideas from the SS with two distinctly separate grilles and a large Bowtie emblem. A set of narrowed headlights sit on either side. One other design cue to take note of is the arch in the rear wheel wells, something very reminiscent to the Impala. Inside looks to be a more upscale interior with a new steering wheel and larger screen for the infotainment system. auto.sohu.com says the Cruze will debut at the Beijing Motor Show in April. We'll keep you updated. Source: auto.sohu.com William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 8, 2013 Forbes had the chance to talk with General Motors' North American president Mark Reuss this week. Reuss talked about key gaps that he sees in GM's lineup and what could be done to fill them. We'll start with the Chevrolet Cruze. Since going on sale in the U.S., a lot of us have been wondering why there isn't a hatchback version. Especially considering the number of compact hatchbacks that are on sale has been growing and that Chevrolet sells a Cruze hatchback in Europe. Reuss said “That was a pre-bankruptcy planning mistake.” Even without the hatchback, the Cruze has been doing quite well, with 211,862 models sold so far this year. Speaking about the next-generation Cruze, Reuss said “the next-generation will blow you away.” From what we know, the next-generation Cruze will adopt a design profile similar to the Sonic. Maybe the five-door Cruze will come as well. Reuss also talked about a "contemporary wagon for mainstream America." Something more affordable than the wagons from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and even Cadillac's own CTS Sports Wagon. There are a few other models that were bandied about by Reuss including a compact van to take on the Ford Transit Connect, a “black hole” pickup truck that would be sandwhich between a medium-duty and heavy-duty truck, and a a flagship model for Buick that Reuss says “a much more beautiful Panamera.” Source: Forbes William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 19, 2013 According to a report from Reuters, General Motors has pushed back the launch timeframe of the next Chevrolet Cruze from 2014 to late 2015. Sources say the reasons for the push is for the company to squeeze out more sales out of the current model and to put more engineering changes into the model. We don't know much about the next-generation Cruze, besides that it will ride on GM's new D2XX platform. Our best guess as to why GM is pushing back the Cruze by about a year? They don't want another 2013 Malibu disaster. Source: Reuters William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com April 23, 2013 At first glance, you might be thinking these spy shots are for a refreshed Chevrolet Sonic sedan because of the distinctive front end. You be incorrect as Automobile Magazine says this is the new 2015 Cruze. The Cruze mule caught in these spy shots clearly show the Sonic influences tapered nose, descending hood, narrow headlights, and dual grille surround. The windshield looks be swept back and the roofline has a coupelike styling. In the back, the trunklid gains an integrated spoiler and a set of new taillights. The new Cruze will utilize an updated version of the Delta platform. Its not quite sure what will happen under the hood, but there is a chance that a new nine-speed automatic transmission could be installed. Source: Automobile Magazine William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com April 18, 2013 Chevrolet has announced today that 2014 Cruze Diesel will return 46 MPG on highway based on EPA estimates. This estimate bests the original Highway MPG prediction by about four MPGs. Chevrolet is quick to point out that the 46 MPG makes the Cruze Diesel the highest MPG of a non-hybrid vehicle. If you're wondering, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI gets 42 MPG Highway and the Volkswagen Passat TDI gets 43 MPG highway. Chevrolet says the Cruze Diesel will be able to travel up to 700 miles on the highway or about 10 hours of driving. As for city and combined MPGs, Chevrolet is keeping quiet on that. Most likely we'll find that out when the Cruze Diesel goes on sale later this spring. Source: Chevrolet William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel 46 MPG Sets Highway Fuel Economy Benchmark Best Highway Fuel Economy of Any Non-Hybrid Passenger Car in America Can travel 700 highway miles on single tank DETROIT – The new 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel, delivers an industry best EPA-estimated 46 MPG on the highway – better than any non-hybrid passenger car in America. It will be available in certain cities this spring and nationwide and in Canada in early fall. Equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, the latest addition to the Cruze powertrain family has an estimated range of 700 highway miles on one tank of diesel fuel based on the EPA highway estimate and the vehicle's fuel tank capacity. That's about 10 hours of highway driving. "We harnessed generations of diesel expertise to adapt our world-class global engine for the North American market," said Gary Altman, chief engineer, Chevrolet Cruze Diesel. "The Cruze Diesel is the best diesel passenger car out there. Chevrolet is redefining the meaning of great fuel economy with this car." With a starting price of $25,695, including an $810 destination charge, the Chevrolet Cruze Diesel is a better value than a similarly equipped VW Jetta TDI automatic. Compared with Jetta, the Cruze Diesel offers standard equipment including the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, larger 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-appointed seating, a longer five-year 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a two-year maintenance plan. Cruze Diesel also beats its rivals in performance with a segment-leading estimated 148 horsepower (110 kW) and estimated 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm), and can go 0-60 in about 8.6 seconds. Its advanced 2.0L turbo-diesel engine has an overboost feature capable of increasing torque to an estimated 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) for short bursts of stronger acceleration when needed, such as entering freeway traffic. Cruze Diesel is powered by the cleanest diesel passenger car engine produced by General Motors. The vehicle generates 90 percent less Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) and particulate emissions when compared to previous-generation diesels. Chevrolet has sold more than 2 million Cruze models globally since it was launched in mid-2010. More than 33,000 of those were diesel powered. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com February 7, 2013 Its been a long wait since we first heard rumors that Chevrolet would be introducing a diesel version of the Cruze, but that day has finally come. Today at the Chicago Auto Show, Chevrolet will unveil the new 2014 Cruze Diesel. Power comes from a 2.0L turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine boasting 148 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with all of that torque appearing at just 2,000 RPM. There is also a overboost function that allows the engine to deliver up to 280 lb-ft of torque for 10 seconds at a time. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, Chevrolet says the Cruze Diesel can get 42 MPG on the highway. That happens to be the same number that you can get with the Cruze Eco when equipped with a six-speed manual. Standard equipment for the Cruze Diesel includes leather interior, seventeen-inch alloy wheels, an Aero Performance Package, two-year maintenance plan and a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Chevrolet says the Cruze Diesel will cost $26,505 and will begin arriving in select markets in May before expanding to the entire nation sometime later. Source: Chevrolet Album: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel 6 images 0 comments William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Chevrolet Debuts 2014 Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel • Turbocharging helps deliver segment-leading 148 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque with estimated 42 mpg highway • $25,695 MSRP includes destination and two-year maintenance plan CHICAGO – Chevrolet is entering the U.S. and Canadian diesel car markets this summer with a 2.0L turbo-diesel version of its hottest-selling sedan, the Cruze, featuring the cleanest diesel passenger car engine General Motors has ever produced. Clean diesels generate at least 90 percent less Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) and particulate emissions when compared to previous-generation diesels. Built in Lordstown, Ohio, the 2014 Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel delivers a combination of segment-leading features and efficiency. Based on GM testing, the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel has demonstrated estimated best-in-segment range and 42 mpg on the highway with spirited performance and the durability diesel owners value around the globe. "Chevrolet has a diverse portfolio of products and technologies to meet the needs of the most discerning customer, whether it's driving across town gas free in a Spark EV or cross-country in a clean turbo diesel," said Chris Perry, Chevrolet vice president of marketing. The compact sedan's new 2.0L turbo-diesel engine produces segment-leading estimated 148 horsepower (110 kW) and estimated 258 lb-ft torque (350 Nm) with 0-60 performance of 8.6 seconds, which is better than the Volkswagen Jetta TDI automatic and competitive with German diesel cars that dominate the U.S. market. Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel's emissions will be below stringent U.S. environmental standards including Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards. "Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel fills an important role in Chevrolet's diverse four-cylinder lineup, and is primed to win over diesel devotees and compact car buyers with its performance, torque and fuel economy," said Perry. "We leveraged engineering expertise from around the globe to develop a world-class, low-emissions engine to give U.S. and Canadian customers a car that's both fun to drive and practical at the pump." With a starting price at $25,695, including a $810 destination charge (excludes tax, title, license, and dealer fees) Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, 3.20 final drive ratio, 140-amp alternator, 800 cold-cranking amps battery, 17-inch alloy wheels, ultra-low-rolling resistance all-season tires, rear spoiler, Aero Performance Package and leather-appointed seating. Other standard features include Chevrolet's infotainment system MyLink, a two-year maintenance plan, and a five-year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. "Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel is the most sophisticated passenger car diesel engine GM has ever produced," said Jens Wartha, GM global program manager and chief engineer for the Cruze's diesel engine. "We merged European diesel expertise with the real world driving preferences of North American consumers." GM has sold nearly 2 million Chevrolet Cruze models globally since it was launched in mid-2010. GM produced more than half a million small diesel-engine cars across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America last year, including Cruze. In Europe, approximately 40 percent of Cruze models are diesel-powered. -
Well what do we have here? A new set of spy shots show off the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze without any camouflage - most likely due to the model being part of a photoshoot. The overall shape of the new Cruze is very striking and takes some ideas from the new Malibu and Volt with a rising beltline and sloping roof. Other details to take into consideration is a new design of the split grille, headlights, and flared out fenders. The new Cruze is expected to get the turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder that was introduced in the Malibu earlier this year. A diesel and plug-in hybrid are rumored to be available as well. The Cruze is expected to debut at the LA Auto Show in November. Source: Left Lane News -
We're just over 2 weeks away from the 2015 New York Auto Show where Chevrolet will take the wraps off the next iterations of the Chevrolet Malibu and Chevrolet Spark. We also know from Chevy's teaser picture of 5 in 2015 shown below that the Chevrolet Cruze will not be far behind. What we've uncovered however is that Chevrolet appears to be planning to go on building the current design of Cruze and Malibu right along side their newer-bodied versions. According to the General Motors Vin Decoder website, the current Cruze and Malibu will soldier on for at least another model year. For 2016, both the current Cruze and Malibu will gain the Limited moniker, just like big brother Impala Limited. We assume that these will largely be aimed at fleet buyers, but some of the changes for Cruze lead us to believe that Chevy is expecting to do some retail sales of the Cruze Limited as well. What changes? We’ll start with the Malibu: The current design Malibu is dropping the Eco version completely; Gone also is the 2.0T. The Malibu line-up is cut to just LS, LT, and LTZ with the single engine choice of the 2.5 liter 4-cylinder. This, however, is not the same 2.5 liter found in the Malibu in 2015. The 2016 Malibu Limited will have the LCV 2.5 rather than the LKW 2.5. What does that mean to you? The only change is a 5 lb-ft increase in maximum torque at 4,400 rpm and possibly a slight decrease in fuel economy. The possibility of a slight loss of fuel economy is due to the fact that in this change, the engine will no longer have Intake Valve Lift control as part of the VVT. Only the Malibu and Impala use the LKW engine while the LCV is used in the Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon; so it seems as if GM is consolidating its 4-cylinder engine platforms with this move. The 2016 Impala will also drop the LKW in favor of the LCV. With the next generation Cruze possibly a little further behind from the Malibu, it seems that Chevrolet is planning on keeping the current Cruze for sale to retail customers a bit longer. It wouldn’t be an unprecedented move for Chevy as the Impala Limited is sold at retail alongside the newer Impala for a short time. The Cruze also got a mild facelift for 2015. For 2016, the Cruze Limited remains largely unchanged. Both the automatic and manual transmissions remain as well as the Eco trim. The biggest change is likely to disappoint the oil burners in the crowd; the Cruze 2.0 Diesel appears to be done. None of these moves will seem very surprising to GM watchers. This would be the second time GM has kept the prior version Malibu in production to sell to rental fleets and the previous Impala is still on sale as the Impala Limited. However, unlike those past examples which were already well beyond their “Best By” date when they made the switch, the current Cruze and Malibu are just mildly stale, so bargain hunters searching for a deal on a 2016 could find the Limited models worth a look. Next up, Camaro SS Limited? A General Motors representative declined comment for this article. Sources: GM VIN Decoder Webpage, Oppositelock Hat Tip to Staff Writer: Blake Noble -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 24, 2012 Yesterday, General Motors announced a $220 million investment into two plants in Ohio; Lordstown and Parma. Lordstown has been building the Cruze since 2010, while Parma handles parts for GM vehicles. The investment will be for tooling and equipment to build the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze. "Thanks to northeast Ohio's supportive business climate, we're able to build on a great foundation and steer the Chevrolet Cruze into the next generation. A special thanks goes to Governor John Kasich and his team at Jobs Ohio for their strong leadership and advocacy for GM and our employees," said GM Manufacturing Manager Arvin Jones. Which brings us onto what to expect from the next-generation Cruze. In the press release, Arvin "Jones said the new model will offer new exterior and interior styling, improved fuel economy and an improved interior compartment and more storage space." Automotive News says the next Cruze will wear the same front end treatment as new Impala; a wider, flared-back grille that connects to the headlamps. Automotive News also says that GM is considering whether to add a hatchback or coupe for the next-generation Cruze lineup. The big rumor comes from Reuters which says that the next-generation Cruze will be the first GM vehicle to utilize a new compact platform known internally as D2XX. D2XX will combine two current GM platforms, Delta II (Cruze and Volt) and Theta (Equinox and Terrain), into one. The platform could underpin close to 2.5 million compact sedans and crossovers by 2018. When asked for comment, a GM spokesman declined. The next-generation Cruze is due out in Fall 2014 as a 2015 model. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Reuters William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 GM Commits Next-Gen Chevrolet Cruze to Ohio Plants Lordstown and Parma get $220 million investment and retain more than 5,000 jobs DETROIT – General Motors will invest $220 million for tooling and equipment to build the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze in two northeast Ohio plants retaining more than 5,000 jobs at facilities in Lordstown and Parma. The Lordstown Complex, with support from the metal center in the Cleveland suburb of Parma, has built more than 500,000 of Chevrolet’s top-selling compact passenger sedan since production began in September 2010. More than 1.6 million Cruzes have been built globally since 2009. "Thanks to northeast Ohio's supportive business climate, we're able to build on a great foundation and steer the Chevrolet Cruze into the next generation." GM Manufacturing Manager Arvin Jones said. "A special thanks goes to Governor John Kasich and his team at Jobs Ohio for their strong leadership and advocacy for GM and our employees." GM has invested more than $7.3 billion in its U.S. facilities since 2009. Production timing of the next-generation Cruze will be announced later. But Jones said the new model will offer new exterior and interior styling, improved fuel economy and an improved interior compartment and more storage space. Preliminary work to clear space in the body shop at Lordstown has begun. The 2012 Cruze is among the best-selling compacts in the United States and was named “America’s Best Compact Car for the Money” by U.S. News and World Report. In a joint statement, UAW Local 1112 Shop Chairman Ben Strickland and UAW Local 1714 Shop Chairman Will Adams credited the Lordstown Team. “The men and women of Lordstown are working hard to keep the Cruze a top-quality small car choice. The next-generation of the Cruze is well earned and we are thrilled to be assigned work that will keep good-paying next generation UAW jobs in the state of Ohio for years to come.” The Lordstown complex has built more than 14.6 million cars in the 46 years since it opened in April 1966. In 2011, the Parma Metal Center shipped about 60 million parts and processed more than 1,000 tons of steel a day to serve the majority of GM vehicle lines produced in North America. Parma has more than 1,400 dies and can produce up to 100 million parts a year. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com June 25, 2012 Two months after NHTSA opened an investigation into the 2011 and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze due to fires, General Motors has announced a recall for 413,418 Cruzes for the 2011 and 2012 model years that were built in the United States through May 2012. The recall affects the Cruze’s engine shield located underneath the engine. The worry is that any fluids that might leak from above and land on the shield could collect and possibly ignite. Dealers will modify the Cruze’s shield and take around 30 minutes to complete. Also, GM is recalling 249 Cruzes that could have partially completed welds in their trunks. William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 GM Recalls Chevrolet Cruzes for Safety Modifications DETROIT – General Motors will recall 413,418 Chevrolet Cruzes in the United States for the 2011 and 2012 model years to modify the engine shield under the vehicle. This change will help prevent any liquids from being trapped in the engine compartment, where a fire could start and spread. In a separate safety recall, GM will inspect certain cars included in the first recall to assure all welds in the rear compartment were properly applied. Omitted or partially completed welds in up to 249 cars may affect the fuel tank strap secondary brackets attachment to the floor structure and a sub assembly to the rear floor pan. There are no known crashes, injuries or fatalities related to either recall. Only Cruzes built in Lordstown, Ohio, and sold in the United States and Canada and several hundred exported to Israel are affected. "The most important thing for our customers to know is that we are proactively working to assure the Cruze is the safe and durable car they purchased," said GM vice president of Global Quality Alicia Boler-Davis. "We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by these actions." All Cruzes with manual and automatic transmissions built in the United States from September 2010 through May 2012 are included in the engine shield modification. Improper engine oil change procedures on these vehicles can result in the spilling or dripping of oil. If oil contacts hot engine or exhaust system surfaces, and the engine shield, the shield may ignite and burn, resulting in a possible engine compartment fire. In Cruzes with manual transmissions, continuing to drive with a completely worn clutch may cause hydraulic fluid to be expelled from the clutch housing vent hole. Under certain circumstances, the fluid could be burning as it exits the vent hole. If it contacts the engine shield, the shield may ignite and a fire may spread to the engine compartment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary investigation in April of this year as a result of two engine compartment fires in 2011 model year Cruzes and later added the 2012 model year. Modifying the engine shield will take about 30 minutes in a Chevrolet dealership service department and will be conducted free of charge. No parts are involved and customers are encouraged to make an appointment with their dealer at their earliest convenience. Owner letters will mailed be beginning July 11. Inspection for the possible missing welds takes only a few minutes. In confirmed cases, the repair would take about three hours. -
This evening at a event in Detroit, Chevrolet unveiled the second-generation Cruze. The new Cruze looks like a shrunken-down version of the Malibu with similar profiles. There is a reason to this as Cruze was styled only a few feet away from the new Malibu. The Cruze features such details as a lower front end, mesh grilles, and distinctive character lines. Size-wise, the Cruze is slightly larger than current model with overall length up 2.7 inches (183.7 inches vs. 181 inches) and the wheelbase is up 0.6 inches (106.3 inches vs. 105.7 inches). The interior has been updated with more soft-touch materials, and the latest version of Chevrolet's MyLink which offers compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Rear legroom is increased to 36.4 inches, but worryingly headroom sees a slight decrease by half an inch. Power for the Cruze comes from all-new turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder with 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. A choice of either a manual or automatic, both six-speeds, helps get the power to the front wheels. Chevrolet has also cut a bit of weight out of the Cruze - 250 lbs to be exact, which allows the Cruze to achieve 40 MPG on the highway and a total range of 530 Miles. There is also a diesel option coming, but not until 2017. The 2016 Cruze arrives at Chevrolet dealers early next year. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 Sophisticated Sophomore: All-New 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Larger and lighter; all-new compact car is more agile with a dynamic driving experience All-new, standard 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection offers a GM-estimated 40 mpg highway; stop/start technology contributes to efficiency in stop-and-go driving New Chevrolet MyLink offers better performance, plus compatibility with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, for smart, simple smartphone integration Advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert On sale in the U.S. in early 2016; diesel model follows in 2017 DETROIT – Chevrolet today introduced the all-new 2016 Cruze – a larger and lighter, more efficient and more sophisticated evolution of the brand’s best-selling global car. Packed with new technologies such as available Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and new active safety features, as well as a more spacious interior and an athletic, aerodynamically optimized design, the 2016 Cruze elevates the compact car segment – from San Francisco to Shanghai and from Boston to Buenos Aeries. It will be offered in more than 40 global markets and goes on sale first in North America in early 2016. A new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine with direct injection and an SAE-certified 153 horsepower (113 kW) helps enable a General Motors-estimated 40 mpg on the highway with the available six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology helps enhance the Cruze’s efficiency in stop-and-go driving. The new turbo engine and a leaner architecture that reduces up to 250 pounds (113 kg) also contribute to the new Cruze’s stronger performance, with expected 0-60-mph acceleration of eight seconds. “The 2016 Cruze builds on a very successful program that introduced Chevrolet to new customers the world over,” said Alan Batey, president, General Motors North America. “We retained all the attributes that made the original Cruze a hit around the globe and built on them to make this car more sophisticated, more fun and more Chevrolet.” Vehicle highlights include: Next-generation Chevrolet MyLink with smartphone integration capability, including a standard seven-inch-diagonal screen and available eight-inch-diagonal screen (at launch, eight-inch screen only with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto coming later) New 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection and stop/start technology matched with a standard six-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission (North America) Maximum highway range of 530 miles per tank All-new, stronger and lighter body structure enhances agility, efficiency and safety – with an approximately 250-pound (113 kg) lower curb weight Class-leading 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase enhances roominess, contributing to greater rear-seat legroom and more rear knee room Projector headlamps with light-emitting diode (LED) signature lighting – and LED daytime running lamps on uplevel models More standard features than most competitors’ small cars such as 10 air bags, four-wheel disc brakes, rearview camera and available OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot New, available features including wireless phone charging, heated rear leather seats and heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel Available advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert New model range for North America including L, LS, LT and Premier – and a more expressive RS package. “The new Cruze is truly one of Chevrolet’s most global vehicles,” said Batey. “With content variations dictated mostly by local market demands, customers in every corner of the globe will enjoy the same fundamental dynamics that are making Chevrolet one of the fastest-growing brands around the world.” In 2017, Chevrolet will introduce a new diesel model for U.S. customers that builds on the success of the current Cruze diesel model. Wind tunnel-optimized design The 2016 Cruze’s expressive design balances the designers’ inspiration and the efficiency-optimizing input of wind tunnel testing – leveraging the aero experience of vehicles including the Volt. The result is one of the sleekest-looking cars in the class, with a 0.29 coefficient of drag – an attribute that contributes directly to a GM-estimated 40 mpg on the highway. Proportionally, the new Cruze is 2.7 inches (68 mm) longer and nearly an inch (25 mm) shorter in height than the current model, giving it a longer and leaner appearance. A faster windshield rake and a faster-sloping rear profile lend a sportier look to the design, while the rear profile culminates in a standard integral rear spoiler that contributes to the car’s aero efficiency. The sleek profile is complemented by detailed, layered line work in the hood and body-side panels, contributing to an overall impression of muscularity – with an athletic stance enhanced by a longer wheelbase. “With styling influenced by the acclaimed 2014 Impala and all new Malibu, the 2016 Cruze brings Chevrolet’s new, expressive global design language to the small car segment,” said John Cafaro, executive director, Chevrolet Design. “The Cruze’s approach to proportion and premium details adds to Chevrolet’s elevation of craftsmanship, content, quality and a fresh interpretation of an identity that is unmistakably Chevrolet in every market around the world.” The headlamps sweep back into the front fenders and an expressive, stacked dual-port grille design offers upscale attention to detail. LT and Premier models feature premium forward lighting systems, including projector-beam headlamps and LED signature daytime running lamps. Additional design details include: The center-rear stop lamp is mounted at the top of the roof line for a more refined appearance Seamless rocker panels convey upscale attention to detail and contribute to aerodynamic performance Polished aluminum, piano black and bright-finished accents provide a more contemporary, upscale aura to the design The RS package includes unique grilles, front and rear fascias, fog lamps, front splitter, rocker panels, rear spoiler and 18-inch wheels on the Premier model. Roomier, more-connected passenger space With greater spaciousness and technology, the 2016 Cruze’s interior is designed to be more comfortable and a better connected environment for the driver and passengers. The greater spaciousness includes more rear legroom (36.1 inches / 917 mm) and two inches (51 mm) more rear knee room – more than Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra. Beyond the quantifiable, there’s greater perceptual spaciousness in the new Cruze, driven by flowing line work in the instrument panel, which blends almost seamlessly with the front door panels. Like the exterior, the Cruze’s interior – and the instrument panel in particular – feature lean, muscular and layered surfaces built around the Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit theme. It’s a thoroughly modern design that emphasizes human-technology interaction through the prominent, standard MyLink screen in the “center stack.” A mixture of accents, from piano black and matte black finishes to bright trim, along with more premium features such as available heated rear leather seats and wireless phone charging, complement the cabin with an upscale ambience generally reserved for midsize sedans – but one that is becoming increasingly important to customers around the globe who want premium amenities in smaller vehicles. Additional interior features and amenities include: Unique center console design for North America with specific user interface details such as a repositioned shifter, more intuitive positioning of the cup holders and enhanced storage More soft-touch surfaces and animal-grained, micro-etched surfacing that enhance the premium look and feel of the interior, as well as premium fabrics with French stitching, distinctive for its contrasting stitch colors. Premium leather is available 4.2-inch-diagonal high-resolution driver information center in the gauge cluster Premium features including heated front cloth seats, heated rear leather-trimmed seats, and heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Through smartphone integration, Cruze’s all-new Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the Cruze’s seven-inch-diagonal color touchscreen, allowing them to call up music, navigation apps and more. An uplevel MyLink radio with an eight-inch display and navigation is available and also incorporates Apple CarPlay. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features owners want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. This allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay-supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Apple CarPlay is compatible with iOS 7.1 or higher. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at g.co/androidauto. Android Auto requires a phone running an Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or higher. Using both applications is simple. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply. Complementing MyLink to enhance Cruze’s connectivity is available OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Larger, lighter and more dynamic An all-new, more rigid and lighter architecture is the 2016 Cruze’s foundation for driving dynamism, while also playing significant roles in safety and efficiency. It is constructed of about 8-percent hot-stamped/high-strength steels, which contributes to an approximately 27-percent stiffer body structure that is also 53 pounds (24 kg) lighter than the current Cruze. The lighter structure is also larger than the current model, with the new Cruze’s 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase stretching nearly an inch longer, while supporting front and rear suspensions with wide tracks (60.8-inch front/61.3-inch rear). Aluminum is used strategically in the suspension systems to optimize weight and handling characteristics. “The Cruze’s chassis system is perhaps the most mass-efficient in the segment,” said Ron Arnesen, executive chief engineer. “It is at the core of the car’s dynamic driving character, which is designed to deliver fun with an enhanced feeling of connectivity.” Additionally, the new, more rigid architecture is the primary enabler for exceptional chassis tuning, affording more nimble and direct steering and handling attributes that foster driving confidence through precision. The longer wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks further contribute to a lower, wide “footprint,” which enhances agility and the feeling of control. Additional features include: A proven MacPherson strut front suspension design with specially tuned bushings and geometry intended to balance handling with comfort A torsion beam rear axle on L, LS and LT models; and an enhanced Z-link design on Premier. It helps deliver a more balanced driving experience, as the rear suspension better follows the lead of the front suspension Rack-mounted electric power steering is standard on all models. It enhances efficiency because it removes the conventional power steering pump from the engine’s driven accessories Four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife longer-life rotors are standard on all models StabiliTrak electronic stability control, with traction control, rollover mitigation and anti-lock brakes, is standard Wheel sizes ranging from 15 to 18 inches. Power-dense, efficient turbocharged powertrain In North America, the 2016 Cruze is driven by an all-new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine derived from GM’s new family of small gas engines. It features direct injection, stop/start technology and is matched with a standard six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology helps enhance efficiency in stop-and-go driving. The new 1.4L turbo is SAE-certified at 153 horsepower (113 kW) and 177 lb-ft of torque (240 Nm). With more torque than the current Cruze’s 1.4L turbo and a lighter architecture, the new turbocharged engine is expected to deliver segment-best 0-60 performance of 8 seconds. That makes the new Cruze quicker than most competitors, while also beating most of them at the gas pump, with a GM-estimated 40 mpg on the highway with automatic transmission. The 1.4L turbo features an aluminum cylinder block and head, which helps reduce the Cruze’s overall weight to enhance performance and efficiency. Engine efficiency is also enhanced through reduced friction, including low-friction piston rings, a low-friction camshaft drive and a low-friction oil pump. The start/stop feature automatically shuts down the engine when the car comes to a stop under certain driving conditions, such as a stoplight. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake. Advanced safety features The 2016 Cruze’s safety story begins with the new, stronger body structure that incorporates high-strength steel in key areas to enhance strength and crash protection by helping to prevent intrusion into passenger compartment. Cruze also returns with a segment-leading 10 standard air bags, including frontal driver and passenger air bags, roof rail-mounted head curtain side air bags that help protect the front and outboard rear seating positions; seat-mounted side-impact air bags (front and rear); and front knee air bags. Available safety features include an expanded range of crash-avoidance technologies, including Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert. Additional safety features include: Front passenger seat occupant sensing system and rollover sensing and protection system Collapsible pedal assembly to help protect against lower-extremity injuries Three-point safety belts in all five seating positions, safety belt retractor pretensioners and lap pretensioners in the driver and front-passenger positions, and safety belt load limiters (with pretensioners) in the front safety belt retractors LATCH child seat latching system in the rear seat Tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lamps Automatic headlamps. Manufacturing For the United States, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze will be built at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant, with locally and globally sourced components. The plant received a $50-million investment in tooling and other enhancements to support the new Cruze’s production. View full article
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Tyler Lipa Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 5th, 2013 Welcome to the era of diesel. From pick-up trucks to compact sedans there will be more diesel powered choices in the next few years than ever before. Chevrolet’s first foray back into the forbidden realm of diesel powered cars is the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel. Chevrolet didn’t choose to launch its first light duty diesel in an all new vehicle; instead it hid the diesel engine in plain sight under the hood of the unassuming Chevrolet Cruze. Saving the best for last is overrated so let’s just dive right into the engine bay. Chevrolet’s first light duty diesel displaces 2.0 liters and produces 151 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 264 lb-ft. of torque at 2600 rpm. Chevrolet engineers also added an overboost feature that raises maximum torque to 280 lb.-ft. From a driver’s perspective there is no clear indication when overboost happens. In reality it’s just a marketing gimmick that makes the Cruze sound just a little bit better on paper than its German competitor, the Volkswagen Jetta. If you’ve always done your own maintenance, the Cruze Diesel is a bit different than what you’ve come to expect. Oil for the Cruze Diesel must meet Dexos2 specifications. Dexos2 is the General Motors standard for light duty diesel engines.. Regular fuel filter changes are also a requirement for diesel engines and typically are required every 12,000 miles. Make sure to keep an eye on the DEF, diesel exhaust fluid, level that can be accessed through the trip computer. The tank, located in the trunk where the spare tire would be holds enough fluid for about 10,000 miles. Diesel exhaust fluid helps the Cruze maintain its clean diesel status. Luckily this fluid is available at auto parts stores, truck stops and even Walmart. Welcome to the life of clean diesel ownership.Unfortunately it’s very obvious that Chevrolet is new to the world of passenger diesel engines. Compared to modern Volkswagen TDIs the Cruze diesel is reminiscent of diesel engines from the early 2000s. For some, the noise might be endearing, but in North America refinement is the name of the game and this engine needs a little more work. Another issue with the Cruze Turbo Diesel is a significant amount of lag on initial take-off that can be a bit disconcerting when you’re turning left against oncoming traffic. But what is the rest of the car like? On to page 2! On the outside the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel looks just like any other Cruze on the road. Only a small green badge with, “2.0 TD,” on the trunk lid and unique 17 inch 5-spoke alloy wheels set it apart from the rest of the pack. Chevrolet also equipped the Cruze Turbo Diesel with the same aerodynamic package as the Cruze Eco with a smaller radiator grill and shutters that close at high speed to reduce drag. General Motors does quiet very well and the Cruze is a temple of solace on the highway. If you spend most of your time on the highway then the Cruze Diesel is the perfect companion. Any 2.0 liter gasoline engine might feel a little strained at high speed, but the Cruze really makes it feel like you’re going 20 miles per hour slower than you really are. Around town the Cruze feels heavy and the diesel engine really feels wasted. Don’t drive the Cruze hard, just don’t, this is a road trip and commuter car and that’s just fine. Enjoy the 46 miles per gallon you’re getting on the highway while you relax to your music and podcasts. Chevrolet is entering the twilight years of the current Cruze and it really shows in the interior quality. Adequate is the best way to describe what it feels like in the Cruze. Everything inside the Cruze is middle of the road and unassuming. This isn’t always a bad thing when it comes to a compact sedan, especially one with something a little different under the hood. Unlike hybrids that have complex drive trains and multiple drive modes the Cruze Turbo Diesel is simple and straightforward. Anyone who can drive a gasoline powered Cruze can drive the new turbo diesel variant.Infotainment and technology is really where the interior of the Cruze suffers. Chevrolet’s MyLink is wonderful in other models, but suffers from unresponsive redundant buttons that are confusing. Not once did I touch the cluster of buttons below the touch screen radio. Deleting all but the most essential buttons on the center stack would go a long way in bringing the Cruze into the modern world. The bottom line is this is a car that is really something to lease. The Cruze is starting to show its age and you don’t want to be stuck in a car that already feels five years old. Leasing the Cruze shows General Motors that there is a demand for more and even better diesel engines in the future. Leasing the Cruze Turbo Diesel will let General Motors know that Americans are ready to take a chance on diesel, but that it’s not good enough to own out right. Chevrolet wants to know whether or not consumers are serious about diesels here in the United States. The future of diesel powered cars rests in your hands. Disclaimer: Chevrolet provided the Cruze Diesel, insurance, and one tank of fuel. Year: 2014 Make: Chevrolet Model: Cruze Turbo Diesel Trim: Diesel Automatic Engine: 2.0 Liter Common-Rail Turbocharged Intercooled Diesel Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, Six-Speed Automatic Horsepower @ RPM: (Diesel) 151 @ 4,000 Torque @ RPM: (Diesel) 264 @ 2,600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 27/46/33 Curb Weight: 3,475 lbs Location of Manufacture: Lordstown, Ohio Base Price: $24,885.00 As Tested Price: $28,105.00* (Includes $810.00 destination charge) Tyler Lipa is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at tyler.lipa@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @talipa2012 View full article
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 8, 2013 Forbes had the chance to talk with General Motors' North American president Mark Reuss this week. Reuss talked about key gaps that he sees in GM's lineup and what could be done to fill them. We'll start with the Chevrolet Cruze. Since going on sale in the U.S., a lot of us have been wondering why there isn't a hatchback version. Especially considering the number of compact hatchbacks that are on sale has been growing and that Chevrolet sells a Cruze hatchback in Europe. Reuss said “That was a pre-bankruptcy planning mistake.” Even without the hatchback, the Cruze has been doing quite well, with 211,862 models sold so far this year. Speaking about the next-generation Cruze, Reuss said “the next-generation will blow you away.” From what we know, the next-generation Cruze will adopt a design profile similar to the Sonic. Maybe the five-door Cruze will come as well. Reuss also talked about a "contemporary wagon for mainstream America." Something more affordable than the wagons from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and even Cadillac's own CTS Sports Wagon. There are a few other models that were bandied about by Reuss including a compact van to take on the Ford Transit Connect, a “black hole” pickup truck that would be sandwhich between a medium-duty and heavy-duty truck, and a a flagship model for Buick that Reuss says “a much more beautiful Panamera.” Source: Forbes William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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Well what do we have here? A new set of spy shots show off the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze without any camouflage - most likely due to the model being part of a photoshoot. The overall shape of the new Cruze is very striking and takes some ideas from the new Malibu and Volt with a rising beltline and sloping roof. Other details to take into consideration is a new design of the split grille, headlights, and flared out fenders. The new Cruze is expected to get the turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder that was introduced in the Malibu earlier this year. A diesel and plug-in hybrid are rumored to be available as well. The Cruze is expected to debut at the LA Auto Show in November. Source: Left Lane News View full article
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We're just over 2 weeks away from the 2015 New York Auto Show where Chevrolet will take the wraps off the next iterations of the Chevrolet Malibu and Chevrolet Spark. We also know from Chevy's teaser picture of 5 in 2015 shown below that the Chevrolet Cruze will not be far behind. What we've uncovered however is that Chevrolet appears to be planning to go on building the current design of Cruze and Malibu right along side their newer-bodied versions. According to the General Motors Vin Decoder website, the current Cruze and Malibu will soldier on for at least another model year. For 2016, both the current Cruze and Malibu will gain the Limited moniker, just like big brother Impala Limited. We assume that these will largely be aimed at fleet buyers, but some of the changes for Cruze lead us to believe that Chevy is expecting to do some retail sales of the Cruze Limited as well. What changes? We’ll start with the Malibu: The current design Malibu is dropping the Eco version completely; Gone also is the 2.0T. The Malibu line-up is cut to just LS, LT, and LTZ with the single engine choice of the 2.5 liter 4-cylinder. This, however, is not the same 2.5 liter found in the Malibu in 2015. The 2016 Malibu Limited will have the LCV 2.5 rather than the LKW 2.5. What does that mean to you? The only change is a 5 lb-ft increase in maximum torque at 4,400 rpm and possibly a slight decrease in fuel economy. The possibility of a slight loss of fuel economy is due to the fact that in this change, the engine will no longer have Intake Valve Lift control as part of the VVT. Only the Malibu and Impala use the LKW engine while the LCV is used in the Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon; so it seems as if GM is consolidating its 4-cylinder engine platforms with this move. The 2016 Impala will also drop the LKW in favor of the LCV. With the next generation Cruze possibly a little further behind from the Malibu, it seems that Chevrolet is planning on keeping the current Cruze for sale to retail customers a bit longer. It wouldn’t be an unprecedented move for Chevy as the Impala Limited is sold at retail alongside the newer Impala for a short time. The Cruze also got a mild facelift for 2015. For 2016, the Cruze Limited remains largely unchanged. Both the automatic and manual transmissions remain as well as the Eco trim. The biggest change is likely to disappoint the oil burners in the crowd; the Cruze 2.0 Diesel appears to be done. None of these moves will seem very surprising to GM watchers. This would be the second time GM has kept the prior version Malibu in production to sell to rental fleets and the previous Impala is still on sale as the Impala Limited. However, unlike those past examples which were already well beyond their “Best By” date when they made the switch, the current Cruze and Malibu are just mildly stale, so bargain hunters searching for a deal on a 2016 could find the Limited models worth a look. Next up, Camaro SS Limited? A General Motors representative declined comment for this article. Sources: GM VIN Decoder Webpage, Oppositelock Hat Tip to Staff Writer: Blake Noble View full article
