2011 Chevrolet Cruze for the US market unveiled

Posted by Harvinder

November 30, 2009

General Motors has officially unveiled the US-spec 2011 Cruze that will also make its first American public debut at this week’s Los Angeles Auto Show. However if you are waiting to drive home the Cruze, you will have to wait for about 9 months. In the US the Cruze is offered with two engine options, both from the 4-cylinder family and feature full variable valve timing. First of which is a turbocharged Ecotec 1.4 liter that outputs an estimated 138hp and 200Nm of torque (148 lb.-ft.). The automaker claims that the powerplant’s fuel efficiency enables a cruising range of more than 800 kilometers (500 miles).

The other engine is an Ecotec 1.8 liter that is normally-aspirated. Unfortunately the automaker did not reveal power figures for this engine. Potential buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. There are three trim levels to choose from including LS, LT and LTZ.

As standard, the compact sedan comes with 10 standard air bags (frontal, side-impact, roof rail head curtain, rear seat side air bags and new knee air bags), electronic stability control with rollover sensing, ABS, Bluetooth, USB connectivity and navigation system, XM Satellite Radio and OnStar as well as electric power steering.

There is also an audio system that includes MP3 playback capability, six speakers and an auxiliary jack. 16-, 17- and 18-inch wheels are available as well. The Chevrolet Cruze for both the US and Canadian markets will be assembled in Lordstown, Ohio. Pricing information should be revealed sometime this week but General Motors confirmed that the Cruze is backed by a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Look for an image gallery after the jump.