Chevrolet has launched a more frugal version of the Cruze. Claimed to give the economy of a hybrid without the price tag it features a variety of mechanical and aerodynamic modifications to get more miles per gallon.
The lower front grille features a moveable blind while the upper grille is partially blanked off. The front air damn is deeper, the under body is smoothed out and there is a tail spoiler. The Eco also rides on lowered suspension to help it slip easily through the air.
Other fuel-saving measures include lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels carrying low-rolling resistance tyres. The six-speed manual version also gets a final drive ratio that is optimised for economy.
Power comes from a 1.4-litre, turbocharged petrol engine. The only performance claims made so far are 0-60mph in 'about ten seconds' for the manual model and a second less for the automatic. So-called 'Highway' fuel economy in the US quoted at around 48mpg.
The Cruze Eco is due to go on sale in late 2010 in the USA. There is no firm date for a European launch, but early to mid 2011 seems likely.
John Lambert - 6 Apr 2010