The new Chevrolet Cruze has been launched in China by General Motors, Shanghai. The new-generation Cruze is offered in seven variants with a choice of 1.4-litre turbocharged or 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engines. The new Cruze is the first model to adopt GM’s new global compact midsize car platform. It was developed by European engineers and most of its tuning and testing were carried out at the Nürburgring.

Although 72 percent of the new Cruze’s body consists of high-strength steel, the extensive use of aluminium and lightweight materials makes it 10 percent lighter than the current-generation Cruze. This enhances fuel economy without compromising safety. A reinforced Watt linkage, an all-aluminum subframe and Bosch’s electronic stability control (ESC), all of which come standard, improve handling, stability and safety. Wang Yongqing, Shanghai GM president , said, “With GM's global intelligent technology, it sets new benchmarks for styling, efficiency and user-friendliness in its segment. We expect the new Cruze to appeal to younger car buyers looking for an exhilarating driving experience.”

The company says the short front and rear overhangs make the new Cruze dynamically compact. A fastback design enhances aerodynamics and fuel economy. It has a drag coefficient of 0.28. The wheels were pushed out to the corners of the car and the roofline stretched, while the centre point of the lower edge of the windshield was moved forward. In combination with its more compact powertrain, this gives the new Cruze a spacious interior with 22mm of additional knee-room for back seat occupants.

The new Cruze is among the first vehicles to take advantage of GM’s new Ecotec small engine portfolio. Its 1.4-litre unit makes 148bhp and 24kgm of torque. The turbocharged engine is offered with a choice of a new seven-speed dual clutch gearbox or a six-speed manual gearbox. The 1.5-litre unit makes 113bhp and 15kgm of torque. It is mated to a new six-speed Dynamic Start/Stop Shift (DSS) automatic transmission. The company claims that the mid-mounted direct injection engine technology and wide range of fuel-saving features such as start/stop technology and ultra-low rolling resistance tyres make the new Cevrolet Cruze up to 24 percent more fuel efficient than the current-generation model.