Chevrolet has released official information about the U.S. market 2011 Cruze, ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Moving.

Described as a progressive, globally influenced sedan with "outstanding levels of quietness, quality and concentration to detail," the Cruze is planned to make consumers forget about the mediocre Cobalt and the systematically awful Cavalier. In order to do this, GM gave the car sleek styling, an attractive interior, and an advanced chassis.



Available in three trim levels (LS, LT and LTZ), the Cruze will come nicely equipped with electronic stability control, 16-inch wheels, soft-touch interior components, and a six speaker stereo system (with MP3 playback and an auxiliary jack). According to Chevrolet's product marketing manager, Margaret Brooks, "At a very competitive price, you'll be able to get a Cruze with leather and heated front seats, 16-inch aluminum wheels, XM Satellite Radio, OnStar, Bluetooth, a USB port for your iPod, cruise control, power locks and power outside mirrors."


Under the hood, two different four-cylinder engines will be offered. The 1.8-liter Ecotec (standard on LS models) produces 136 hp (101 kW) and 123 lb-ft (167 Nm) of torque. On the other hand, LT and LTZ Cruzes will be equipped with a turbocharged 1.4-liter Ecotec engine that produces 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (200 Nm). Connected to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, GM predicts the Cruze will be able to obtain a fuel economy rating of 40 mpg highway.

Set to go on sale in the third quarter of 2010, the Cruze will likely be priced from $16,000 USD.