GMSA has announced that the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback and sedan range for 2015 has been “enhanced”, including a 1.4 turbo model with a 6-speed automatic transmission for the first time in South Africa.
Now with a line-up of four sedan and two hatchback models, Chevrolet has given the Cruze a new face and rear styling for an elegant and classy look. The interior remains unchanged, with LS models now receiving Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system as standard.
- Introduction of six speed automatic transmission for 1.4T models
- Enhanced exterior treatments for a competitive edge
- Addition of the Chevrolet Mylink Infotainment system to LS models
“The 2015 Cruze offers great ride and handling, fuel efficient powertrains, styling, and the well-integrated Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment System. The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze is a tangible demonstration of our “Find New Roads” vision which puts the customer at the forefront of everything we do through innovation, pioneering ideas and technology,” said Tim Hendon, Chevrolet Brand Manager at General Motors South Africa (GMSA).
Six Speed Automatic transmission for 1.4 Turbo Engine
First introduced in 2013 the turbocharged 1.4 ECOTEC petrol engine now benefits from the addition of an automatic transmission to complement the existing six-speed manual. The turbocharged 1.4T LS generates 200Nm of torque for a smoother ride and instantaneous power delivery under all road conditions. Power remains at 103 kW between 4 900 and 6 000rpm. Combined fuel consumption is 6.8l/100km, with corresponding CO² emissions of 157 g/km. The 1.4 turbo auto has the highest top speed of all the models in the range topping off at 204 km/h with a 0 to 100km/h acceleration time of 10.4 seconds.
The 1.4 turbo models matted to the manual transmission are fitted with stop/start technology for additional fuel economy and lower emissions. Combined fuel consumption for the manual is 5.8 l/100km, with CO² emissions measured at 135 g/km. This model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h 9.3 seconds and has a top speed of 195 km/h.
Three models in the range are fitted with Chevrolet’s naturally aspirated 1.6 litre petrol engine. Performance figures for this engine are 86 kW of power @6 200 rpm, 155 Nm of torque at 4 000 rpm. Combined fuel consumption is 6.7 l/100km with 158 g/km CO² emissions. 0 to 100 km/h is 12.8 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h for the 1.6 hatch and 190 km/h for the 1.6 sedan.
2015 Range Packed with Safety Features
The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze is continues with the original safety architecture which has earned top five-star safety ratings from both Euro NCAP and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Key to the safety performance of the Cruze is a body structure which is amongst the stiffest in its class. This taut and strong structure is fundamental to the suppression of NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) as well as providing a high level of occupant safety in the event of a collision. It also plays a pivotal role in optimising ride, handling and stability.
The core structure of the Cruze is designed around a set of efficient load paths that assist in absorbing impact energy and directing it away from the vehicle occupants in the event of a collision from virtually any direction. Full-length beams and enhancements to the side sills, B-pillars and A-pillars make use of high strength steel and tailored blank processing contribute towards the excellent crashworthiness of the Cruze
Energy absorbing front and rear crumple zones are designed to deform in a stable and progressive manner in order to absorb collision energy as efficiently as possible so as to maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment. The passenger compartment itself is protected by tubular-section members that effectively make up a safety cage by framing the door openings and providing support for the roof. The combination of single-piece side members and ultra-high strength steel door beams provides effective protection in the event of a side impact.
In addition to passive safety features, Cruze has a range of advanced active safety systems which include:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which helps the driver maintain control in challenging driving situations and keeps the vehicle heading in the intended direction. It also enables more precise, controlled anti-lock braking performance as well as exceptional traction and steering stability.
- Traction Control which limits wheel spin when one or both of the front drive wheels begin to lose traction
- Four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The latter proportions brake pressure during braking.
Exterior and Interior Highlights
The 2015 Cruze has exterior styling cues inspired by the Malibu, updates include revised treatments such as the front fascia and grille with new projector type fog lamps and LED daytime running lamps. The rear fascia enhancement of the sedan model includes a new deck lid and tail lamp design adding great value and sophistication on the vehicles already well received styling. To complement the fresh new rear and fascia, a new 16″ and 17″ alloy wheel design is now available while the 17″ is optional on all LS models.
The LS models of the 2015 Cruze now also benefit from interior enhancements such as the Chevrolet Mylink Infotainment system with Colour Connected Radio (CCR) as a standard equipment.
Mylink is GM’s umbrella term for infotainment and consists of Bring Your Own Media (BYOM) available in Sonic and Trailblazer and Colour Connected Radio (CCR) available in Orlando and now in the 2015 Cruze. While the two systems have similar functionality, there are some minor differences such as, CCR includes familiar icon based menus much like an iPad, Built in Voice Recognition via your phone and has a CD Playback function.
Cruze comes with a standard service plan offering of 3yrs/60 000km to 5yrs/90 000 km across the range. Also standard with the Cruze is a warranty and roadside assistance covering 5yrs/120 000km and anti-corrosion warranty 5yrs/unlimited km.
How much will the new Cruze Range cost in South Africa?
Hatch:
- Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LS R248 300.00
- Chevrolet Cruze 1.4T LS R265 200.00
Sedan:
- Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 R230 400.00
- Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LS R247 200.00
- Chevrolet Cruze 1.4T LS R262 500.00
- Chevrolet Cruze 1.4T LS A/T R272 400.00
