Chevrolet, General Motors owned brand, recently launched the refreshed version of Cruze in India through its official website and Facebook page. As seen on the website, the new generation Cruze carries an ex-showroom price of Rs. 13.75 lakh in Delhi. This development did not surprise many as news were recently doing the rounds that the company might be introducing the updated version of Cruze any time soon in the Indian auto market. According to industry experts, with the launch of new Cruze without creating a buzz, General Motors has been mainly resorting to silently introducing its vehicles ever since the Tavera controversy had affected its brand value. The company last followed this practice when it introduced the updated Beat hatchback way back in July this year.
Talking about the new Cruze, it gets new bumpers and a sportier new spoiler at the rear. However, not much has changed from the outgoing version as revamped front fascia gets an all new grille and fog lamp housing. Also to mention, the new Cruze is given with newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels that gives a premium feel to the car, while rear has been left unchanged apart from the addition of a spoiler. In terms of interior appeal, the car still retains old elements as it still comes in all-black interiors and sunroof. However, the safety equipment are also improved as the facelift Cruze gets additional side airbags, which takes the tally to 4 in the top-spec LTZ variant, whereas the base LT variant gets a driver and passenger side airbag.
Coming to the engine performance, the mechanicals are kept same with the 2.0-litre VCDi unit churning out a maximum power of 164 bhp with 380 Nm of torque. The car is available in manual and automatic transmission options with 6-speed gears. General Motors claims that Cruze gives away a fuel economy of 17.3 kmpl and the same has been certified by ARAI. The sedan of Chevrolet is offered in three different trims with entry level LT priced at Rs. 13.75 lakh, the higher grade LTZ at Rs. 15.25 lakh and the automatic LTZ AT at Rs. 16.15 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, New Delhi). It must be noted that this update happens to be second for Cruze in the Indian car market as its 2.0-litre engine was earlier retuned in June 2012.
In the meanwhile, strong reports have indicated that the next generation Cruze that will bear major changes is already in the testing purposes of company and shall make inroads by 2015 in the Indian auto market. Industry experts are saying that with the launch of updated Cruze, the company aims to cash in on the festive season bonanza. In addition, the American auto maker is celebrating first anniversary of Sail U-VA hatchback by placing a five year warranty on it. Also, buyers are eligible for winning a 10 gram gold coin on delivery of the vehicle.
