Chevy Cruze Eco Delivers High MPG without High-Dollar Technology

While the Chevrolet Volt will boost GM’s image because of its technical innovations, the Chevrolet Cruze could put GM’s bottom line back in the black. One model, the Cruze Eco, is important from a ‘green’ standpoint because it will get a hybrid-like 40 mpg on the highway, without the hybrid’s premium price.

The Cruze Eco uses the same 138-horsepower, turbocharged Ecotec 1.4-liter engine with variable valve timing (VVT) found in the LT and LTZ versions of Cruze. The base LS model comes with a non-turbocharged Ecotec 1.8-liter four-cylinder rated at an estimated 136 horsepower. Mainly because of turbocharging, the smaller Ecotec 1.4-liter produces 148 lb-ft of torque versus 123 lb-ft for the Ecotec 1.8-liter.

Ford’s competing EcoBoost technology uses direct injection in addition to turbocharging, but does not have VVT. Both GM’s Ecotec and Ford’s EcoBoost are designed to perform like a larger engines when needed while retaining the efficiency of a small-displacement, four-cylinder engine under most driving conditions.

The Cruze Eco achieves its improved fuel economy through its efficient engine plus improved aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tires, standard six-speed manual transmission, and an axle ratio optimized for fuel economy. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional but does reduce fuel economy a bit.

The Cruze Eco features a lower front grille air shutter that closes at speeds above 40 mph to improve aerodynamics. It opens at speeds below 34 mph to optimize engine-cooling airflow. The upper grille has more closeouts to improve aerodynamics. Also improving aerodynamic is a lower front air dam extension, extensive use of underbody panels to smooth airflow, rear deck spoiler, and a ten millimeter lower ride height.

The ultra-low rolling resistance 17-inch Goodyear Assurance tires, like those used on the Volt, are mounted on unique 17-inch lightweight aluminum wheels. All Cruze models come with fuel-saving, rack-mounted electric power steering. All this adds up to an ability to accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 10 seconds (about a second less with the automatic transmission) with a 400 mile cruising range.

According to Chevrolet, the four-door Cruze offers the spaciousness and amenities of a midsize car. Bob Lutz, who is credited with inspiring the Cruze, says it is a compact-and-a-half. The EPA classifies the Cruze as a mid-size sedan.

Chevrolet is equipping the Cruze Eco as an upscale model rather than a de-contented stripper. Standard equipment on all Cruze models includes StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, 10 airbags, and one year of OnStar. Options include leather, heated seats, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, XM Satellite Radio, and a navigation system

While the Cruze will first be available in the forth quarter of 2010 – replacing the Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 – versions have been available in other countries for several years. Truly a global car, the Cruze is assembled in South Korea, Russia, China, and India. Cruze models for the United States and Canada will be produced at Lordstown, Ohio. A Holden Cruze will also be built in Australia starting this year. In some markets the Cruze is available with a 2.0-liter VM Motori RA 420 SOHC turbocharged common rail diesel which, if mated to the Eco’s other fuel saving features, could possibly make an even ‘greener’ Cruze.