2011 Chevrolet Cruze to Star at the LA Auto Show

American manufacturer GM confirmed today it will debut the US production version of the Cruze sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show on December 2. It will join the Volt electric vehicle, Camaro and Equinox, the stars of GM's line-up for the next year.

“With expected highway fuel economy up to 40 miles per gallon, Cruze will be extremely gas friendly while the Volt electric vehicle can be operated gas-free," Brent Dewar, Chevrolet vice president said in a release.

“Chevrolet's focus is on forward-looking technologies to the benefit of our customers, such as the highly efficient, small-displacement turbocharged engine in the Cruze or the Volt electric vehicle with extended range.”

The Cruze for the US will be powered by a 1.4l turbocharged engine, the first of the future line of "small-displacement, turbocharged engines that are designed for excellent fuel efficiency and durability."

The car will be released on the American market in the third quarter of 2010. This announcement confirms previous reports that GM is considering a delay in the launch of the new Chevrolet Cruze, initially set to enter the US market in April.

By doing so, GM will have time to add an entire array of US-aimed options, including efficient engines, for the Cruze to get ready for the US market.

The Cruze will become a center model for the brand. GM places it at the top of the 2010 releases and is trying to find ways to stick a price tag on it 'several thousands" dollars above the one of the Cobalt.