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CHEVROLET Cruze Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 3
First production year: 2009
Engines: Gasoline, Diesel
CHEVROLET Cruze photo gallery

Chevrolet introduced the second generation of the Cruze on the U.S. market in 2016, and, in 2018, it brought a refreshed version for it in both shapes: sedan and hatchback.

Chevrolet decided to cut the development costs for the Cruze and took almost the entire Opel/Vauxhall Astra K plans in the U.S. Even though it took the bow-tie brand another year to adapt the product for the American market, the result was well worth it. More than half of the Cruze's customers were new to the Chevy brand, and the sedan version had its fans. Moreover, the slow sales of the manual gearbox convinced GM to ditch them from the list and offered the Cruze only with automatic transmissions, fitted as standard, on the 2019 model-year.

Along with the facelift, the Cruze received a new front fascia that sported a broad lower grill in the lower bumper. It was flanked by a pair of side-scoops, which hosted the foglights. On top of that, the new headlights featured new DRLs. The profile revealed new wheel options for the Cruze, while at the back, the carmaker introduced new LED taillights.

Inside, the carmaker added a standard 7" touch-screen display for the infotainment unit. A SiriusXM Satellite radio was on the options list. Also, depending on the trim level, the carmaker added keyless entry and push-button start. The base LT level was also enhanced with new amenities.

Under the hood, the carmaker offered just two options: a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel. The former was paired to either a six-speed automatic, while the oil burner got paired to a nine-speed automatic.

full description and technical specifications
CHEVROLET Cruze photo gallery

The Chevrolet Cruze released in 2016 came with a redesigned exterior, lots of room for the occupants, and more technology and safety features.

In contrast with its predecessor, the new Cruze featured a sharp styling, with upgraded materials and the use of the latest technologies available.

The standard engine was a 1,4-liter turbocharged powerplant that developed with 15 more hp than the previous one. As the car was lighter and the torque was increased, Cruze became more agile.

The small sedan was offered with 4 trim levels: L, LS, LT, and Premier. The standard equipment included 15-inch alloys, air-con, a telescopic steering wheel, an adjustable driver seat, Bluetooth connection, and a 4-speaker audio system. It also had a rearview camera to ease parking and the MyLink infotainment system was equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included.

The LS trim level added a front center armrest and a carpeted floor, and buyers could additionally opt for an automatic transmission.

The LT trim level stepped up with bigger 16-inch alloys, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted controls, a rear center armrest, LED running lights, and heated mirrors. The audio system was improved with 2 more speakers. Buyers could optionally add a so-called “Convenience package” with keyless ignition and entry, heated seats, and others.

Getting closer to the top range, the LT Premier came with 17-inch alloys, an improved rear suspension, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery.

The RS Package that could be added to either the LT or the LT Premier trim level offered 18-inch alloys, foglights, and a sports body kit. The touchscreen increased in size and got to 8-inch and the audio system was a Bose with 9 speakers.

full description and technical specifications
CHEVROLET Cruze photo gallery

The 2009 Chevrolet Cruze sedan was introduced at the 2009 Paris Motor Show. The vehicle appeared on the market during the world financial crisis and it was a mix of good technology at an affordable price.

After GM took over the Daewoo actives, it also took some of its platforms and dealer networks across Europe. In Europe, Daewoo started to open the market for affordable sedans and hatchbacks with the Lacetti model. Chevrolet launched the Cruze, to fill the gap. Unfortunately, the timing was bad. But the car was a decent choice for the buyers.

The Cruze carried Chevy's gold bowtie. It was flanked by distinctive headlamp housings, with 'jewel-effect' detailing, that sweep up, arrow-like, to a point in the front fenders. An arched roofline extended from the raked windshield into the slim rear pillars. It defined the exterior of the Cruze. In the rear, the car ended into a relatively short rear deck.

The core interior design theme was a modern expression of a traditional Chevy styling cue - the signature 'twin cockpit' layout of the Corvette, with “cocoon-like” seats in the front. On each side of the main fascia, there was a choice of colored fabric or grained vinyl panels. The center console featured the infotainment and air conditioning displays and controls. It was mounted at a shallow angle and had a flowing, free form which eliminated straight lines and the traditional 'picture framing' of panels.

For the engine compartment, a variety of diesel and gasoline units were installed. It was available with 5 or 6-speed manual, depending on the engine, and an option for 6-speed automatic for selected models.

full description and technical specifications