[SIZE="5"]2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco[/SIZE]

From http://autos.yahoo.com/auto-shows/ne...olet-Cruze-Eco

Who needs a hybrid, or a diesel, when you’ve got the Chevrolet Cruz Eco?
By Matt DeLorenzo | Photos by Marc Urbano



While the wraps have been off the Chevrolet Cruze for some time, the bowtie division cruises into the New York show with a new model, the Eco, and a new RS trim level for this entry-level 4-door sedan.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco, with a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine mated to a 6-speed automatic, returns 40 mpg highway. Jim Campbell, Chevrolet’s vice president of Marketing, says the Cruz Eco “delivers hybrid-like efficiency without the price tag.”

The 1.4-liter turbo Ecotec engine produces 138 bhp and 148 lb ft of torque. Chevy estimates that the Cruze models equipped with this engine will have a highway range of 500 miles.

Among the features that enable the Cruze Eco to return such impressive high fuel economy are unique 17-in. lightweight wheels, low-rolling-resistance tires, an upper grille with more closeouts to improve aerodynamics, a lowered ride height and a special lower grille shutter that closes at speed for better air flow. Other aero devices include a front air dam extension, the use of underbody panels to seal off the floorpan, and a rear spoiler.

Instead of the 6-speed automatic, buyers will be able to opt for a 6-speed manual with optimized gear ratios that will deliver similar fuel economy and a 0 to 60 mph time of about 10 seconds. The automatic, according to Chevy, is nearly a second quicker to 60. The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco goes on sale this fall.

In addition to the regular lineup of Cruze LS (which comes with a 136-bhp normally aspirated 4-cylinder engine), LT and LTZ trim levels, Chevrolet will also offer the RS, which features unique front and rear fascias, rocker extensions, a rear spoiler and fog lamps. The upgraded instruments include chrome accent rings and opaque bezels that allow the instruments blue backlighting to shine through.

More pictures at http://www.roadandtrack.com/auto-sho...allery?cid=183