Cruze first-class, but travel economy

Economy travel needn’t be basic – and the latest version of the race-proven Chevrolet Cruze is the proof, thanks to the addition of a new fuel-efficient, low CO2 engine that gives the model even broader appeal to private and fleet customers alike.
 
With CO2 emissions of just 117g/km, the newcomer qualifies for free road tax for the first year and a benefit-in-kind tax commitment of just 17 per cent. Coupled to Chevrolet’s traditional high specification and keen pricing, that makes the latest Cruze one of the best value five-door family hatchbacks on the road.
 
Yet despite its excellent fuel economy, the Cruze 1.7 VCDi offers the kind of performance you wouldn’t expect from a car with such low emissions. Developing 130PS and 300Nm of torque, it accelerates from 0-60mph in 9.4 seconds and has a top speed of 124mph.
 
Chevrolet UK Managing Director Mark Terry said: “The new 1.7 VCDi gives Chevrolet a real opportunity to compete in the core area of the five-door hatchback market, where tax implications, fuel economy and CO2 emissions are critical. Already a hit with private buyers, this new engine gives Cruze a much broader appeal to fleets and really helps underline our commitment to growth in this key business area. With the five-door now established in the market and a Station Wagon imminent, the Cruze range keeps getting better and better, and is just what our customers and dealers are requesting.”
 
Three trim levels will be available, with equipment identical to comparable models in the Cruze line-up. The entry-level LS, which comes with such features as air conditioning, ESC, remote central locking, follow-me-home headlamps, electrically-adjustable mirrors and electric front windows, is priced at £16,725, while the mid-range LT is £17,825. The range topping LTZ, priced at £18,685, is one of the best-equipped cars in its class, with standard cruise control, 17-inch alloys, auto-dimming mirror, automatic headlights, climate control, rain-sensing wipers and aluminium-effect interior detailing.
 
Available initially in the five-door Cruze, a Station Wagon variant of the 1.7 VCDi model will appear later in 2012, giving the car even greater appeal to fleet and retail customers.
 
The car is available to order now, with the first deliveries to customers in May.