The updated Chevrolet Cruze saloon has made its debut at the New York Motor Show today. The focus of the revised model is on exterior styling and technology.
Outside, the minor changes mimic the American market’s latest Impala and Malibu saloon. LED daytime running lights are fitted to higher-spec Cruze models. A new front fascia, including revised headlights, is also included.
The biggest Cruze news, however, comes with its connectivity. A seven-inch color touchscreen is standard in the USA, as is voice recognition and a 4G LTE wireless connection with a wi-fi hotspot. Enhanced Bluetooth integration features text message alerts. The newest Cruze also offers Apple’s Siri Eyes Free, for full voice control of a connected iPhone. Chevrolet’s App Store allows owners to download weather, news, travel, and other information.
Two petrol engines - a 1.8-litre and a turbocharged four-cylinder in-line 1.4-litre unit - as well as a 2.0-litre diesel engine carry over in the US market. There's no confirmation of specific changes to the two 1.7-litre diesel engines presently offered on Cruze models in UK.
Chevrolet has sold more than 2.5 million Cruze models worldwide since its launch in 2010, making it their best-selling model. The revised 2015 version goes on sale later this year. However, company officials have confirmed the new model will not go on sale in the UK, due to Chevrolet's plans to pull out of Europe by 2015.
