The US-market version of the Chevrolet Cruze has been unveiled.
The car has been eagerly anticipated in North America, both because it uses the same underpinnings as the electric Volt, which will be launched in 2011, and because it promises a leap forward from the Cobalt car it replaces.
It's a crucial model for Chevrolet, too, because it must compete in the marketplace with key rivals including the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra and soon-to-be-released Ford Focus.
The Cruze will be available with two engines in the US: a 138bhp turbocharged 1.4-litre unit with 148lb ft of torque, or a naturally aspirated 136bhp 1.8 with 128lb ft of torque. These can be linked to a six-speed automatic or manual gearbox.
Chevrolet says the smaller engine will average 48mpg on the motorway, but has not released any other economy figures.
Stylistically it is little changed from the European version.
Standard equipment includes 10 airbags, stability control, Bluetooth/USB connectivity and sat-nav. It will be sold at three trim levels, although no pricing has been released.
The Cruze goes on sale in the US next autumn.
