The fuel economy figures for the upcoming Chevrolet Cruze Eco have been revealed.
The non-hybrid 2011 model will achieve an estimated 42mpg on the highway with city fuel economy of 28mpg. The highway figure places it ahead of many non-hybrid segment competitors including the Honda Civic, the Ford Fiesta and even hybrid models such as the Ford Fusion Hybrid, the Nissan Altima Hybrid and the Toyota Camry Hybrid.
Much of the focus for the vehicle has been on aerodynamic improvements – they alone are said to add around six mpg to its figures. Among the all-new technology is a lower front grille air shutter that closes at higher speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag; and ultra-low rolling resistance 17” Goodyear tyres which are also used on the Chevrolet Volt.
The mass of the vehicle has also been optimised thanks to 42 changes that were made on the Eco model to reduce weight – it weighs 3,009lbs compared to 3,223lbs with the Cruze 1LT. Engineers looked at all aspects of the vehicle’s construction including the weld flanges on the vehicle which were reduced 1mm to 2mm in length, saving several pounds.
An efficient powertrain has also been employed in the form of an Ecotec 1.4litre turbocharged engine and a standard six-speed manual transmission. The transmission’s gearing is optimised for the 17” wheel/tyre combination and includes aggressive ratios for first and second gear. It achieves 148lb-ft of torque between 1,850rpm and 4,900rpm.
The Cruze Eco carries an MSRP of $18,895 and will go on sale in January.
