GM India offers the muscular Cruze in the entry-level D-segment sedans. Competing against European rivals, the Cruze has done fairly well in the Indian market. While the facelift version was expected to arrive at the 2012 Auto Expo in Delhi, the delay was rather displeasing for the Chevy fans. The wait is over, and the Chevrolet Cruze facelift will be introduced in India coming June.
While the outgoing model was one of the best-sellers in the segment, the facelift is total knockout. Not only does it grow in terms of styling and charisma, there is a new Z-Series engine under its hood. As seen on the previously debuted Chevrolet Cruze estate, the facelift sedan gets wider chin on the front, restyled headlamps & fog lamp clusters and sportier air-dams. On the side profile, the lines are similar to the outgoing model, but there are freshly reworked alloy wheels, while sleeker taillights finish the work at rear. The upgrades on the interior are minor with the new ‘MyLink’ smartphone app debuting in the Cruze facelift.
GM offers more exciting power plant for the Chevrolet Cruze facelift. The current model is powered by a 1991 cc VM-Motori petrol engine that thumps 148 bhp peak power. For the facelift version, GM offers a 1998 cc Z-Series engine that adds extra ponies with a final output of 161 bhp and 360 Nm torque. Not only is it quicker and faster, but GM claims that the new motor is more refined and gives superior drivability. With an improved turbocharger, the Cruze facelift has reduced turbo-lag with improved fuel-efficiency and emission figures.
Transmission options include a six-speed manual and automatic version. Pricing will also see a marginal update, with 3-4 percent more pegged for the new Cruze sedan. This will put the ex-showroom prize tag at Rs 13.5 lacs in the Cruze manual, while the automatic trim will be offered at Rs 16 lacs. Looking at the upgrades on the new Cruze, it is worth waiting a little longer until the product hits the showroom.