An Examination of the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze Unveiling
Unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze comes to the fore with a refreshed design and augmented interior features. The model takes a stride forward with elevated connectivity, including innovative services such as Text Message Alerts, integration with Apple Siri and OnStar 4G LTE, which is paired with a Wi-Fi hotspot option.
Enhanced Exterior and Interior
Design modifications of the 2015 Cruze have drawn inspiration from the newly minted Impala and the redesigned 2014 Malibu. The updated look encompasses the LS, LT, RS and LTZ models of the Cruze. One of the prominent attributes of the exterior is the dual-port front fascia, which borrows stylistic elements from the Impala and Malibu, thus consolidating Chevrolet's sedan range's visual consistency.
On the inside, a range of changes enhances the user convenience. The revisions include the repositioning of the trunk release to the center console, relocation of the door lock switches to the front doors, and improved cupholders designed for smoother insertion and removal of cups. Color options have also been expanded for both exterior and interior for the 2015 models.
Efficiency and Performance
The Cruze's performance parameters put forth two notable models: the Cruze Eco and Cruze Diesel. The former carries an EPA-rated fuel efficiency of 42 mpg on the highway, while the latter touts an impressive EPA 46 mpg highway rating, making it the most efficient non-hybrid passenger car in the American market. In a comparative frame, the Cruze Diesel surpasses the efficiency of the Volkswagen Jetta TDI by roughly 10 percent, offering more horsepower and torque.
Safety Features
The Cruze 2015 impresses with its safety feature suite, arguably one of the most comprehensive in its class. It equips 10 standard airbags, including knee airbags for the front passengers and side-impact airbags. Moreover, it comes with optional side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear park assist, and a rearview camera.
Connectivity and Convenience
The connectivity in the 2015 Cruze has been ramped up significantly. The car brings in a new feature, Text Message Alerts, designed for smartphone users with a Bluetooth profile (M.A.P.). It is a voice-controlled feature that reads out incoming texts via the car's speakers. Moreover, Siri Eyes Free is available for iPhone iOS 6 and iOS 7 users, adding to the convenient voice-controlled connectivity.
Other standard and available features include a seven-inch-diagonal color touch screen, additional USB ports, natural language voice recognition for OnStar and MyLink enhancements, navigation, and the Chevrolet AppShop. These features enhance both the convenience and safety of the car by minimizing distractions and promoting hands-on-the-wheel driving.
Small Car, Big Results
As a central figure in Chevrolet's North American small-car lineup, the Cruze is noted for its growing market share and appeal to young, first-time buyers. Its global popularity is undeniable, with more than 2.5 million units sold since its launch in mid-2010.
Chevrolet's small-car segments, which include the Spark, Spark EV, Sonic, Cruze, and Volt, have shown a significant 15.4-percent sales increase in the first quarter of 2014. With the launch of the 2015 Cruze, Chevrolet anticipates a continuation of this growth trend.
