GM unveils the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze at the Beijing Auto Show

The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze has broken cover at the ongoing Beijing Auto Show in China. Developed by GM’s global R&D team, the new Cruze has been designed specifically for the Chinese Domestic Market (CDM). Based on an all-new architecture, GM claims that the new platform has been designed to set “new benchmarks in the segment for fuel economy, handling and intelligent technology."

A completely undisguised model was snapped in China a few days ago which had given us the first glimpse of the new car. The new Cruze has been sculpted along  GM’s new design language, carrying the slogan ‘Design with a Heartbeat’. The car borrows design cues from the Tru 140S Concept Coupe, which was unveiled at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show and features an aerodynamic front fascia with a dual-mesh grille and Dodge Dart-like headlights, complete with chrome-plated trims. The car has aggressive lines all over, complete with a rakish windscreen, a coupe-like roofline and short overhangs.

GM will offer the Cruze in two engine options, both from the company’s new Ecotec family of small capacity engines. The car will be available with either a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine or a 1.4-litre, direct-injected, turbocharged unit. Transmission options include a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, a six-speed automated manual and a six-speed automatic. GM claims that the new engines will return 14-21 per cent better efficiency figures than the predecessors.

While the US-spec Chevrolet Cruze will be given a major facelift, GM says that the all new car is still around 18 months away and will be different than this CDM model. In India, the Cruze was recently given a minor facelift, though in essence, it is the same car which was launched in 2009. Even if GM does decide to bring this car to India, it might take anywhere between six months to a year for the new Cruze to be launched here.