2014 Beijing Motor Show: 2015 Chevrolet Cruze gets updated for Chinese market

Article by Christian A., on April 22, 2014

Back in March the new-generation Chevrolet Cruze was caught undisguised but today the new vehicle was officially introduced at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show a.k.a. Auto China 2014. According to the official press release, the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze was developed by GM's global R&D team and the goal was to set new benchmarks in the segment in terms of fuel economy, handling and intelligent technology.

The 2015 Cruze is inspired by the Chevrolet Tru Concept, which was unveiled at the Auto China 2012, and comes with coupe-like flowing lines that support enhanced aerodynamics. The front end features a dual-mesh grille that extends to the stylish headlights, LED daytime running lights and new hood that shows aggressive design lines. From the side, we observe the chrome-plated trim that stretches from the outside rearview mirrors to the rear seat windows.

Under the hood, there is a new-generation Ecotec small-displacement engine co-developed by GM and SAIC. 2015 Cruze offers a segment’s first 1.4L mid-mounted direct injection turbocharged engine or the first 1.5L mid-mounted naturally aspirated engine.

Chevrolet will offer the 2015 Cruze with the all-new DCG seven-speed dual-clutch transmission co-developed by GM and SAIC, an all-new six-speed manual transmission developed in Europe, and the third-generation S6 six-speed automated manual transmission. Comparing it with the outgoing version, the 2015 Cruze promises to deliver a fuel economy improvement of 14-21 percent.

In terms of dimensions, the new Chevrolet Cruze is longer (by 2.7 inches or 68 mm) and lower (by nearly an inch or 25 mm) than its predecessor. Along with a faster windshield rake and a faster-sloping rear profile, these dimensions give the new Cruze a longer, leaner and sportier appearance. The new Cruze also features an integral rear spoiler that makes the car more aerodynamically efficient.

This sleek profile of the new Chevrolet Cruze is boosted by a layered line work in the bonnet and side panels, which makes the car seems more muscular. Furthermore, its longer wheelbase gives the Cruze a more athletic stance.

John Cafaro, executive director at Chevrolet Design, remarked that the styling of the new Cruze was influenced by the 2014 Impala and the all-new Malibu. He added that with the 2016 Cruze, Chevrolet's new global design language is coming to the small car segment.

Cafaro remarked that the approach to proportion and premium details of the Cruze further elevates Chevrolet's level of craftsmanship, quality and content. He noted that the Cruze brings a fresh interpretation of Chevrolet’s unmistakable identity to every market in the world.

Press Release

Shanghai GM Launches Trax and Introduces New Cruze at Chevrolet Night in Beijing

Shanghai GM this evening launched the Chevrolet Trax, its new urban SUV, and hosted the world premiere of the new-generation Chevrolet Cruze at Chevrolet Night in Beijing. The two products are among the 11 Chevrolet models that will be on display at Auto China 2014, which opens tomorrow.

Chevrolet Trax

The Trax urban SUV has a dynamic, muscular exterior with large, 18-inch wheels. Its flexible interior has 25 storage spaces and can carry up to 1,372 liters of cargo. Powering the Trax is a 1.4L turbocharged engine that is mated with a new six-speed automated manual transmission. The Trax generates maximum output of 103 kW and 200 Nm, while achieving fuel economy of 6.9 L/100 km.

The Trax comes with the intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which enables it to effectively take on slippery and bumpy roads. The Trax received a five-star safety rating in Euro NCAP testing. It benefits from eight major safety systems, including Electronic Stability Control, Curve Braking Control and Rollover Mitigation.

To meet the demands of younger customers, the Trax comes with the latest Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system. Its 7-inch full-color touch screen supports a number of user-friendly functions such as eyes-free integration, multimedia entertainment and navigation.

The Trax will be available in China at a price of RMB 119,900 - 159,900. Taiwanese actor Kai Ko and actress Amber Kuo will serve as ambassadors for the Trax across China.

New-Generation Chevrolet Cruze

The much-anticipated new-generation Chevrolet Cruze represents GM's newest entry in the midsize compact car segment. It was developed by GM's global R&D team, which gave the Cruze a new clean-sheet design and brand-new architecture. The team's goal was to set new benchmarks in the segment for fuel economy, handling and intelligent technology.

The new Cruze offers the first expression of Chevrolet's next-generation design language characterized by the slogan "Design with a Heartbeat." Developed with a focus on efficiency and inspired by the Chevrolet Tru Concept, which appeared at Auto China 2012, it features coupe-like flowing lines that support enhanced aerodynamics. A compact body, wheels pushed out to the corners of the car, shorter front and rear overhangs, and a roofline that stretches to the rear make for a spacious interior. A dual-mesh grille extends to the sleek headlights to create a more dynamic visual effect. Chrome-plated trim stretches from the outside rearview mirrors to the rear seat windows, conveying a rhythmic refinement.

The new Cruze is the first model featuring the new-generation Ecotec small-displacement engine co-developed by GM and SAIC. It is available with a choice of the segment's first 1.4L mid-mounted direct injection turbocharged engine or the first 1.5L mid-mounted naturally aspirated engine. The new Cruze is also offered with the all-new DCG seven-speed dual-clutch transmission co-developed by GM and SAIC, an all-new six-speed manual transmission developed in Europe, and the third-generation S6 six-speed automated manual transmission. The powertrains provide best-in-class fuel economy, ride comfort, emissions and quiet performance. The new Cruze is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of 14-21 percent compared with its predecessor.

Chevrolet Transformers 4 Stars

Three Chevrolet vehicles that will star in this summer's blockbuster Transformers 4 – the Camaro TF4 Concept, Corvette Stingray and Trax – will make their grand debut at Auto China 2014. A 3.3-meter-tall android that transformed itself from the Trax and a 2.0-meter-tall Camaro robot will show visitors the magic of the movie. The Trax is joining the autobot team for the first time in the fourth installment of the popular Transformers franchise.

In the movie, the Corvette Stingray will transform into a partner of Optimus Prime to lead the autobots onto the battlefield. In reality, the Stingray is the seventh generation of the Corvette, which was originally launched in 1953. Its newly designed 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine boasts maximum output of 338 kW and 635 Nm, resulting in 0-100 km/h acceleration time of only 4 seconds. In addition to a refreshed exterior and interior, the Stingray features a new body structure, chassis and powertrain, as well as other innovative technologies.

The Camaro TF4 Concept has a handsome exterior, with a futuristic-looking front end and body. It has special paint and improved aerodynamic pockets that forge a strong combination of sport and science.
General Motors traces its roots back to 1908. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 58,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. Passenger cars and commercial vehicles are sold under the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. In 2013, GM sold nearly 3.2 million vehicles in China. More information on General Motors in China can be found at GM Media Online.