2011 Chevrolet Cruze Named 'Urban Car of the Year'

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Nov 30, 2010, 03:24 ET

DETROIT, Nov. 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The all-new Chevrolet Cruze is the Urban Car of the Year as voted by judges at Decisive Media and an independent panel of 15 automotive journalists.

Cruze features the spaciousness and amenities of a midsize car with the fuel economy of a compact. The Cruze Eco model features a new Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine that delivers an Environmental Protection Agency-estimated 42 miles per gallon on the highway, leads the segment in fuel economy. It also is a segment leader in safety features, including 10 standard air bags.

"If you really want to see evidence of a turnaround at GM, look no farther than Cruze," said Lyndon Conrad Bell, editor in chief of Decisive Auto. "Handsome styling, an attractive interior, competent powertrains, an enjoyable driving experience, exceptional practicality, and ready affordability all come together to make the Chevrolet Cruze Decisive Auto's 2011 Urban Car of The Year."

"I was very impressed after driving the new Chevrolet Cruze for the first time," said Randi Payton, publisher of Decisive Media. "I immediately saw it as a contender for Urban Car of the Year and there was no doubt in my mind that our 15 judges would think so too. When the votes were tallied, my predictions rang true."

"We set out to redefine the compact segment with Cruze by offering customers more of the features they want for less money than comparably equipped competitive models," said Margaret Brooks, Chevrolet Small Car marketing director. "The Cruze offers significantly more value than the competition – with more standard equipment, segment leading safety features, segment leading fuel economy and a fun-to-drive ride characteristic."

Cruze pricing ranges from $16,995 to $22,695.

About Chevrolet

Chevrolet is a global automotive brand, with annual sales of about 3.5 million vehicles in more than 130 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. In the U.S., the Chevrolet portfolio includes: iconic performance cars, such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long lasting pickups and SUVs, such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers, such as Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers "gas-friendly" solutions, such as the upcoming 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco model that delivers an EPA-estimated 42 mpg highway, and 2011 Chevrolet Volt that will offer 35 miles of electric driving and an additional 340 miles of extended range with the onboard generator (based on GM testing). Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security, and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response, and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models, fuel solutions, and OnStar availability can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

SOURCE General Motors