Canadian car of the year goes eco

TORONTO -- There are some key differences that will help 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco owners maximize every penny at the gas pump, despite their car's having the same efficient 138-hp 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder gas engine and basic price ($19,495) as an LT Turbo model.

For starters, the coefficient of drag is 0.298 versus the standard model's 0.33, which is a 10% improvement. Louvres in the lower front grille automatically open and shut for better aerodynamics or engine cooling depending on driving conditions. Eco also sits 10 cm closer to the ground and gets more underbody cladding for better airflow.

Eco models with the manual transmission get a lightweight acoustics package while the rear centre head restraint, rear Z-link and spare tire/cover (sealant/inflation kit provided) are deleted. Even the chassis welds have been ground down an extra millimetre to shed as much weight as possible.

Return to top