2011 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback: Production Model to Debut at Geneva Motor Show

Chevrolet today announced that the production version of the Cruze hatchback will make its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Considered to be a critical model for Chevrolet in Europe, the 5-door Cruze was first teased at last year’s Paris Motor Show with a pre-production study.

“Hatchbacks play a critical role in many markets. The total compact segment in Europe represents over a quarter of the total market, with hatchbacks representing around 65% of that volume”, said Wayne Brannon, president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe. “The new Cruze hatchback cements that Chevrolet's claim for a place among the mainstream brands in Europe, and it's a vehicle that will bring new levels of value against some of the more established competition”.

With its sweeping lines, short overhangs and, in our opinion, better looking rear quarter compared to the sedan, the hatchback is said to be “particularly well suited to European driver tastes”. To achieve this, it uses the same body-frame integral system (BFI) chassis complemented by some fine-tuning and the four-door model’s engine range, plus new additions, such as the Orlando MPV’s 163HP 2.0-liter diesel powerplant.

From a practical standpoint, the new model loses 50 liters of cargo space for a total of 400 liters, but the large liftgate and 60/40 split rear seating should compensate in terms of practicality.

The Cruze hatchback is due in Europe in mid 2011 and prices will be announced closer to the launch date. It will also be available as a Holden in Australia.

By Csaba Daradics

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Chevrolet Sells 4.26 million Vehicles Globally in 2010, an Average of One Every 7.4 Seconds

With the global market showing faint signs of recovery, 2010 was a good year for Chevrolet. The American automaker managed to shift 4.26 million vehicles worldwide or an average of one vehicle every 7.4 seconds. The brand’s share of global sales grew by 0.35 points as it accounted for about 5.8 percent of all vehicles sold worldwide. According to GM, Chevy was the only Top 5 manufacturer to increase its total market share last year.

Fourth quarter sales totaled 1.14 million units, of which 416,826 vehicles were sold in December, marking the 15th consecutive monthly increase and best December ever in the company’s history.

“Chevrolet’s dedication to compelling designs, quality, durability and great value is a winning formula that resonates with consumers around the world”, said Joel Ewanick, GM global chief marketing officer. “We will continue to listen to our customers and do our utmost to deliver what it takes to bring them into the Chevrolet family”.

Brazil, Russia, India and China – also known as the BRIC countries – accounted for about 33% of Chevrolet’s sales posting an increase of 2 percentage points over 2009..

In Brazil, Chevrolet retailed 657,697 vehicles, which is an all-time record and an impressive 78% increase compared to five years ago. It was a record-breaking year in India as well, with sales surpassing 100,000 units for the first time, while in China the manufacturer experienced a sales growth of 63%, with a total of 543,700 vehicles sold. In Russia, demand was up about 12% and Chevrolet remained the most popular international brand in the country.

Chevrolet sales jumped 12% in Europe as well, resulting in a best-ever overall market share of 2.5%. A total of 477,000 vehicles were delivered in 2010, as the maker achieved positive results in 21 countries.

The U.S. remains Chevrolet’s largest market with total sales reaching 1.57 million vehicles (+16%). The brand represented more than 70% of GM’s overall sales.

Last year saw the introduction of several important models, such as the Volt plug-in hybrid, Cruze compact car and Silverado full-size pickup truck in the U.S.; New Sail small car and Spark mini in China; Viva pickup in Brazil and Orlando compact minivan in Europe.

The five best-selling Chevrolet nameplates in 2010 were:

1. Silverado full-size pickup truck, 435,269 units

2. Cruze compact car, 334,976 units

3. Aveo small car, 322,234 units

4. Malibu midsize car, 221,550 units

5. Impala full-size car, 183,551 units

By Csaba Daradics

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