Chevy Cruze Diesel Targeting 50-MPG
GM may be looking to brand its new Chevy Cruze Diesel as a performance option for enthusiasts, but that doesn’t mean it won’t deliver impressive fuel economy. In fact, quite the opposite, with the new oil burner, due out next year, targeted at the lofty 50-mpg mark.
Aimed directly at the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, the Cruze diesel will get the same powerplant offered in Europe, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder making nearly identical numbers with 147 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. In Europe the car gets 42-mpg with a 5-speed manual or 36-mpg with an automatic. Those numbers are rather misleading, however, as they’re based on the less strict European test cycle, however, they’re also a “combined” number, averaging out the very high highway mpg rating and the less impressive city number.
“If we’re getting 42 (mpg) on the Eco, we’ll do better on the diesel,” a source tells Ward’s Automotive. “You could envision 50 mpg.”
While the Cruze diesel is expected to cost a premium (priced a few thousand above a comparable gasoline model), according to diesel parts supplier Bosch, the technology pays for itself within just 18 months of purchase.
[Source: Ward’s Auto]
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I haven't had any issues with the VW TDI Jetta either and would recommend it to anyone. As Josh, we get 43/45 on the highway and 36 or so around town. Diesels need to break in to get better mileage so the us test are a bit skewed because they only allow new engines in their testing program. At highway speeds handles like our lexus 350. I am however keeping my eye on the Cruze offering too. Its about time US manufactor's got into the diesel game. I hope soon the 1500 truck lines will go this way.
If it can burn 100% biodiesel, I'm in. Stupit VW can't do it.