Chevrolet announced pricing today of the 2011 Cruze that is replacing the compact Cobalt. The brand new Cruze starts at $16,995 for the base LS trim and rises to $22,695 for the LTZ. Priced to compete in the compact-car segment, the Cruze offers more interior room, more miles per gallon in the Eco model, and more standard safety features than any of its competitors.

 

"We believe the Cruze can redefine the expectations for compact-car owners and shoppers who are new to the segment," said Jim Campbell, U.S. Vice President of Chevrolet Marketing. "For the price of a compact car, Cruze offers the styling, safety features, roominess, amenities, and refinement of a much more expensive car."

The 2011 Cruze will be offered in four trim levels:

 

Cruze LS starting at $16,995, includes:

* Standard 1.8L Ecotec engine and six-speed manual transmission
* The most standard safety features in the segment, with 10 air bags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, collapsible pedal system, power rear-door child safety locks
* Standard OnStar, with a six-month subscription including Turn-by-Turn navigation
* Standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, driver information center, and XM Radio with three month trial subscription

 

Cruze LT starting at $18,895, includes:

* Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
* 16-inch wheels

 

Cruze Eco starting at $18,895, includes:

* Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed manual transmission
* Segment-leading expected 40 miles per gallon highway
* Standard 17-inch alloy wheels with ultra low-rolling resistance tires, and enhanced aerodynamic performance package

 

Cruze LTZ starting at $22,695, includes:

* Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
* Standard six-way power driver seat, leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
* Standard cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port with audio interface, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and remote vehicle start
* Standard automatic climate control, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, and ultrasonic rear-parking assist
* 18-inch alloy wheels

 

Options that will be available on the Cruze include:

* In-dash navigation system with 40-gigabyte hard drive, enabling pause-and-play radio, downloading of audio CDs, or transferring MP3 files from a USB memory device
* Pioneer Audio system, with nine speakers and 250-watt amplifier
* Heated leather seats
* Ultrasonic rear park assist
* RS Appearance package, including rocker moldings, unique front and rear fascias, front fog lamps, and rear spoiler

 

theCD's take: The Cruze LS costs $1,300 more than the Civic DX, but comes standard with so many more tech and safety features.

 

Source: GM