GM has announced that the turbo version of their latest Cruze will offer improved fuel economy. From returning 36 mpg on the 2011 model, the LT and LTZ versions (the two most popular six-speed automatic versions of Cruze models with the 1.4-liter turbo engine) will get about 38 mpg on the highway run.
Meanwhile, the automatic Cruze Eco, a more expensive variant of the turbo version which is more aerodynamic, will return about 39 mpg highway, an improvement from the previous 37 mpg. GM attributes the boost in fuel economy to having a lower axle ratio. GM claims that the Eco with a six-speed manual gearbox has an EPA highway rating of 42 mpg, making it the most fuel-economic non-hybrid vehicle in the U.S. Chevrolet’s partner in Malaysia has not confirmed when this latest Cruze will be seen in Naza Quest showrooms.