Chevy Cruze RS Brings Sporty Looks But No Brawn
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Chevrolet pulled the wraps off the Cruze RS at this week’s New York International Auto Show, alongside the king of efficiency Cruze Eco. The RS is an optional appearance package for the LT and LTZ trim levels that brings sporty proportions to Chevy’s forthcoming C-Segment Delta II-based model.
Outside, the RS package equips the Cruze with unique fascias, rocker moldings, a rear spoiler, as well as fog lamps. The RS interior gets an uplevel instrument cluster, replacing the standard silver finish with chrome accent rings as well as opaque cluster bezels that allow the cluster’s ice blue backlighting to shine through. GM says that this provides “a sporty nighttime appearance.”
According to Michale Simcoe, Executive Director of GM’s North American Exterior Design (who we have on video talking about the design of the Cruze here), “For customers who want even more personality and presence in their vehicle, the RS appearance package builds on the already bold face and coupe-like proportions of the Cruze.”
Since the RS package is only available on the LT and LTZ trim levels, the only powerplant will be GM’s new global 1.4L Ecotec turbo (the base LS model gets the naturally-aspirated 1.8L Ecotec).
The GM Authority Take
It’s not that we don’t like the RS package. In fact, it’s very attractive and is a fairly vast improvement over the standard Cruze. And the fact that Chevy isn’t holding any features back is awesome. But being the enthusiasts that we are, we yearn for the Cruze SS. Perhaps our dream Cruze SS can even wear the body kit of the RS yet be powered by GM’s highly-acclaimed 2.0L Turbo Ecotec I4 from the Buick Regal, where the engine makes 217 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of twist. And while we’re at it, let’s cut two doors off the sedan and make a Cruze coupe! Let’s hope our wishes come true!
Click past the break for the full gallery of the Cruze RS.
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Nice! But we really should get some SS goodness like you said – the Cruze is too good of a car to let it go to waste serving as a simple A to B transportation device. I’ve driven the Cruze in Italy and it’s simply great!
CTS-V baby! Sig!!!
I still dream of and yearn for a rally inspired Chevy. A C-segment with versatile AWD and robust suspension systems.
Manoli Katakis I WANT A CHEV CRUZE RS RALLY CAR TOO
Believe! GM, GM Authority, and beyond!
That may be true. Does Chevy and/or GM compete in rally races?
Unfortunately rallying is uncharted territory for GM. Out of the domestic 3 companies, Ford is the only one. In Europe Ford sold models such as the Escort Cosworth back in the ’90s until the EU decided to be a buzzkill and ordered Ford to cease production because it was too loud. Now they have Internet sensation Ken Block piloting the new Ford Fiesta JWRC to generate even more buzz for the sport.
I bought this car 2-15. I love it. Mine is black fully loaded. Anyone that buys this car will love it!!!!
Was looking at Honda Civic because I was trading a Honda Goldwing, test drove the Cruse RS and bought one for myself, then my son traded his truck for one. We both love the car mine is Imperial Blue and my Sons is Black. I have always been a Chevy fan and been watching the Chevy Cruze on SPEED channel race in the WTCC. The Cobalt was not GM’s best effort but the Cruze is a home run in my book, Thanks Chevy!!!
I purchased a used 2016 Cruze LT, 1.4L, in May, 2018. It is a former rental car itself, so I know the maintenance had been kept up on it. I’m no fool, I did run a Carfax report on it. No discrepancies. I did a lot of business traveling and drove every rental car in this class that is on the market from 2010 to 2017. The first time I drove the Cruze I fell in love with it and told myself I would buy one. After that first time of driving a rental, I would ask for a Cruze. I took my Cruze on its first road trip and it was 760 miles one way. It only took two tanks of gas to get there and two tanks to get back. That is the reason I purchased this vehicle. I already knew what was on the inside, I just needed to know how it would perform on a long trip. I think since the Cruze’s inception it is on its third body style change. If I recall, in 2012 the front end was upgraded to a better suspension. I am a Quality Engineer, and this car definitely passes gets my approval. Thanks Chevrolet.
Just got a Silver 2018 rally sport cruze fully loaded, on star and all, ahhh my very 1st Chevy, I went in for a Trax it was nice but trading my jetta, all leather fully loaded turbo, well guess got spoiled wanted a bit more ump, Just have to get used to pushing a button, and stop looking for where I stick the key. A 4 door is ok, due to lots are going to ask for RIDES