As of right about now, the Chevrolet Cruze has been arriving onto dealer lots in the U.S. for nearly a full month. Counting its introduction in America, the Cruze is now on sale in 77 countries worldwide. But does this mean that The General can now take a brief rest? Not at all.
General Motors has just launched the Chevrolet Cruze in Argentina, where it will come in two flavors: LT and LTZ. Two engines will also be available: the familiar 1.8-liter petrol 4-cylinder producing 141 hp and 176Nm (129 lbs.-ft.) of torque as well as a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel producing 150 horses and torque of 320Nm (236 lbs.-ft). Transmission choices include a five speed manual for both engines and a six speed automatic for the petrol engine.
Sergio Rocha, GM Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay CEO and Director, says the Cruze has been successful in the markets where it competes and he hopes the trend will continue in Argentina: “We are seeking to reach that same success in the Argentine market, and we have no doubt that we will do it thanks to the Cruze’s perfect combination of elegance, design, innovation, and the level of security offered by this car,” Rocha said.
Hopefully GM has finished introducing the Cruze (Cruzen?) to everyone in the world and can now take a brief. Wait… this just in from GM: the company is now planning to introduce the Cruze in Antarctica.
Source: Buenos Aires Herald
Comments
Yes they have been in US showrooms for about a month, but very few of them. My local dealer has 1, and they had to drive to Ohio to get that one. They have 4 more supposed to be delivered any day.
I would be driving one right now if Chevrolet would get on the ball and get them to the dealers! The one I am getting has been sitting in South Carolina for two weeks waiting to be delivered to the dealer. What is the deal on getting these to the dealers? Chevrolet is wasting so much money on advertising a product that the public wants and likes, but is not in the showrooms yet? WHY????
Seriously, Chevrolet is dropping the ball on the Cruze launch by not having them at the dealerships, this is terribly bad management! They should have either stepped up the shipments and deliveries, or delayed the advertising campaign.
John, interesting point. I know they’re making them as fast as possibile, with a 3-shift schedule at Lordstown.
As for the ad campaign, I don’t think they should have delayed it. There’s a lead time for automotive ads. It’s usually 2-4 weeks in length. People may see the ad and sit on the idea of going to a dealer and driving one. Buying a car is a big decision for most, so there’s quite a bit of that “lead time” for automakers to factor into launching a new vehicle. It’s important to “get them thinking” about the product early – earlier than the car may be widely available on lots across the country, so when the consumer is ready to check it out, they also may be ready (financially and mentally) to make the purchase. Make sense?
What do you think?
Alex Luft
Founder, GM Authority