When configuring a 2011 Chevy Cruze online, you may have noticed that Chevy offers the 2LT trim level with a set of optional 17-inch 5-spoke flangeless machined-face alloy wheels (say that five times fast). Curiously, opting for the package nets you a sport-tuned suspension. We weren’t entirely sure what, exactly, comprised the “sport-tuned” bit, and thus decided to dig a bit deeper to find out more.
As it turned out, opting for the (absolutely beautiful) 17-inch alloys toughen the already highly-composed ride of the Delta II-based Cruze’s with stiffer springs (a 15 percent higher spring rate), specially-tuned dampers, and an overall lower ride height (of 10mm). The package also replaces the two rear drum brakes with a set of disks.
The GM Authority Take
We highly recommend this $395 option — only available for the Cruze 2LT — to anyone itching for a sharper driving experience — including a noticeably stiffer (read: more sporty) ride and handling characteristics — as well as an unmistakably unique exterior appearance. And while these 17-inchers are optional on the 2LT trim, the stiffer springs and specially-tuned dampers are standard on the top-of-the-line Cruze LTZ, which also happens to add the similarly-elegant 18″ rolling stock. Now if only the bow tie brand offerred a more powerful (1.6 ECOTEC turbo sounds nice!) Cruze with this peppy suspension, we’d be all set!
So there you go — a set of relatively obscure features for us Chevy die-hards. Coincidentally, yours truly just purchased one of these babies (pictured) not more than a month and a half ago. Who’s up for some Cruzen?
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