The bi-quarterly performance Chevy Cruze rumor is back, and is some form of solace to the news of the American market losing the Cruze hatchback (in its current form). As for the sportier Cruze, it’s said to have more athletic credentials, but that could simply mean that the current RS version becomes more than just a body kit.
When looking at the 2013 Sonic RS, we could see a flat-bottom steering wheel and other exclusive interior features, plus a tighter suspension system, better brakes and more appropriate gearing to go with the more rakish looks. If that’s the case, chances are that the 1.4L turbocharged Ecotec engine will remain in the engine bay, though we would love to see a turbocharged 1.6L or even a 2.0L someday. In the meantime, the upcoming Ford Focus ST, VW Golf GTI, and Honda Civic Si will continue to attract young buyers looking for a hot tuner car.
Source: AutoGuide
Comments
As Arnold would say, “come on don’t Bull Sh@t me”.
This is some real bull$hit. Why does GM not want to serve an obvious market demand?
I understand the that Verano is supposed to offer a turbocharged engine in the future, so this might make sense.
The Verano is a luxury vehicle, not a Chevy. We’re talking about an affordable performer, not a quiet and luxurious vehicle.
Hey Einstein, aka “Silent Electrician,” if you aren’t already aware, the Verano and Cruze share the same Delta II platform, as well as some components beneath the sheetmetal. It would only make sense to employ the same turbocharger for both models, thereby saving on cost and part redundancy. Sure, boost and hp may differ, but chances are the same supplier will provide chargers for both models.
there will be one at mid cycle which is not far off with a 2.0 or 2.5 but it might be the two door internal discussions still going on final product being based on cruze or ATS both are possible and both were experimented with at NAIAS which one do you want?
Why not offer a 2.0L turbo Cruze in multiple body styles to effectively compete with the competition? Golf GTI and Focus ST are both hatches, while Jetta GLI is a sedan and Civic Si is offered as both a coupe and sedan. New Dodge Dart also looks to impress young enthusiasts. I loved the design of the Tru 140s… but needs the fortitude to match the looks.
Code 130R would make an awesome rival to the Scion FRS/ Subaru BRZ (and Miata?) from the sound of it and would pick up where the Solstice Coupe left off… but do what what Toyota/Subaru failed to do and offer a completely stripped model. That way the car is sold at an affordable price to young people like me and it gives them the ability to customize their interior. Radio delete, rear seat delete, basic fabric seats that will end up being replaced with racing seats. Engines as small as 1.4L turbo Ecotec and as big as 3.6L LFX (I know it can fit) — budget BMW 1 Series/1M.
If you can somehow get AWD into the mix, such a Chevy will be the new car to have on Woodward Ave, where many tuner kids can be seen with Subarus and Mistsubishi EVO models. Several of my friends are AWD enthusiasts, and they don’t even consider GM because they offer no compact AWD performance cars.
Don’t worry about how many of either model will be sold. It’s about making a statement and building a better reputation as an automaker. Nobody would see GM doing this… surprise everybody. Tell the accountants to stay home.
Manoli, Great post! I support your idea all the way!
But then why the Hatch is a no-go?
The Verano 2.0 turbo will come as 6spd stick and why no hot cruze/hatch for the same reason we dont get caprice poor product managment