The 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show is only a few weeks away, and Chevrolet has announced what to expect when showgoers visit its exhibit.
Chevy Spark “Bubble Edition”
The highlight appears to be the limited-run Spark Bubble Edition, which will be available in select European markets.
The sudsy special-edition Spark differentiates itself from other models with white 15-inch wheels, a sportier front bumper and rocker panels, and a choice of white or pink-colored Bubble decals on the front fenders. The interior features leatherette seats, and panel inserts to match the color of the exterior. The center console has also been revised, featuring a new radio unit with Bluetooth connectivity (not MyLink) — which is standard on most trim levels. There’s still a CD player, however, complimented by a USB port and an aux-in jack. Steering wheel controls are also present for ease of streaming and hands-free calling.
Aveo, Orlando Enhancements
In addition, the Chevy Aveo (Sonic) models equipped with the the MyLink infotainment system will receive a backup camera, while the Chevy Orlando will receive active safety features, including Side Blind Spot Alert and Advanced Parking Aid functionality on higher trim levels. Chevy says that the parking aid identifies suitable parallel parking slots at low speeds and gives the driver instructions on how to steer the vehicle. There’s also smartphone integration, heated second-row seats, and the Orlando’s 1.4L turbo can now be mated to a six-speed automatic.
Malibu Diesel, Trax Improvements
What’s more, the European-spec Chevrolet Malibu will enjoy more efficiency thanks to a standard Start/Stop system with the manual transmission model, resulting in reduced fuel consumption of 4.7L/100 km on a combined cycle. CO2 emissions are 125g per km. Further enhancements include a rear view camera on upper trim levels as well as an emergency stop signal that is activated on all variants during emergency braking.
The Trax subcompact crossover, meanwhile, allows for its 1.4L turbo engine to be had in a FWD configuration.
Cruze Upgrades
The European Chevrolet Cruze continues to make American consumers jealous with its multiple body and engine variants, and now with technology to match. On higher trim levels, a new MyLink system with an icon-based display menu will be offered, providing an integrated navigation system, CD player, voice recognition and text-to-speech capability. The new MyLink radio will be available alongside the existing one, and both radios are capable of being updated once new system software and apps become available. Side Blind Zone Alert will also be available on higher trim levels of the Cruze.
Lastly, a choice of four gasoline engines will be available on all body styles of the Cruze beginning this fall. They are:
- Naturally aspirated 1.4L (100 hp/75 kW)
- Turbocharged 1.4L (140 hp/103 kW)
- Naturally aspirated 1.6L (124 hp/91 kW)
- Naturally aspirated 1.8L (141 hp/104 kW)
The diesel line-up, currently consisting of a 1.7L (130 hp/ 96kW) and a 2.0L (163 hp/120 kW) unit, will add a 110 hp (81 kW) variant of the 1.7L oil burner, which will be the cleanest-burning engine in the lineup.
Comments
Uhhh, Europe gets all the good stuff… 🙂
Completely baffles me as to why these yayhoos running things don’t believe America would want them too. Give us a diesel Malibu and Cruze variants please.
“Bubble Edition” Really? Pretty Cheesy! What about a Reggae Edition?
Looks like useful upgrades. I hope NA versions get at least the same gadgetry. Doubtful about getting more engine options here. I note the Cruse is still not getting the 1.6T though…..
I know the whole gay marriage thing has been a hot topic these days but man….GM didnt have to go and get involved like this…a bubble edition??? Really? Oh well hope it sells. I would however like to know how the start/stop feature works on a manual transmission.