2017 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel Yields Jaw-Dropping 52 MPG Highway
The EPA has certified the new Cruze Diesel sedan is good for 52 mpg on the highway
Photo: © General Motors
Earlier this year, GM Executive Vice President of Global Product Development Mark Reuss insinuated that the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel sedan could yield more than 50 mpg on the highway. While that seemed like a lofty goal, in the end it turns out that Reuss was right on the money as the EPA recently certified the new Cruze Diesel will be good for 52 mpg on the highway.
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That means the Cruze Diesel sedan immediately becomes the most fuel-efficient car sold in the United States that doesn’t feature either a hybrid or electric powertrian. That rating of 52 mpg applies only to the Cruze Diesel equipped with the six-speed manual gearbox. That model yields 30 mpg in the city, 52 mpg on the highway, and 37 mpg combined.
The Cruze Diesel is available with either a six-speed manual or nine-speed auto
Photo: © General Motors
The ’17 Cruze Diesel sedan is also available with a new Hydra-Matic nine-speed automatic transmission that includes stop-start technology. While this automatic gearbox is great for drivers who don’t know how to use a clutch, the automatic isn’t quite as efficient as the manual. In fact, the ’17 Cruze Diesel sedan equipped with the new auto is “only” good for 47 mpg on the highway, although it does yield better city fuel economy at 31 mpg. Interestingly enough, both transmissions allow the Cruze to yield 37 mpg combined.
Powering the Cruze Diesel is a new Ecotec 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine rated at 137 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
“Chevrolet is dedicated to offering customers a wide range of propulsion options,” said Steven Majoros, director of Chevrolet Marketing. “We know there are customers looking for the right combination of fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, fuel type and more. With the EPA-estimated 52-mpg highway Cruze Diesel Sedan, they can get it all.”
Automotive News reported that Chevrolet has already begun shipping the ’17 Cruze Diesel sedan to dealers in the US. This car will carry a starting MSRP of $24,670, which includes the $875 destination fee.
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Video: Chevrolet Cruze Diesel Nails 52 MPG Highway
News Source: Automotive News, Motor Trend
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