Chevy Cruze Eco Delivers Over 40 MPG

Looking for a car that gets great fuel mileage and doesn't require heavy, expensive batteries? Chevrolet delivers with the Cruze Eco, adding features to its standard Cruze model that greatly improve efficiency without compromising driveability. The EPA rates this roomy four-door compact at a whopping 42 miles per gallon highway, however road tests have proven that the Cruze Eco is capable of much better.

So what did Chevy do to push this car close to 50 MPG without converting it into a hybrid? First of all, weight reduction saves fuel. Changes to the wheels and elsewhere on the car were instrumental in shaving off pounds.

Secondly the aerodynamics have been tweaked to allow the vehicle to move more efficiently through the atmosphere. One example of a fuel-saving feature are louvers that restrict the flow of air into the engine compartment when not needed, reducing drag. Last but not least, the powertrain has been optimized for efficiency. Low rolling resistance tires also reduce drag between the Cruze Eco and the pavement.

General Motors is positioning the Cruze Eco to compete directly with such popular fuel sippers as the Toyota Prius and Corolla and the Honda Civic. Pricing starts at $19k and the car comes in six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Of course, the automatic drivetrain will shave a few miles per gallon off of your total.

For those who like detailed specifications, the Chevy Cruze Eco weighs just over 3,000 pounds. The car sports a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. With a 12.6 gallon fuel tank, the Cruze Eco shaves off pounds but maintains a 500-mile plus highway range. Put together, all of these small changes to the Cruze add up to a significant increase in efficiency.