On the Cruze, the 138-horsepower, turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, which is found on all Cruze trims except for the base LS, gets a 2 mpg improvement over the 2011 model in highway gas mileage when equipped with an automatic transmission. That means most Cruze models are now rated at an EPA-estimated 24/38 mpg city/highway.
Additional upgrades for the 2012 Cruze include the addition of a passive entry and push-button start system, which is standard on the LTZ trim and optional on the 2LT; an automatic transmission is required for the key system. The 1LT trim now gets standard cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port and steering-wheel-mounted controls.
The 2012 Cruze also loses some features. The 1LT and 2LT trims will no longer have a standard automatic transmission. Instead, they’ll come with a six-speed manual standard. The eight-way-adjustable driver and front passenger seats have been replaced with six-way adjustments (seat bottom tilt has been eliminated). In our review of the model, we were impressed with the level of seat adjustments on the 2011 Cruze. Pricing information on the 2012 Cruze isn’t available at this time.
The navigation option has been replaced with what GM is calling a “lower cost touch-screen navigation,” which features a 7-inch screen and flash memory card; the old system used hard-drive memory. Admittedly, just because the system is lower cost to GM doesn’t mean it’s been cheapened.
GM also confirmed that the updated 3.6-liter V-6 engine in the 2012 Camaro, which now produces 323 hp, will get an estimated 30 mpg on the highway in select trims. That’s the same maximum highway rating as the 2011 model, though that one was less powerful.
The Camaro also gets a new backup camera. The image appears in the rearview mirror, which is similar to the Chevrolet Equinox’s system. The feature is standard on the LT and SS coupe and all Camaro convertible trims.
The unique RS taillamps with chrome outlines and darkened lenses are now standard on all models. All Camaros get updated instruments and a new steering wheel. Door locks are now located on the doors as opposed to the center console. A rear spoiler is now standard on all trims and body styles. For additional information, check out our early update post on the model.
The 2012 Camaro will go on sale later this summer. GM hasn’t confirmed a launch date for the 2012 Cruze.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze quietly gains 2 miles per gallon (Autoblog.com)
