2008 HOLDEN Cruze 1.8L 5MT FWD (140 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Developed by GM as a world car, the Cruze was tested on the market in Australia, where it was unveiled in 2008. Afterward, it was also launched in Europe and the U.S., wearing the Chevrolet badge.

After GM took over the remains of Daewoo Motor Corporation, it also inherited plans and sketches for future vehicles. One of them was for the platform that was later on named GM Delta II. That formed the base of the Cruze, which became a world car sold worldwide from South America to Northern Europe and Korea to the U.S. Moreover, since the development costs for this vehicle were small, the final price was attractive.

At the front, the Cruze’s front fascia was adorned with a chromed grille that sported a V-shaped slat where the brand’s badge took center stage. The design language was dominated by arched lines and clear-cut angles. An arched roofline extended from the racked windshield to the C-pillars, with an ascending beltline. Out back, the car ended into a relatively short rear deck.

Inside, GM’s designers took the lead and created a modern expression of a traditional Chevy styling, with the “twin cockpit” layout theme carried over from the Corvette. At the front, the two bucket seats offered a mild side bolstering. They were designed mostly for long, comfortable journeys. The center stack featured the infotainment and air conditioning displays and controls. It was extended toward the center console in a curved panel, creating a unitary concept. At the back, there was room enough for three passengers, yet the legroom was not that great.

Under the hood, Holden installed a choice of two engines: a 1.8-liter gasoline and a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel. Power went to the front wheels via either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic with manual function (named Active Select).