Motoring: Chevrolet Cruze Sales Pass 270,000 as Introduction Nears

Even before the first models reach U.S. dealers, the Chevrolet Cruze is among the fastest-growing nameplates in the world with sales rising an average of 18 percent per month.

Internationally, customers have purchased 140,000 Cruze in the first six months of 2010 and a total of 270,000 since Cruze launched in the spring of 2009 in Europe, followed by other major markets, such as China in summer of 2009.

Cruze is currently available in more than 60 countries, with China, Russia, Mexico, India and Spain as the top five sales markets. Including Holden and Daewoo versions sold in Australia and South Korea, total sales exceed 340,000 vehicles across five continents.

Cruze will begin arriving at U.S. dealerships in September. With U.S. models produced in Lordstown, Ohio, Cruze will be the only compact car built in the U.S. for the 2011 model year. Production at the Lordstown complex will begin with three shifts, assembling Cruze models around the clock to meet expected customer demand.

"Customers around the world have already made Cruze an international success, setting the stage for it here in the U.S.," said Margaret Brooks, director of marketing for Chevrolet small cars. "For U.S. customers, Cruze will be priced to compete with compact cars while offering more interior room, more miles per gallon in the Eco model, and more standard safety features."

Cruze models will start at $16,995 for the LS model, equipped with the most standard safety features in its segment, including 10 air bags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control and anti-lock brakes.

The Cruze Eco model starts at $18,895, featuring a standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed manual transmission. With ultra low-rolling resistance tires, and an enhanced aerodynamic-performance package, Cruze Eco is expected to deliver 40 miles per gallon on the highway. Canadians can expect to see the Chevy Cruze sometime in September.

The top of the line Cruze LTZ model starts at US $22,695 and features a standard six-way power driver seat, leather seating surfaces, cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port with audio interface, ultrasonic rear-parking assist, and 18-inch alloy wheels.