Biodiesel enthusiasts rejoice. After months — nay, years — of teasing, Chevy has formally announced a clean diesel version of their popular Cruze sedan, currently slated to join the 2014 lineup.
But wait, there’s more.
On top of offering up to 42 mpg highway and 90% less NOx than previous-gen diesel engines, Chevy’s clean diesel Cruze also boasts the automaker’s official seal of approval when it comes to Biodiesel B20, a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel — a big win for fans of the cleaner-burning, more American-made fuel.
While any diesel vehicle can safely run B20 without conversion or modification, an increasing number of auto manufacturers are formally endorsing use of the fuel in their new clean diesel models. Ford, Chevy, Cummins, Isuzu and others have all adopted pro-B20 messages in recent years, with vehicles like Ford’s diesel F-Series Super Duty even bearing a leaf-adorned B20 addition on the vehicle’s iconic Powerstroke badge.
Until recently, diesel passenger vehicles in the US were limited to TDI models from VW, Audi, BMW and Mercedes. Entering the market at ~$25k MSRP and slated to enter production this summer, the Cruze is the first diesel sedan to enter the US market from an American automaker in recent history.
“This Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel represents a new era in diesel performance for American cars,” said Jens Wartha, GM chief engineer in a press release issued by GM earlier this week. “We’ve adapted a proven engine from Europe, the world’s diesel capital, and married it with the emissions-reducing technology that was perfected in the United States. It’s a great example of how Chevrolet’s global resources work harmoniously to produce the right product at the right time and for the right market.”
For those that associate diesel vehicles with rumbly, chugging engines, the diesel Cruze boasts several noise dampening extras that further hush the already-quiet 2.0L turbo diesel motor, including a unique dash mat, hood blanket and more.
Fuel efficiency, greener fueling and a quiet cabin? Sounds good to us.
For full details, view the full press release at GM.com.
To learn more about biodiesel, visit Propel Fuels.
Photo Credit – Chevy Cruze Images: MotorTrend.com
