Seems like a nice and much improved car, especially weight reduction while at the same time reducing NVH. The previous version was already better than most compacts re: NVH. Saw two of the sedans yesterday, one with the RS package which is way better looking than the previous Cruze IMHO.
I see from this morning's news that GM is making potfuls of profits from making boxes instead of cars and, of course, everything it does in China. Previously at or near the front of the industry with performance, it now appears GM's new formula for making money excludes same. GM has nothing in two major car segments, compacts and mid size, which have optional engines anywhere close to being competitive. And in the case of compacts, no option at all, when its easy for them to do. Plus, they walked away from the compact near luxury segment entirely after only one try.
Its clear they said to buyers like me, "and don't let the door hit you on the way out". Too bad they can't see the writing on the wall that says there's a 10-20% sales boost at higher gross margins available in the compact car market, and perhaps 5-10% in the mid size by making something competitive to the Fusion Sport and comparable European/Asian offerings. Plus, surely they know there is a Hyundai G70 and Kia GT coming in the relatively near future too.
As an owner, its sad.
