GM has released the first photographs of Chevrolet's all-new Cruze compact sedan which is set to make its global premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October. The Cruze will be available in Europe from March 2009, followed by North America, Asia and other global markets. The 4600mm or 181-in. long sedan that’s based on GM’s new Delta 2 platform, features several design elements from Chevy’s latest offerings like the Malibu-inspired front end. Other distinct design elements include a concave shoulder line and what Chevy calls, a "wheels-out/body-in" stance. Overall, the Cruze looks pretty good though we would like to see it in person for our final take.

Although GM hasn’t released any images of the interior, Chevy supports that the Cruze features a 'twin cockpit' design motif -probably like the one in the American market Malibu. In Europe, the Cruze will be available with 112 HP 1.6-liter and 140 HP 1.8-liter gasoline engines as well with a new 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 HP and 320 Nm of torque. The gearbox menu will include a five-speed manual gearbox and an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission. -Continued

"We are proud that Europe is leading the introduction for this global product," said Wayne Brannon, Executive Director, Chevrolet Europe. "Chevrolet has always stood for expressive value and Cruze delivers on that promise like never before. It further redefines Chevrolet with its design, quality, materials and great style inside and out. The fit and finish for gaps and interfaces sets a new standard for this segment in Europe and around the world."