The Chevrolet Cruze has only just landed in South Africa and already a new model, specifically for America has rolled out of the factory. It is set to go on sale in the states early in 2016 and then be exported to 40 countries around the globe.

New Chev Cruze Details

Don’t be entirely fooled by its good looks in these pictures, this Cruze is specced with RS kit that adds a few special touches. The RS trim level also comes with 18-inch wheels and a rear spoiler. The new Cruze rides on a longer platform with a larger wheelbase that improves rear legroom. The extra size hasn’t affected the weight of the Cruze, which claims to have actually shed 113kg. It’s also 27% stiffer than before and more aerodynamic according to its drag coefficient number.

Chevrolet will also be adding a new 1.4-Litre turbo engine to the range that works with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed auto. Claimed output is 113 kW and 240 Nm of torque, plenty for a family sedan. With this particular engine, Chev says the Cruze can get from 0-100kph in 8-seconds flat and use just 5.8L/100km on the combined cycle.

Inside the infotainment system has been enlarged to seven-inches with the option of eight-inches. The Cruze will feature new technical highlights like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, there’s also the Chev MyLink system and navigation built in.