Chevrolet Cruze gets better fuel economy for the 2012 model year

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is making a run at its Eco brother, with a highway fuel-economy rating of 38 mpg with an automatic transmission, 2 mpg more than last it got last year.

A manual transmission is now more widely available on the Cruze, according to the General Motors ordering guide. The 1LT and 2LT models will now be available with the six-speed manual, which should increase the fun quotient with the turbocharged 1.4-liter engine.

Other changes include the addition of Blue Topaz Metallic and Victory Red to the color choices, while Imperial Blue Metallic is discontinued. The navigation system is replaced by a new touch-screen unit. Keyless entry is now available on the 2LT and is standard on the LTZ trim levels.

The Connectivity Plus package is now standard on the 1LT, so the package is no longer offered. Four-wheel disc brakes are now standard on the 2LT, along with 17-inch, five-spoke wheels. The rear center headrest is deleted on all trims and a few of the package options are shuffled around.

By Jake Lingeman