Holden is making no secret about the importance of the new Cruze -- not only to its short-term prospects but also its long-term viability. Holden managing director Mark Reuss has hailed the car as pointing the direction for the future of the company.
"The small car market is the largest growing segment in the Australian market and this is our response to that change," Reuss says.
"Cruze will play a significant role in Holden's future and presents us with a new generation car, a new design and a new way of thinking.
"It is a world class small car that has the perfect blend of both style and substance, all from the base model to the top of the range."
The Cruze is one of GM's global cars and is already sold around the world as the Chevrolet Cruze. It is based on the Delta II platform and has been designed and engineered to cater for markets in Europe and Asia as well as North America.
The Cruze will pave the way for Holden's new compact offering, to be built at its Elizabeth plant in South Australia from next year. The locally made car is expected to be based on the same platform and share many common parts.
The range will include the 1.8-litre four-cylinder ECOTEC and 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engines that will be offered in the Cruze when it goes on sale early in the second quarter of this year. Both engines will be available with either five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission options.
Holden is pushing the Cruze as a sophisticated and sporty compact offering, claiming it possesses 'four-door coupe' styling combined with the appeal as a mid-size sedan.
Safety is a major focus of Holden's presentation for the new car. The list of standard safety items includes electronic stability control, traction control, ABS brakes, brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution and six-airbags.
Initially Holden will offer two models: the CD and CDX. The CD is equipped with 16-inch steel wheels, six-speaker audio system with MP3-player compatibility, air-conditioning, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, cruise control, trip computer, power windows and automatic headlights.
The CDX retains all those features but adds 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, leather steering wheel and seats, heated front seats and rear park assist.
One major detail Holden didn't release today is the fuel economy figures for both engine options. Consumption ratings, along with full specifications and pricing, will be revealed closer to the car's launch date.
Also read our 2009 Melbourne motor show overview here