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Shanghai GM debuts Trax and redesigned Cruze in Beijing

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Shanghai GM, General Motors' joint-venture partner in China, has officially unveiled a pair of new entries for Chevrolet in the People's Republic. First up is the Trax, a vehicle that is also set to arrive in the American market.

The Trax appears largely unchanged for China, following the theme set by the USDM model, which in turn was plucked from other markets around the globe. Based largely on the Buick Encore/Opel Mokka, the CDM variant offers the same 1.4-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder found around the globe. All-wheel drive and Chevrolet's MyLink system are available, just like on Trax models sold in Canada and other world markets.

The Cruze is the bigger news. While we're set to receive a lightly refreshed model here in the US, the Chinese market is getting something more extensive. Images of the new fascia were first seen a few weeks back, giving us our first indication that there'd be a separation between the US and China. The CDM Cruze draws inspiration from the Tru 140S Concept, shown a few years ago in Detroit. That accounts for the Dodge Dart-like headlights and more aggressive lines, which Shanghai GM calls "coupe-like."

Two engines will be available when the Cruze launches in China, both of which come from GM's latest family of Ecotec mills. A 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 1.4-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged four-cylinder provide motivation, while the Chinese market will have a choice of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a six-speed automatic.

We're a bit short on images of the CDM Cruze and Trax, although once more pics become available, we'll be sure to update this gallery. Until then, scroll down up and have a look. You can also take a peek at the official press release, below.
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Shanghai GM Launches Trax and Introduces New Cruze at Chevrolet Night in Beijing

BEIJING – Shanghai GM this evening launched the Chevrolet Trax, its new urban SUV, and hosted the world premiere of the new-generation Chevrolet Cruze at Chevrolet Night in Beijing. The two products are among the 11 Chevrolet models that will be on display at Auto China 2014, which opens tomorrow.

Chevrolet Trax

The Trax urban SUV has a dynamic, muscular exterior with large, 18-inch wheels. Its flexible interior has 25 storage spaces and can carry up to 1,372 liters of cargo. Powering the Trax is a 1.4L turbocharged engine that is mated with a new six-speed automated manual transmission. The Trax generates maximum output of 103 kW and 200 Nm, while achieving fuel economy of 6.9 L/100 km.

The Trax comes with the intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which enables it to effectively take on slippery and bumpy roads. The Trax received a five-star safety rating in Euro NCAP testing. It benefits from eight major safety systems, including Electronic Stability Control, Curve Braking Control and Rollover Mitigation.

To meet the demands of younger customers, the Trax comes with the latest Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system. Its 7-inch full-color touch screen supports a number of user-friendly functions such as eyes-free integration, multimedia entertainment and navigation.

The Trax will be available in China at a price of RMB 119,900 - 159,900. Taiwanese actor Kai Ko and actress Amber Kuo will serve as ambassadors for the Trax across China.

New-Generation Chevrolet Cruze

The much-anticipated new-generation Chevrolet Cruze represents GM's newest entry in the midsize compact car segment. It was developed by GM's global R&D team, which gave the Cruze a new clean-sheet design and brand-new architecture. The team's goal was to set new benchmarks in the segment for fuel economy, handling and intelligent technology.

The new Cruze offers the first expression of Chevrolet's next-generation design language characterized by the slogan "Design with a Heartbeat." Developed with a focus on efficiency and inspired by the Chevrolet Tru Concept, which appeared at Auto China 2012, it features coupe-like flowing lines that support enhanced aerodynamics. A compact body, wheels pushed out to the corners of the car, shorter front and rear overhangs, and a roofline that stretches to the rear make for a spacious interior. A dual-mesh grille extends to the sleek headlights to create a more dynamic visual effect. Chrome-plated trim stretches from the outside rearview mirrors to the rear seat windows, conveying a rhythmic refinement.

The new Cruze is the first model featuring the new-generation Ecotec small-displacement engine co-developed by GM and SAIC. It is available with a choice of the segment's first 1.4L mid-mounted direct injection turbocharged engine or the first 1.5L mid-mounted naturally aspirated engine. The new Cruze is also offered with the all-new DCG seven-speed dual-clutch transmission co-developed by GM and SAIC, an all-new six-speed manual transmission developed in Europe, and the third-generation S6 six-speed automated manual transmission. The powertrains provide best-in-class fuel economy, ride comfort, emissions and quiet performance. The new Cruze is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of 14-21 percent compared with its predecessor.

Chevrolet Transformers 4 Stars

Three Chevrolet vehicles that will star in this summer's blockbuster Transformers 4 – the Camaro TF4 Concept, Corvette Stingray and Trax – will make their grand debut at Auto China 2014. A 3.3-meter-tall android that transformed itself from the Trax and a 2.0-meter-tall Camaro robot will show visitors the magic of the movie. The Trax is joining the autobot team for the first time in the fourth installment of the popular Transformers franchise.

In the movie, the Corvette Stingray will transform into a partner of Optimus Prime to lead the autobots onto the battlefield. In reality, the Stingray is the seventh generation of the Corvette, which was originally launched in 1953. Its newly designed 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine boasts maximum output of 338 kW and 635 Nm, resulting in 0-100 km/h acceleration time of only 4 seconds. In addition to a refreshed exterior and interior, the Stingray features a new body structure, chassis and powertrain, as well as other innovative technologies.

The Camaro TF4 Concept has a handsome exterior, with a futuristic-looking front end and body. It has special paint and improved aerodynamic pockets that forge a strong combination of sport and science.
General Motors traces its roots back to 1908. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 58,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. Passenger cars and commercial vehicles are sold under the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. In 2013, GM sold nearly 3.2 million vehicles in China. More information on General Motors in China can be found at GM Media Online.

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