2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel debut at Chicago

The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel will start at $25,695 when it goes on sale in the US in May, this machine promises high mileage and clean emissions.

The compact bows with a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine that develops 148 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, allowing for a sprint to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds.

Standards includes 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-appointed seating, Aero Performance package and a rear spoiler.

Chevy expects the Cruze diesel to get an EPA highway fuel mileage rating of 42 mpg, matching the Jetta TDI.

"Chevrolet has a diverse portfolio of products and technologies to meet the needs of the most discerning customer, whether it's driving across town gas free in a Spark EV or cross-country in a clean turbo diesel," said Chris Perry, Chevrolet vice president of marketing.

The Cruze diesel is a bit heavier than the manual-transmission Cruze eco model, coming in at 3,475 pounds. Compared to the gas-powered Cruze, you also lose a couple cubic feet of rear cargo space thanks to a 17-liter diesel emission fluid tank.

The Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel is officially priced at $25,695; roughly $1,500 more than the base price of the Volkswagen Jetta TDI - its most direct competitor.

"There is some correlation between those who would drive a diesel truck and have a diesel car in the garage. We've picked a few markets that are key. But that will be the first month or two and then we'll roll out (nationwide)," said Cristi Landy, director of Chevrolet small car.

While the engine will be made in Germany, final assembly will take place in Lordstown, Ohio, where all American-market Cruzes are built.

Source: General Motors