Chevrolet Cruze Lives On In South America, Gets Facelifted For 2020MY

While in the United States the final Chevrolet Cruze was built on March 6 this year at Lordstown Assembly, GM continues to invest in the compact car in South America.

The region’s biggest markets, Brazil and Argentina, have finally received the mid-cycle refresh that debuted in North America for the 2019 model year — only to be abruptly discontinued shortly after.

As with the North American model, South America’s facelifted Cruze gains an updated exterior featuring a new grille, LED taillights, and new wheel designs. Inside, the range-topping Cruze Premier receives a new dual-tone interior color combination and improved materials.

Speaking of the Cruze Premier, it’s the first time this trim is applied to a Chevrolet car in South America, having so far only been used on SUVs there. Replacing the LTZ, the Cruze Premier is the new range-topping model.

Also Read: GM’s Decision To Kill The Cruze In North America Is Quite Puzzling

It introduces tech features such as an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot which allows the simultaneous connection of up to seven mobile device, wireless charging, and third-generation Chevrolet infotainment system with an 8-inch color touchscreen.

Furthermore, the suite of active safety systems is enhanced with the addition of automatic braking and pedestrian detection. The 2020MY Cruze carries on with the same 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine rated at 153 hp (155 PS) and 177 lb-ft (240 Nm) of torque. It’s mated to a standard six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.

The facelifted Chevrolet Cruze for the South American market will be built at GM’s Rosario plant in Argentina. Available in sedan or hatchback body styles, the model will arrive in Brazilian and Argentine dealerships in September 2019, followed by other markets in the region in the fourth quarter of the year.