New Chevy Cruze gets bigger and roomier with more power

DETROIT (AP) — Five years ago, General Motors revealed an all-new compact car in the U.S. that was designed to enter a market that GM ignored for decades.

Noisy, underpowered engine, cramped back seat even for kids and bland looks.

Chevrolet says the new Cruze is more aerodynamic looking, and longer, yet 250 pounds lighter.

A standard new turbocharged motor is more powerful, quieter and more efficient.

[...] GM knows that someday gas prices will go back up and the market will shift.

Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system is standard with 7-inch touch screen that's compatible with Apple CarPlay and Google's Android Auto.

Lighter high-strength steel and use of aluminum, plus a lighter aluminum-block engine, helped the car shed up to 250 pounds.

Six-speed manual is standard and a new six-speed automatic is available.

GM says the lower weight, stop-start technology that halts the engine at red lights, and a more efficient engine will get the regular Cruze above 40 mpg on the highway.