Chevrolet comes to market with an all new subcompact car for 2011. Called the Cruze, it replaces the Cobalt in the bow tie brand’s lineup and competes with vehicles like the Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Jette.

The Cruze is the first “global” car from General Motors and is already on sale in more than 130 countries world wide. It goes on sale in late September of 2010 and is available only as a front-drive, five-passenger sedan.

With prices ranging from $16,995 to $22,695, Cruze will initially be offered in LS, 1LT, 2LT, and top-line LTZ trim. Chevrolet plans to add an ECO model in late November that it hopes will carry a, EPA highway rating of 40 mpg. Also available is an RS package on LT and LTZ models that adds unique front and rear facias, rocker moldings, front fog lights, and a rear spoiler.

With Cruze’s impressive list of standard safety features, upscale interior and reasonable base price, there’s no reason for compact-car buyers to shy away from the bow-tie brand any more. Best bet is probably a 2LT at just about $20,000, however the LTZ appeals to the enthusiast with its upgraded brakes, larger wheels and tires and sport suspension.

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