GM Recalling 2,100 Chevrolet Cruze sedans after Steering Wheel Comes Loose in one Car

Following a single incident on March 1, 2011, when a GM was notified of a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze that had been brought to one of its dealerships with a steering wheel that had come loose from the steering column, the Detroit automaker decided to issue a voluntary recall on certain Cruze vehicles. According to GM, during manufacturing, the steering wheel might have been improperly fastened and could detach from the steering column.

In a filing to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration, General Motors noted that the affected assembly plant help shipment of 2,021 Cruze vehicles until they were inspected for the potential default, adding that the inspection found no additional problems with the steering wheels on these cars. The company also issued a notice to dealers to inspect all unsold vehicles prior to sale. GM said that no additional steering wheel fastener abnormalities have been found to date.

As a precautionary measure, the company will recall a total of 2,100 Chevrolet Cruze sedans from the 2011MY to inspect the steering wheel. The safety recall is expected to begin in April. Concerned owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, or at the owner center

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback: Production Model to Debut at Geneva Motor Show

Chevrolet today announced that the production version of the Cruze hatchback will make its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Considered to be a critical model for Chevrolet in Europe, the 5-door Cruze was first teased at last year�s Paris Motor Show with a pre-production study.

�Hatchbacks play a critical role in many markets. The total compact segment in Europe represents over a quarter of the total market, with hatchbacks representing around 65% of that volume�, said Wayne Brannon, president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe. �The new Cruze hatchback cements that Chevrolet's claim for a place among the mainstream brands in Europe, and it's a vehicle that will bring new levels of value against some of the more established competition�.

With its sweeping lines, short overhangs and, in our opinion, better looking rear quarter compared to the sedan, the hatchback is said to be �particularly well suited to European driver tastes�. To achieve this, it uses the same body-frame integral system (BFI) chassis complemented by some fine-tuning and the four-door model�s engine range, plus new additions, such as the Orlando MPV�s 163HP 2.0-liter diesel powerplant.

From a practical standpoint, the new model loses 50 liters of cargo space for a total of 400 liters, but the large liftgate and 60/40 split rear seating should compensate in terms of practicality.

The Cruze hatchback is due in Europe in mid 2011 and prices will be announced closer to the launch date. It will also be available as a Holden in Australia.