(June 15, 2011) DETROIT — For 2012, Chevrolet Cruze models with the 1.4-liter turbo and six-speed automatic transmission will get two mpg better fuel economy. The Cruze Eco with an automatic transmission will deliver as much as 39 mpg on the highway compared with 37 mpg for the current model, Chevrolet said Wednesday.

The most popular 1.4-liter turbo/six-speed automatic will get 38 mpg compared with 36 mpg for the current model. A lower axle ratio for the 2012 models enables the approximately 5 percent increase in highway fuel efficiency for Cruze.

Cruze Eco with the standard six-speed manual transmission remains the most fuel-efficient gas-powered/non-hybrid vehicle in America, with an EPA-rated 42 mpg on the highway.

“Chevrolet is committed to responding to what customers want and making it easier for them,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing.

Cruze, which was the best-selling small car in the United States in May, is Chevrolet’s best-selling nameplate around the world, with global sales of more than 250,000 in the first four months of 2011.