(June 4, 2010) The all-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will begin arriving in U.S. dealerships this September, starting at $16,995, including destination. Priced to compete in the compact-car segment, the Cruze offers more interior room, more miles per gallon in the Eco model, and more standard safety features than any of its competitors.

The Cruze starting price is several hundred dollars more than its targeted import competitors. 

GM wants the Cruze to take on the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. The 2010 Civic starts at $16,405, and the Corolla starts at $16,200. Both prices include shipping.

“While some of our competitors may have a lower starting price, Cruze wins on value once these competitors are optioned up,” Chevrolet marketing chief Jim Campbell said today in a statement

For instance, a manual-transmission base model Civic comes with six air bags and lacks standard air conditioning, power locks and keyless entry. The base Cruze LS with a six-speed manual transmission comes with those features, along with 10 air bags.

“We believe the Cruze can redefine the expectations for compact-car owners and shoppers who are new to the segment,” Campbell said. “For the price of a compact car, Cruze offers the styling, safety features, roominess, amenities, and refinement of a much more expensive car.”