Diesel Cruze gets rave reviews

Pardon us if we’re not the least bit surprised that the Lordstown- produced Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel has become the darling of many U.S. auto analysts.

As the 2014 model of the fuel-efficient compact car begins its rollout to dealers across the country this month, auto analysts are revved up about the car. Here’s a sampling of the buzz:

“The fuel economy is stellar” said Jack Nerad, executive editor of Kelley Blue Book.

The diesel Cruze’s “efficiency is pretty much unrivaled, and it’s got far more power than a Toyota Prius hybrid that might come close to its highway rating in real-world use,’’ wrote John Voelcker of Car Connection.

We expect to hear more kudos of the diesel Cruze as General Motors ramps up its rollout to all markets by fall. We also expect great success in sales of the pioneering vehicle — the first passenger car with a diesel engine produced by GM in 28 years. And why shouldn’t we? It will be constructed by the same talented team of 4,500 workers that has placed the gasoline Cruze among the hottest selling cars in the nation.

It’s yet one more sign of GM’s robust recovery and of the Valley’s vital contribution to it.