Cole Krum Chevrolet

The Chevrolet Cruze is named a TOP SAFETY PICK 2011 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).  It is, in fact, one of 10 new cars that earned such accolades in the Small Car category.

General Motors has made safety a priority for the 2011 Chevrolet Cruz (which replaced the Chevrolet Cobalt) and frequently mentions the car's 10 standard air bags and electronic safety features (i.e., Turn-by-Turn Navigation standard for the first six months and available Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist) in its commercials.

Reflecting on the TOP SAFETY PICK 2011 in a written statement, IIHS President, Adrian…

Chevrolet had a surprising announcement, as the auto maker is saying goodbye a nameplate, but not a model. General Motors expects to replace its subcompact Chevrolet Aveo with the newly named Chevrolet Sonic.

The new title was first features in the GM Inside News blog. The Detroit Free Press said the new car "will be built at GM's Orion Township plant starting Aug. 1. Like the Cruze, the Sonic will be a global name."

GM trademarked the name Chevrolet Sonic on Oct. 5, according to their trademark records. Both The Free Press and GM Inside News said various GM…