SEMA plays host to some incredible, full-on concept cars every year, but Chevrolet has decided to keep its offerings low-key. It'll be taking on the world's biggest aftermarket trade show with two Blue Line Concepts, warmed-over versions of the Malibu and Cruze kitted out with a set of parts from Chevrolet's own catalogue of visual and performance upgrades.
Cruze RS Blue Line
The first Blue Line set for SEMA is based on the Cruze RS, which means it's powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 153 hp (114 kW) of power and 240 Nm (177 lb.ft) of torque. It's not exactly a firecracker, then, although Chevrolet has added a performance air intake and exhaust system to free things up a bit.
Bigger 11.8-inch (300-mm) vented brake discs up front work to stop the package, and a new suspension kit sits the car 0.4 in (10 mm) higher than stock.
On the outside, there's not much on hand to set the Blue Line Cruze apart from regular cars. If the name (or pictures) didn't give it away, the standard wheels have been finished in matte blue, and the windows have been finished in a special shade of blue.
Malibu Blue Line
The Malibu Blue Line follows exactly the same path as the Cruze. Under the hood, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder motor has been left unchanged at 250 hp (186 kW), with nary a bolt-on intake or exhaust kit in sight.
Chevy has sharpened the handling up with a suspension kit, which drops the ride by 0.4 inches (10 mm) for a sportier stance, but the real focus is on the exterior here.
Along with matte-blue 18-inch wheels, there's a new rear diffuser and spoiler, darker grille inserts and smokier lights. The windows have been given the same blue tint as the Cruze, too, and there are blacked out badges on the front and rear bumper.
SEMA will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center between November 1 and 4 this year.
Source: Chevrolet
