There's a lot of hype surrounding the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid. And, why shouldn't there be? It was, after all the first plug-in hybrid ever to hit markets. That said. Consumer interest and hoards of attention from the media aren't exactly translating into the most impressive sales numbers.

Chevy isn't all that surprised.  After all, the technology is still new. And, the starting price of the venerable Volt plug-in hybrid  is over 10-grand higher than say the gasoline-powered Cruze, which is a little more within the box, as far as autos are concerned.

The American automaker isn't worried, either. Rather, they trust drivers will turn to the "Green" side as they become more comfortable with the Volt's laundry list of long-term advantages. And, in the mean time, they'll enjoy the boost the Chevy Volt seems to be giving Cruze sales.

"The [Chevy] Volt is leading to a lot of Cruze sales," explains Mark Reuss, CEO, General Motors North America. "[Customers] went to see the Volt, but not everyone can buy the Volt."¹

Reuss also reveals Chevy will share their advanced plug-in hybrid technology with sister company Cadillac, this year. While there are no plans to stop production of the Volt, GM is extremely confident, luxury buyers will be more comfortable with a starting M.S.R.P. of over $30,000.

Which is the right reliable, fuel-efficient option for you? Ultimately, that is something only you can decide. It is, however, important to make an educated decision. To help, we've included a brief at a glance for both vehicles below.

2012 Chevrolet Volt At a Glance

- Fuel Economy (Electric Mode): Up to 95 mpg city/93 mpg highway
- Fuel Economy (Gas Mode): Up to 35 mpg city (gas)/40 mpg highway
-  Standard touch-sensitive center controls
- Bluetooth
- SiriusXM satellite radio with three months of complementary service
- XM Nav Traffic with three months of complementary service
- Keyless entry
- Remote vehicle starter
- Pedestrian-friendly alert
- Tire inflator kit
- Warranties: Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty (3 years/ 36,000 miles), Powertrain/Drivetrain Limited Warranty (5 years/100,000 miles), Rust Warranty (6 years/100,000 miles), Battery and Voltec Component Limited Warranty (8 years/100,000 miles)

2012 Chevrolet Cruze At a Glance

- Fuel Economy: Up to 28 mpg city/42 mpg highway
- Trims Available: LS, 1LT, 2LT, LTZ, Eco
- Horsepower: 138 hp
- 10 Standard airbags
- Tire-pressure monitoring system
- Traction control and electronic stability control
-  Onstar with six-months of complimentary service
- SiriusXM satellite radio with three months of complementary service
- Warranties: Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty (3 years/ 36,000 miles), Powertrain/Drivetrain Limited Warranty (5 years/100,000 miles), Rust Warranty (6 years/100,000 miles)
For complete specs and to arrange a test drive, please contact Felix Chevrolet today, or visit us in person at 3330 S Figueroa Street in Los Angeles, CA.

Source: ¹http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2011/10/chevrolet-volts-magic-rubs-off-on-sales-of-cheaper-cruze/1