Chevy Cruze, Volt Safe From Budget Cuts

GM had been rumored to have delayed the Cruze; however, it is on GM's updated product schedule released Friday. In 2010, GM also said it will introduce not only the Cruze and Volt, but also the Cadillac CTS Coupe as well as the Saab 9-4X and the Saab 9-5 sedan and wagon.

That is, if GM survives what it expects to be a dismal 2009. The automaker reported a $4.2-billion loss in the third quarter and said it had burned through $6.9 billion in cash in the third quarter. The automaker said by year-end 2008 it will be operating at "minimal liquidity levels" — levels that it expects to fall even further in next year's first half.

GM announced to employees Friday morning that it will cut more jobs — another 10 percent on top of the 20 percent announced in July — slash capital spending; eliminate raises, bonuses, matching dollars in savings programs and tuition reimbursement; and extend the life of some models without redesign or replacement, while saving key product and technology programs like those outlined.

Inside Line says: A Chevy Cruze, a Chevy Volt, a Cadillac CTS Coupe and new Saabs in 2010 — if GM survives until then. — Michelle Krebs, Editor, Edmunds' AutoObserver.com