The Cruze, GM’s world car

Eleven plants, 118 countries, 88 awards and now Chevrolet has announced it has sold three million of the compact Cruze.

The best-selling Chevrolet model crossed the milestone in August just 16 months after selling its two millionth model.

From the U.S. and Canada, to Laos and the Philippines, to Lebanon and Qatar, the Cruze has proved itself a global player among small cars.

Since launching in 2008, GM boasts the Cruze has collected 39 product awards in China, 27 in the U.S. and 12 in Brazil, and others.

Chevrolet is committed to building product in – or near – the markets where they are sold. So far, GM builds the Cruze 11 different countries on five continents and sells them in 118 countries.

To appeal to the different markets tastes, the Cruze is available in in three body styles, including a four-door sedan, five-door hatchback and station wagon.

Five different engines, 1.4-, 1.6-, and 1.8-litre gasoline engines, and 1.7- and 2.0-litre diesel engines power the compact.

Chevrolet recently launched a new version of the Cruze catering to the styling and packaging demands of Chinese customers.

Cruze sales in China lead all countries with 1.13 million sold since launch in 2009.