Updated: July 11, 2011 10:40 AM | By Tom Krisher, The Associated Press, thecanadianpress.com

AP Sources: GM to sell diesel Chevy Cruze in US

In this undated photo provided by General Motors Co., the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, is shown. The Cruze, the most popular car in the U.S. last month, will come in a diesel version that could boost gas mileage to around 50 mpg, two people briefed on General Motors Co. product plans said Monday, July 11, 2011. (AP Photo/General Motors Co.)

DETROIT - Two people briefed on the matter say General Motors has decided to sell a diesel version of the Chevrolet Cruze car in the United States.

They say the car would get about 50 miles per gallon on the highway and help GM meet stricter government fuel economy standards.

One of the people says the diesel version is at least two years away from hitting U.S. showrooms. Neither person wanted to be identified because the company has not made an official announcement.

GM already sells a diesel version of the Cruze in Australia and is reworking the engine to meet U.S. emissions standards.

The people didn't know how much the diesel Cruze would cost. Company spokesman Tom Wilkinson would not comment.