Yes, ergo my still somewhat optimistic tone.
Go look at real life fuel economy figures from some old Jetti / Golf TDI owners.
50-60mpg freeway is what keeps them in love with these cars for 300k+ miles.
Mind you, I haven't driven a cruze, but I've heard good things about it's build quality, interior, ect. If it can match the Jetti TDI, for less money, I think it will be a hit.
EDIT: Hell even if it costs about the same, some GM Brand loyalist and "die hard americans" can at least get an economical diesel sedan without feeling like they are supporting the nazi's.