Chevrolet's replacement for the Cobalt is a quantum leap forward for the bow-tie badge, and it shows. The Cruze was one of the top selling cars in the states last year, and looking at it, it's not hard to see why. For one thing, it's a very handsome car. For another, it's big for a C segment car. Plus, with starting features like OnStar, Satellite Radio, power locks, windows, auxilliary input, and a fairly spacious interior, it's well appointed for $16k.
What's more, the average consumer has a choice of engines. Standard is a 1.8 liter I-4 good for 138 horsepower and 123 ft/lbs of torque. However, on all but the LS (low end) trim, a 1.4 Turbo I-4 is good for the same horsepower, but 148 ft/lbs of torque. Turbos aren't normally standard fo American cars, but the execution is well done. There's little turbo lag, and power comes smoothly.
The interior is quite nice as well.
With a mix of soft and hard touch plastics (or, optional GASP! leather!) and intuitive, ergonomic controls, the cabin is a nice place to be.
The car handles well too. Steering is nicely weighted and precise, and the car feels planted at all speeds. The suspension strikes a nice balance between firm and comfortable. The transmission is responsive even with a manumatic.
In many cases, this is one of the best American C-segment cars out there. It's roomy, well appointed, handsome, and moderately priced for its segment.
So why did it finish second?
For starters, get up into the high level LTZ trim and this baby will cost you more than $25,000 without incentives. Granted, you can get the turbo 1.4 liter engine without going there, and other nice features, but as a high water mark that's way up there.
Another problem is weight. Yes, there's the stereotype that Americans are overweight, and this car doesn't do much to dispel that notion. That extra space and room comes with extra weight, and even the high output 1.4 liter turbo doesn't do much to compensate for it.
Overall, it's a great domestic showing, but sadly for the bow-tie, there's a one other candidate that can steal the crown.
Driver's Pick: the 1LT or 2LT. Don't bother with the LTZ unless you love this car and want leather. Avoid the 1.8.
I agree with everything fox has said here. The cruze offers a rich driving experience, and the models with manual shifters do get from what I've heard superb gas milage. The handling on the car as well is just outstanding. Just to give an idea, I've taken it round a hair pin rated for 15mph, at around 40, with little to no wheel spin, and the car gave me full confidance that I could push it even harder, without consequence. The only real downside is the power. In chousing to go green with this car, chevy has axed its performance... sure the 1.4l t4 will get you up to speed in a decent amount of time, but not much else... it really needs a 2.0l i4 or a 2.0l turbo...
ReplyDeleteAlso, don't listen to him... the LTZ model is amazing! (Probably not worth the price tag, with the power issue I just mentioned, but amazingly comfortable nonetheless) :p