That's 'Cruze' with a 'Z', by the way. Replacing the Cobalt, which replaced the Cavalier, this new compact sedan from Chevrolet will soon launch as a 2011 model. Among many other things, the American automaker hopes the Cruze’s top-notch powertrain, safety, warranty and value equation will be the automotive equivalent of a hand-grenade tossed into its competitive set-- which includes the Mazda 3, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Notice how Honda and Toyota gradually up-sized their Corolla and Civic over several generations to make room for the smaller Echo and Fit, respectively? GM’s pulled a similar stunt with the Cruze. Inflated to clear the way for even smaller upcoming offerings like the Aveo and Spark and Beat twins, the so-called ‘compact’ Cruze doesn’t feel very compact at all. In fact, it’s almost as big as a two-generations ago Chevy Malibu. Getting in and out is handled much like a larger car, and there's a pleasantly generous amount of space for four adult occupants.
Cruze’s cabin execution will be critical to impress new test-drivers, and it largely looks like designers have things taken care of. There’s plenty of hard plastic, though soft-touch materials like cloth fabric or vinyl faux-leather line the doors and dash for an added premium feel. Contrasting textures, chrome trim, satin plastic touch points and even a nice leather-wrapped steering wheel dial things up a notch or two as well, depending on the trim level. Good visibility, relatively easy-to-use controls and above-adequate at-hand storage facilities round out the package.
The gauges, steering wheel and centre console call models like the Malibu and Equinox to mind, too. In all, Cruze’s cockpit treatment isn’t mind-blowingly better than its closest competitors, though test-drivers checking out the market should feel they're in something more expensive than they actually are.
The ride has a similar effect. Cruze's suspension does an exceptional job of absorbing and deflecting road noise and harshness, letting only solid, heavy thunks and the pitter-pattering of tires to enter the cabin. There's no sign of the flimsy, rough, low-budget suspension feel apparent on some similarly-priced models, and Cruze’s ride quality could stand shoulder to shoulder with many cars worth twice its price. Nice job here indeed.
Ditto the steering and handling. Drivers can direct the Cruze into and out of corners with minimal fuss, and a quick steering ratio and light effort make things feel refreshingly sporty and willing to please. It’s pleasantly agile on twisty roads without feeling nervous on the highway-- though many will find the Mazda3 feels even sharper and more lively.
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| Cruze is priced from under $15,000, and hits dealer lots later this month. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
Notice how Honda and Toyota gradually up-sized their Corolla and Civic over several generations to make room for the smaller Echo and Fit, respectively? GM’s pulled a similar stunt with the Cruze. Inflated to clear the way for even smaller upcoming offerings like the Aveo and Spark and Beat twins, the so-called ‘compact’ Cruze doesn’t feel very compact at all. In fact, it’s almost as big as a two-generations ago Chevy Malibu. Getting in and out is handled much like a larger car, and there's a pleasantly generous amount of space for four adult occupants.
Cruze’s cabin execution will be critical to impress new test-drivers, and it largely looks like designers have things taken care of. There’s plenty of hard plastic, though soft-touch materials like cloth fabric or vinyl faux-leather line the doors and dash for an added premium feel. Contrasting textures, chrome trim, satin plastic touch points and even a nice leather-wrapped steering wheel dial things up a notch or two as well, depending on the trim level. Good visibility, relatively easy-to-use controls and above-adequate at-hand storage facilities round out the package.
The gauges, steering wheel and centre console call models like the Malibu and Equinox to mind, too. In all, Cruze’s cockpit treatment isn’t mind-blowingly better than its closest competitors, though test-drivers checking out the market should feel they're in something more expensive than they actually are.
The ride has a similar effect. Cruze's suspension does an exceptional job of absorbing and deflecting road noise and harshness, letting only solid, heavy thunks and the pitter-pattering of tires to enter the cabin. There's no sign of the flimsy, rough, low-budget suspension feel apparent on some similarly-priced models, and Cruze’s ride quality could stand shoulder to shoulder with many cars worth twice its price. Nice job here indeed.
Ditto the steering and handling. Drivers can direct the Cruze into and out of corners with minimal fuss, and a quick steering ratio and light effort make things feel refreshingly sporty and willing to please. It’s pleasantly agile on twisty roads without feeling nervous on the highway-- though many will find the Mazda3 feels even sharper and more lively.
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| The gauges, steering wheel and centre console call models like the Malibu and Equinox to mind. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |