The Chevrolet Cruze is probably the automotive star of the year. The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada named it Car of the Year, and it’s been earning awards left and right around the world. I have to admit that I too was quite smitten by the Cruze the first time I hopped behind the wheel.
But after a week spent in its company, I realized it’s not all sunshine and roses. Nothing major, mind you, or anything that’ll prevent the Cruze from basking in the acclaim of its followers, but rather minor faults that became slightly irritating after driving the wife and kids around all week.
A question of style
Style-wise, the Chevrolet Cruze is a success. Rather conservative, it still comes off distinctly more contemporary than the outgoing model. The large grille and confident belt line create a more solid stance.
But the Cruze really stands out on the road, where it displays undeniable grace.
The cabin is absolutely top notch. The dash and its styling cues are well thought-out, fit and finish are beyond reproach and the controls are relatively easy to use.
Life on board is made sweeter by a series of features, standard and optional, that define this new breed of sedan. The traditional steering wheel stereo controls are obviously accounted for, as is Bluetooth and a high-quality sound system.
An on-board computer provides all the useful info you need, including fuel-efficiency data and various comfort-related intel. Lastly, no self-respecting Chevy would be caught dead without the OnStar system that does, however, require an extra subscription, as is custom.
The only real flaw of this cabin is the seats, which aren’t as comfortable as you’d expect. The lumbar support isn’t great and is, in fact, only partially supportive. On the other hand, your passengers don’t have to worry about this problem and can fully enjoy their own perches as well as the vast available head- and legroom.
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| The Chevrolet Cruze is probably the automotive star of the year. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
But after a week spent in its company, I realized it’s not all sunshine and roses. Nothing major, mind you, or anything that’ll prevent the Cruze from basking in the acclaim of its followers, but rather minor faults that became slightly irritating after driving the wife and kids around all week.
A question of style
Style-wise, the Chevrolet Cruze is a success. Rather conservative, it still comes off distinctly more contemporary than the outgoing model. The large grille and confident belt line create a more solid stance.
But the Cruze really stands out on the road, where it displays undeniable grace.
The cabin is absolutely top notch. The dash and its styling cues are well thought-out, fit and finish are beyond reproach and the controls are relatively easy to use.
Life on board is made sweeter by a series of features, standard and optional, that define this new breed of sedan. The traditional steering wheel stereo controls are obviously accounted for, as is Bluetooth and a high-quality sound system.
An on-board computer provides all the useful info you need, including fuel-efficiency data and various comfort-related intel. Lastly, no self-respecting Chevy would be caught dead without the OnStar system that does, however, require an extra subscription, as is custom.
The only real flaw of this cabin is the seats, which aren’t as comfortable as you’d expect. The lumbar support isn’t great and is, in fact, only partially supportive. On the other hand, your passengers don’t have to worry about this problem and can fully enjoy their own perches as well as the vast available head- and legroom.
 |
| An on-board computer provides all the useful info you need, including fuel-efficiency data and various comfort-related intel. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |