Insurance Group: 14
MPG: 38.7
CO2: 169
0-62 Mph: 13.0 secs
BHP: 122 BHP
Range: 511 miles
PROS: The Cruze 1.6 LT Auto boasts a decent level of trim with its electric rear windows, steering-wheel mounted stereo controls and parking sensors. The looks of this version are sporty and handsome. It is priced reasonably and is generally a good purchase.
CONS: The petrol engine lacks the push and grunt of the diesel engine. Driving this version is not quite as engaging as its rivals the VW Golf hatchback and Skoda Octavia hatchback. The car needs to be revved up high for it to gain speed, a practice that is not fuel-efficient. Though the styling is generally alright, the rear end looks a little awkward.
The Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LT Auto affords 39 bhp more than the rival Ford Focus. Its performance is more than acceptable as it reaches 62 mph in 12.7s and has a torque of 113 lb-ft at 4200 producing 124 bhp at 6200 rpm. For a 1598cc, 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine, its top speed of 115mph is adequate. However the engine is quite feeble at low revs which translates to a noisy engine until it reaches cruising speed. The combined mpg is 38.1, which is far from class leading.
The Cruze 1.6 LT Auto hatch has a sportier feel. The steering is quite swift and the suspension is firm therefore body roll is not much of a problem. However, these do not translate on winding roads and the Cruze’s rear end seems to sway as you navigate corners. The rear shift-sensation is safe though. Refinement is only a problem at low speeds and visibility is not a consideration.
The cabin of the Cruze 1.6 LT is classy with its dished-style steering wheel reminiscent of the Corvette, fabric panelled dashboard and cowed dials. The seats are firm and highly adjustable. The driver’s seat is comfortable but there’s no clutch footrest. There seems to be a shortage of leg room in the back of the car, and although five adults can certainly be seated, the rear middle passenger would find it uncomfortable for long journeys.
The equipment level provided is favourable andt he LT trim is fitted with more as standard than its rivals. Standard fits are air conditioning, CD/stereo with auxiliary socket, electric windows, 16-inch alloy wheels, parking sensors, cruise control and leather steering wheel. Up for options are bigger alloy wheels, rain sensing wipers and automatic lights, sat nav, leather and heated seats.
The Chevrolet Cruze saloon has been tested by the Euro NCAP and has a perfect rating of 5. It is expected and assumed that the Cruze hatchback will get the same rating as the saloon as the hatchback version has safety features and kits similar to the saloon. This hatchback version has six airbags, traction control system, electronic stability control, electronic brake distribution and ABS. Security-wise the car is fitted with an alarm, immobilizer, and remote and central locking and locking wheel nuts.
The hatchback edition is certainly more versatile than the saloon, and the headroom for the rear passengers is 11mm higher. The allotted space for the boot is 413 litres which expands to 883 litres once the 60/40 split rear seats are folded.
The affordable price of the Cruze and its warranty of 5 years are great incentives for younger buyers.
Priced at only £15,895, the Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LT Auto is very affordable, more so for first-time car owners. The Cruze is above par from rivals in terms of standard equipment and it undercuts its rival Ford Focus. The LT is the flagship version of the Cruze and it definitely looks better and sportier than the saloon version. However, the CO2 emission rating is higher at 174g/km. With a combined mpg of 38.1, this version is not that fuel-efficient. The diesel version is a better buy.
The Cruze 1.6 LT auto is under insurance group 14 and Road Tax Band H. Depreciation in the first year is high so don’t expect too much when reselling. The 2.0 litre diesel LT trim is a better buy if reselling is important.
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