2012 Chevrolet Cruze LTZ 1.4 turbo from North America
Summary:
Good Chevy (Opel) product in the U.S.
Faults:
Nothing went wrong during the 500 mile rental duration.
General Comments:
Miles ahead of previous GM small cars (Cavalier, Cobalt).
Although the engine is turbo charged, don't expect NHRA top-fuel 1/4 mile times, as the 1.4L engine has such a small bore & stroke, torque is not substantial. However, due to the turbo, what power the engine does make is available from very low RPM to about 5000 RPM, making the car very good for average use.
Entry and exit at the driver's seat is a bit cramped. At just 5'8" tall, the seating position put my head right next to the door jamb (B-pillar), causing a substantial blind spot and producing a bit of claustrophobia... and serious concerns the side air bag would keep my head from cracking against the door jamb in the unlikely event of a side impact.
Got 35-37 MPG during 500 miles of mostly 70-80 mph highway driving. The ride was adequately smooth and fairly quiet for a small car.
Expensive wheel/tire set-up on the LTZ and low profile tires increase the chances of rim damage.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 16th March, 2013
16th Nov 2012, 22:05
I thought the Cruze was supposed to be such a great car. Sounds a lot like an Impala. Boring, and uninspired.