Road test - Chevrolet Cruze

Author: Ian Strachan

The new Chevrolet Cruze is a fairly conservatively styled family saloon which is unlikely to turn heads. Unless, of course, you’re watching the British Touring Car championships in which the Cruze is certainly attracting attention.

That said, there is one thing about the Cruze which makes it stand out from the crowd: its price. This car starts at just £11,545 which makes it one of the bargains of its sector.

The Cruze is undoubtedly a good looking car, if a little unexciting. However, its styling is smooth and flowing, making it look bigger than it actually is. 

I test drove the two-litre 150 horsepower diesel powered LT in the brightest red paint finish you'll ever see. This car comes at £15,195 on the road - still great value.

The front grille carries the Chevrolet "bowtie" logo, with big, wraparound headlights while the rear end is high, chunky and purposeful, set off by smart chrome trim. A set of very nice looking 17 inch alloys completes the look.

Inside, the car feels substantial, with a well laid out dashboard and neat silver trimmed-dials. Despite its price, there has been no skimping on trim materials, with full leather seats and steering wheel and soft touch plastic. Controls are easily accessible and there is a wealth of storage space which includes central cup holders, cubby box, facia top storage and wide door bins.

Interior room is very good. There's more than adequate leg and room and the seats are exceptionally comfortable and supportive.

My test car was powered by Chevrolet's 2.0 litre VCDi common-rail diesel engine which is taught, low revving and uncomplicated, delivering power when you need it, coupled to a five speed manual transmission. Because it is so low revving - and therefore economical - the gearbox is fairly unforgiving. If you're not in the right gear you'll lose power dramatically.

Despite the Cruze being quite a big car you can get an impressive 50.4 mpg in mixed driving. 

Suspension is firm without being uncomfortable and handling is crisp and sure-footed with confident cornering.

Load space is impressive, with 450 litres of space. Carrying capacity can be made even bigger with the split rear seats folded down.

Specification on the LT trim level is good, with electronic climate control, parking sensors, rain sensitive wipers, CD player with MP3 compatibility and cruise control as standard. My test car was fitted with a satellite navigation system at an extra £750.

This is a nicely put together car which offers superb value for money. Even the higher trim level with all the bells and whistles is still very competitive.