Now available in re-styled front and handsome spacious interior design, this is what ardent travelers/drivers of Chevy Cruze should be proud of.
It has been enhanced with infotainment and safety features, including Bluetooth streaming audio, a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring.
Sharp looks inside and out, top safety scores and capable handling are some of the 2013 Chevrolet Cruze’s primary advantages in the small car marketplace.
It’s also one of the most fuel-efficient small sedans you can buy, though this does depend on which model you choose. Base LS models come with a 136-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder, but most versions of the Cruze get a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine.
The 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is a small sedan offered in four trim levels: LS, Eco, LT and LTZ.
The LS includes 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, air-conditioning, a six-way (manual) adjustable driver seat, a 60/40-split rear seat, a trip computer, full power accessories, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, USB port and an auxiliary audio
The LT actually comprises 1LT and 2LT subsets. Compared to the LS, the 1LT comes with the turbocharged engine, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The same features in the Eco’s Driver Convenience package are also available for the 1LT.
The 2LT differentiates itself with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a six-way power driver seat, a 7-inch touchscreen display.
The Cruze LTZ adds 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, automatic climate control, premium interior trim and auto-dimming rearview mirror and rearview camera.
The front-wheel-drive Cruze LS is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4 that makes 138 hp and 125 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is optional on those trims and standard for the LTZ.
Cruze’s automatic transmission accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds, a slightly slower than average time for this class.
All 2013 Chevrolet Cruze models come with stability control, antilock brakes, full-length side curtain airbags, front knee airbags and front and rear side impact airbags as standard.
Some drivers might find the Cruze’s front seats a bit narrow, but they’re supportive and comfortable, and they offer plenty of adjustment. A low bottom cushion for the backseat diminishes comfort for longer-limbed riders, as it offers little thigh support.
The main issue, however, is the automatic transmission. Programmed for maximum fuel economy, it’s reluctant to downshift for quick acceleration and passing unless you really boot the throttle.
The only turn-off for Cruze is the mediocre seating comfort and six-speed automatic’s sleepy response, stru!
It’s available in various prices:
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 1.6 LS MT R215 400
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 1.8 LS MT R227 800
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 2.0 LS MT Diesel R265 300
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 2.0 LT AT Diesel R285 700
All pricing includes a standard 3-year/60 000km service plan.
Verdict:
1-10 (Diesel) 4
1-10 (Performance) 6
