2016 Chevrolet Cruze First Drive Review - Should you prefer a compact sedan that could be comfortable, fuel-efficient and filled up with tech features as with car Wi-Fi and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, the Cruze needs a strong look. The many latest safety features like blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision alert can be purchased, too.
In the event, you desire a smallish sedan that emphasizes sporty handling as well as a fun-to-drive nature, try the Mazda3 or Honda Civic. If you wish all-wheel drive for better traction in inclement weather, take a look at a Subaru Impreza.
What's New for 2016
All-new for 2016, the Chevrolet Cruze sedan is slightly larger yet lighter and much more efficient, having a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, plus terrific tech and safety features. This new Cruze ought not to be mistaken for the 2016 Cruze Limited, a carryover model which has since ceased production.
Driving Impressions
The most current Cruze carries on to do what it's always done best: supply a comfortable, quiet and composed ride. If you're hunting for a small sedan that drives much more like a..... midsize one, this Chevrolet is designed for you. Power coming from the standard 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine is average for this particular segment. It won't wow you using its acceleration, but it's hardly slow. Moreover, the tiny engine plays nicely using the 6-speed automatic transmission in which most buyers will opt. Chevy touts the Cruze as "athletic," but we'll leave that descriptor for any Mazda3. More apt for that Cruze is "comfortable." And then in a segment where a lot of players are attempting to dazzle with dynamics, we discover it refreshing to look for one that's actually just a very good highway cruiser.
Favorite Features
- 24/7 PROMISE
Odd name, awesome feature. In a very first for Chevy, all 2016 Cruze LT, and Premier models includes 24 months/24 gigs of 4G LTE Wi-Fi, 24 months of SiriusXM satellite radio, 24 months of OnStar guidance, two routine maintenance services, and five years/60,000 miles of roadside assistance.
HIGH FUEL-EFFICIENCY
Remember when 40 mpg was restricted to hybrids ? With today's small but efficient engines, that number is a reality for small sedans just like the 2016 Chevy Cruze. All models earn a minimum of 40 mpg/highway, topping out at 42 mpg. A new diesel Cruze will replace the prior one earned 46 mpg.
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Details
Interior
The Cruze's interior is a lot like its exterior within that it seems good without getting flashy. This is the sensible place by using a fair volume of the room and logically placed controls. Highlights will include a central-mounted touch-screen display and good old' knobs and buttons for audio and climate functions. We found both cloth and also the optional leather front seats comfortable but wish there had been adjustable lumbar support. Rear-seat legroom has exploded on the prior model, though trunk space has decreased a hair. The back seat folds for larger items, but you'll need to boost to the LT model for 60/40-split folding action.
Exterior
The new Cruze continues to grow two or three inches in size out of the outgoing model but sports a smaller, easy-to-park footprint. More noticeable may be the Cruze's new skin. The most recent model possesses a sleeker and swoopy shape, through an all-new face and sweeping headlights, along with a nicely buttoned-up rear with less-chunky taillights. Its roof is nicely tapered on the rear, and also the edges are certainly more interesting making use of their creases. We still deem the Cruze rather conservative, and that's hardly bad. We believe its lines holds up well during the many years to come.
Standard Equipment
For 2016, the Cruze will come in four main trims: L, LS, LT and Premier. The bargain-basement L, offered just with a manual transmission, is really basic but is equipped with a 7-inch MyLink infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, rearview camera, 6-way manual-adjust driver's seat, built-in 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi (subscription-based), plus a 4-speaker music system with AM/FM/USB and auxiliary inputs. LS models add extra bits much like nicer controls, floor mats, armrests, along with the accessibility to a computerized transmission. All Cruze models feature 10 airbags, 6-month trial to OnStar Guidance as well as 2 scheduled maintenance visits.
Optional Equipment
We recommend the Cruze LT. As well as offering a manual or automatic transmission, it packs more features yet maintains an easily affordable price. It provides the 24/7 Promise connectivity package, 6-speaker sound system, cruise control, 16-inch aluminum wheels, and steering-wheel-mounted audio and phone controls. Manual models even have the sporty RS appearance package. Top-line Premier models include leather seats, visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, 17-inch wheels, with an improved rear suspension that builds about the standard torsion beam. Options include Bose audio, sunroof, navigation, wireless phone charging, and safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and forward collision alert.
Under the Hood
All 2016 Cruze models include a new, turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine. With 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, it is actually stronger compared to previous 1.4-liter turbo, plus more efficient, too. Power is transferred to the leading wheels with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Though turbocharged, this little engine is delighted to drink regular unleaded gasoline. Next season, Chevy intends to go forth that has a diesel Cruze sedan that could be supposed to be a lot more efficient.
- 1.4-liter inline-4
- 177 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000-4,000 rpm
- EPA city/highway fuel economy: 29/41 mpg (manual), 30/42 mpg (automatic), 30/40 (automatic, Premier trim)
That has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Starting Price (MSRP) starting at $17,495, the Cruze undercuts rivals just like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Mazda3 and in some cases the Hyundai Elantra. Regarding the only main rival that starts less is definitely the Kia Forte , though basics Nissan Sentra and Dodge Dart are close. In fact, most buyers will decide on a better-equipped Cruze, and knowing that we recommend the Cruze LT, which rings set for under $21,000 using a manual transmission and much less than $22K having an automatic. Fully loaded, a Cruze Premier can reach beyond $29,000. Before you buy, look at the Fair Purchase Price to check out what others in your town are spending money on their new Cruze. The Chevy Cruze's resale value has traditionally trailed leaders such as Subaru Impreza, Honda Civic, and Toyota Corolla.
- To learn what customers are really purchasing this vehicle, first go with a style to view the Fair Purchase Price Calculate payments just for this vehicle
- To compare and contrast current market prices, look at 's car classifieds to examine the new and used Chevrolet Cruze vehicles for sale locally.
