Chevrolet Cruze

The Cruze possesses big-car qualities, such as a comfortable ride and a quiet interior. The standard engine is an unobtrusive 1.4-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. A smooth stop/start feature reduces fuel use during idling; we got 30 mpg overall in our tests. The diesel model returned an impressive 41 mpg overall and an outstanding 60 mpg on the highway. The infotainment system features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which mirror some smartphone icons on the screen. The rear seat is relatively roomy for the class, but the front seats are short on lower back support. A variety of advanced active safety features are available, but only on the top-trim Premier version. The Cruze is being phased out in early 2019.

In 2011 the Cruze replaced, and greatly improved on, the unimpressive Cobalt as Chevrolet's mainstream small car. It feels solid and substantial, handles nicely, and has a firm but steady and controlled ride. Two four-cylinder engines are offered: a base 1.8-liter and an up-level turbocharged 1.4-liter. The latter has the edge in power delivery and quietness. Both, however, delivered a rather unimpressive 26 mpg. Noise levels are moderate, which is fairly good for this class. The well-finished cabin feels spacious up front, even for tall drivers, but it's cramped in the rear.

In 2011, the Cruze replaced, and greatly improved upon, the unimpressive Cobalt as Chevrolet's mainstream small car. In addition to offering handsome styling, it feels solid and substantial, handles nicely, and has a firm but steady and controlled ride. Two four-cylinder engines are offered: a base 1.8-liter and an up-level turbocharged 1.4-liter. The latter has the edge in power delivery and quietness. Both, however, delivered a rather unimpressive 26 mpg. Noise levels are moderate, which is fairly good for this class. The well-finished cabin feels spacious up front, even for tall drivers, but it's cramped in the rear.