Family cars are a fiercely competitive market, and Chevrolet has brought its new Cruze model in to fight it out with other manufacturers. There are two models to choose from, the saloon and the hatchback. Both have many interesting and distinctive features, not least the five-year warranty that Chevrolet provides for its vehicles.
Saloon
The Cruze Saloon LTZ 2.0 VCDi comes with two transmission choices, a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic with manual mode. Powered by the same 2.0-litre diesel engine, the manual has a slightly faster acceleration but the top speeds are almost the same, 127 mph for the manual and 129 mph for the dual option.
The manual version has much better fuel consumption, hitting an average of 52.3 mpg against the dual transmission’s 44.8, and CO2 emissions are better for the manual, putting out 141 k/gm against 167 g/km. This still helps to bring down its rating in terms of road tax cost.
Both saloons have excellent safety features with airbags to the front, side and roof, and a passenger airbag that can be deactivated by a switch. Standard driving control features include traction control, electronic stability control and an anti-lock braking system as well as a brake assist system. Children’s safety is paramount and there are childproof locks on the rear doors and an Isofix restraint system for child seats.
Additional standard safety features include front fog lights and rear parking distance sensors.
Hatchback
Great styling and looks, matching those of its sister saloon, makes the hatchback version of the Chevrolet Cruze a real head turner. With seven versions to choose from, with varying transmissions and engine types, there is something to suit every motorist looking for a compact but well-performing family car.
Entry level consists of the LS 1.6 and the LT 1.6, with petrol engines delivering a combined 42.8 mpg with CO2 emissions of 153 g/km. There are a few variations between the LS and the LT in terms of additional safety features, such as rear parking sensors and front fog lamps on the LT, but the major safety features as detailed in the saloon are all there.
The LT also comes with a 2.0-litre VCDi diesel engine, has a six-speed manual transmission and a very creditable fuel consumption of 50.4 mpg. CO2 emissions of 147 g/km are also an attractive option for drivers looking to minimise road tax costs.
The LTZ is the top of the range and offers four options with 1.8 and 2.0-litre engines and a choice of manual and automatic with manual mode transmissions.
To find out more about the new Chevrolet Cruze visit your local Lookers Chevrolet showroom.
