The Chevrolet Cruze does not have history on its side. The Chevrolet division of General Motors has historically done "big" well: Big pick-ups, big family saloons and big V8 muscle cars. When it comes to small cars, though, Chevrolet wasn't that good in creating them. However, all that's changed with the introduction of the compact Chevrolet Cruze saloon in 2011. The introduction of the Chevrolet Cruze was an honest first-class upgrade, which leaves pedestrian design and suspect quality behind in favour of well-rounded sophistication that meets its world-class competition head-on. Recently GM updated the Chevrolet Cruze for the very last time as they work on finishing up on the next generation model.
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| 2015 Chevrolet Cruze |
Design
The 2015 Cruze's design still has the bold face - including a two-tier grille with the iconic Bowtie logo - which is Chevrolet's signature look around the globe. However, the front bumper now features curved air intakes, with chrome touches and fog lamps, large air splitter and a central air intake. The disticnt arching roofline connects a steeply raked windshield and fast-sloping rear pillars to give the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze a sporty, coupe-like proportion. The sporty aesthetic is also seen in prominent headlamp housings that wrap around the corners and sweep upward in the fenders and sculpted hood, as well as a short rear end. The wheels are at the corners, with minimal front and rear overhangs. All the elements work cohesively to give 2015 Chevrolet Cruze an aggressive look that is complemented by a wide, confident stance. The rear look of the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze is further enhanced by the redesigned bumper.
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| Redesigned front |
Performance
The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze is available with a 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre power units. The 1.6-litre power unit is a latest generation unit from GM. In its latest form a variable volume intake manifold and revised engine control calibration provide an increase in power from 80 kW (107 hp) to 91kW (122 hp). Maximum torque is 155 Nm.The 1.8-litre power plant shares the twin-cam, 16-valve VVT architecture of the 1.6-litre power plant. This unit produces 104 kW (140 hp) and 176 Nm of torque. Backing the updated Chevrolet Cruze's power units are six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Each contributes to saloon’s excellent fuel economy and, with their carefully matched gears, enhances its fun-to-drive quotient.
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| Unmistakable profile |
Ride
A MacPherson strut suspension is used up front, while a technically advanced Watts Z-link design is used with the rear suspension. It helps centre the rear axle during cornering, helping to keep the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze's handling responses symmetrical on both left-hand and right-hand turns. StabiliTrak electronic stability control as well as traction control and anti-lock brakes are standard. Electric power steering is also standard on all models. Along with a responsive driving experience, the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze now delivers impressive quietness and refinement on the road.
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| Cockpit |
Interior
The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze's bold design is carried over to the interior, where a twin-cockpit motif is matched with high-quality materials. The instrument panel features richly detailed dials that are backlit with light-emitting diode (LED) technology. The LED lights provide a crisp, ice-blue illumination of the analogue instruments, as well as lighting for other interior controls. A standard driver information centre offers a wealth of information to the driver. Blending harmoniously with the instrument panels is an integrated centre console that houses the infotainment display, climate controls and radio controls. The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze's front seats offer plenty of adjustment and are both supportive and comfortable. A low cushion for the backseat allows for more rear legroom. At the back, the seats are supportive and there are acres of legroom for all the three occupants. Headroom is impressive while the large boot swallows the a sizable amounts of luggage for long trips.
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| Rear look |
Verdict
The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze's handling remains sharp and precise, but the most welcome improvements give the saloon a more refined interior, vastly improved styling and quality. With a variety of truly impressive competitors available these days, we wouldn't exactly call it a class leader, but the wholly competent Cruze shows that Chevrolet can now do "small" as well as "big."
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