Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
I spent a week test driving the new 2.0TD and found it as impressive as all the other Cruze models I’d previously driven, with the added bonus of much better acceleration and, of course, much improved fuel economy, the real reason people pay a little more for diesel power. The engine, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, makes 151 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque (280 with overboost), and being that torque is what primarily gets a car moving the 2.0TD will likely put a smile on your face. It’s mated up to a smooth-shifting and efficient six-speed automatic, which is about
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
The latter is where any diesel truly shines and where hybrids are weakest, at least when it comes to fuel economy, so if you spend a lot of time at high speed you’d likely be better served by a Cruze 2.0TD than something electrified. During my test week my real-world results weren’t quite as good as the 2014 EnerGuide numbers I just quoted, my tester nevertheless achieving a commendable 7.0 L/100km combined average, which is about what the U.S. EPA estimates. My results
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
The turbo-diesel powerplant is the only change for 2014, by the way, the Cruze having already been extensively updated last year. Unlike a 2LT-trimmed example with the sporty RS package I tested previously, the diesel-powered Cruze is devoid of soft-touch plastics other than the armrests, although woven cloth dash and door inserts are very nice. Additionally, the 2.0TD’s standalone trim level gets leather upholstery, which was a better quality than most offer in this class, while the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel felt good in the hands with comfortable contoured indentations (spats) for thumbs and a substantive meaty feel
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
The chrome-rimmed multi-colour primary gauges are very attractive and highly legible in all lighting conditions, and the bright, large full-colour infotainment display on the centre stack works intuitively, with a large control pad of nice, big, well-damped buttons just below allowing complete access even while wearing winter gloves. It featured a reverse camera system, navigation as well as an excellent Pioneer audio system, the latter featuring satellite radio with reception that was unfortunately so spotty I finally gave up and went back to FM.
A
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
That’s where the Cruze feels most comfortable; the car’s wonderfully compliant ride ideal at high speeds thanks to a long 2,686-millimetre (105.7-inch) wheelbase and nicely controlled independent suspension. The Cruze utilizes MacPherson struts up front and a unique compound crank setup with a Watts Z-link in the rear. The Watts system is lightweight, comfortable and agile, plus it is
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
Like the trunk there’s plenty of room in the Cruze’s cabin too, with good rear seat space even with 40-percent of the 60/40 split seatbacks folded down. The rear seats are comfortable and there’s ample head, shoulder, hip and legroom for most body types, so your passengers can stretch out and enjoy the ride.
Other
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
My tester had yet more, adding a $180 Convenience Package with illuminated vanity mirrors and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an $885 Enhanced Safety Package with rear parking assist, rear cross traffic alert, and side blind zone alert, an $1,100 Sun & Sound Package featuring a powered glass sunroof and 250-watt nine-speaker Pioneer audio system, a $795 update to the MyLink infotainment system adding navigation, and finally a $195 coat of Black Granite metallic paint, the tally
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
For such a good car incorporating clean diesel power the Cruze 2.0TD offers great value, especially when put up against its chief competitor, Volkswagen’s Jetta TDI, and as mentioned the Cruze is a true global player that easily measures up to the Mexican-made Jetta, and then some.
The next time you’re driving around, take notice of all the Chevy Cruzes you see driving by and realize that it’s popular for good reason. The new clean diesel simply makes it more fun to drive and better on fuel, not a bad combination.
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