When the Cobalt replaced the Cavalier a few years ago, I remember having enjoyed the car for its development against its predecessor. The future was going to lie, since the Cobalt was not entirely the point that even if there was an improvement. That's what scares me about the Cruze. Especially since General Motors has put the package on advertising. Is it because the product is not worth the trouble? I hope I am wrong because, in general, I liked that little car that marks the revival of GM.
Note that, unlike the Jumper Cobalt and its predecessor, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is sold in several countries around the world. And before being sold here, it was sold elsewhere where people have tested. So we should arrive well developed and free of major problems. Indeed, before being marketed in Canada, the Chevrolet Cruze has traveled more than 6 million miles in test quality and durability in the world. In Canada, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is available in three trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ Turbo Turbo. LT is the Turbo, which was the subject of my essay, the central model which should represent a good share of sales due to its level of equipment well studied.
When taking place in the driver's seat, there is no surprise. We are in a pure product GM of recent design. Three recessed dials into each other we are faced with green display not very dynamic. At the bottom of the central dial, a small screen to the onboard computer that displays more information about the operation of the vehicle. For the central block is also the latest design with a V-shape and several buttons easy enough to find and use. I do not like the fact that we have put the fabric on the dashboard on the passenger side. With the dust that may accumulate, it will be difficult to clean. A rectangular screen for the audio system information overlooks the central block. Like all screens of this type, it is sensitive to sunlight and it is really time for manufacturers to find a trick to avoid losing any information on this screen because of Galarneau. Speaking of audio, it is very good both in terms of XM Satellite Radio as the CD playback. The iPod interface is also appreciated for its detailed and USB relatively well placed in the small central trunk. The only downside is the Bluetooth connectivity which despite simple operation only accepts voice commands in English. I do not know if this is the case for most drivers, but I when I drive, I often right hand on the knob shifter. That's why I like the steering wheel of cellular and radio are on the left. This is not the case here as they are right. This is the cruise control is on the left. This is the same for ventilation knobs that appear to reverse as the temperature level is left and the right fan speed. These are details, but when you live six or more years with the same car, it can become important. What is even more important is to be comfortable in his car and it is in the Chevrolet Cruze. The front seats are also equipped with good lateral support. It's different at the back where the seat is flatter and where the legroom is more accurate. In fact, the legroom is dependent on the goodwill of the front passengers who decide to have mercy or not your knees. The trunk is a good size despite a loading threshold too high. The rear seat can be folded into 1/3-2/3 section in position but not perfectly flat.
This is the mechanism that represents the true novelty of the Chevrolet Cruze since 2011 is facing two new engines. First, a 1.8-liter version LS team atmosphere. Then, a 1.4-liter turbo for the LT and LTZ. Both produce 138 horsepower and the difference is in torque is 125 lb.-ft. and 148 respectively. The beauty of the 1.4 liter that produces its torque at low rpm (1850 rev / min. 3800 against the 1.8 liter). To make overtaking, is ideal. Two transmissions are available: first, a six-speed manual. Then, a gearbox six-speed automatic, which manages much engine power. The manual transmission is attached to this rather disappointing because the gearshift is too long to be enjoyable. But as is the fashion ... Nothing very exciting in handling but it must be said that the Cruze is as good as many other models in this area. The suspension is independent front and torsion beam rear. It gives a comfortable, but if the road is bumpy curves, the back tends to slip away. So caution on small country roads! Steering is electrically assisted rack and pinion. The brakes are front discs and rear drums. Disc brakes on all four wheels are optional. No particular criticism at the brake except that I wish the four discs are standard.
In terms of safety, GM made an effort. First, anti-lock brakes, the system stability control and rollover sensor are standard. In widely publicized, GM is proud to offer 10 standard airbags: front, other-seat, curtains and cushions for even the knees. The pedals are also retractable in a collision.
If reliability is the appointment this time, Chevrolet hands a good car. It is not really on top of the competition but it is not the bottom. It's a good little car with good gas mileage. My only concern is not limited to this Chevrolet: I hope that the sustainability of improved turbochargers because it was not always spotless. Several manufacturers use this trick to lower their average gas mileage. I just hope that consumers will not do the costs. To return to the Cruze, I am confident that this time is good for GM seems to be more careful about the quality of its products since the financial crisis.
