It’s been over a month since I’ve taken the key to the Chevrolet Cruze Sport as a long-term loaner. I’ve never driven a Chevy before so it is probably fair for me to say that there weren’t any expectations about how the sedan would fare.
Despite only driving the Cruze on occasions, I’ve managed to clock more than 1,000 km on the car and I have to say it’s been a pretty delightful experience so far. Here are some reasons why:
It’s a good-looking sedan
Yes, it is aging and the second-generation model will be in the market soon but the first-gen Cruze is still a looker, especially in the Sport guise. Compared to the regular variant, the Sport (launched in Malaysia last year) comes with full body kit that includes a boot lid spoiler and rear diffuser with a twin tailpipe layout. 17-inch dual-tone wheels finish the look.
Driver-focused interior
Did you know that the interior layout is inspired by that of the Corvette? Both cars have a twin cockpit design that is separated by a centre console for that wraparound feel. Switchgears are placed within touch, while the multifunction steering wheel ensures focused driving at all times.
Easy to live with
The Cruze comes with an array of features that promote smooth owning experience such as keyless entry, push start button and remote control activated boot. The sedan also comes with a reverse camera, making parking easier than ever.
Adequate power from engine
While it’s not as powerful as many other smaller turbocharged engines out there, the Cruze’s 1.8-litre Ecotec mill provides enough juice (140 hp and 176 Nm of torque, to be exact) to get it going. While there is an even spread of power to play with, the engine doesn’t seem too eager to rev beyond 4,000 rpm unless the accelerator pedal is slammed.
Agile handling
The Cruze has a highly rigid unibody structure with more than 60 percent of high-strength steel, combined with a MacPherson strut up front and a torsion beam suspension with compound crank at the rear. This results in a lively sedan that is capable of taking on tight corners. If only the steering communicates more…
No compromise on comfort
Having a responsive chassis doesn’t always mean the ride is stiff and unforgiving. It is in fact the opposite of that – the Cruze absorbs uneven surfaces well and even when it has to deal with nasty potholes, there is no nasty jolt. Another praiseworthy attribute of the Cruze is its low NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels.
