The Chevrolet Cruze has been a standout product in many respects. With its introduction a couple of years ago, Chevrolet showed shoppers that it could produce a serious, top-tier compact sedan—one that excelled in comfort, interior space, safety, and features. And if those aspects are your shopping priority, the Cruze is one of the best picks in its class—especially for 2013, with a bolstered lineup of infotainment and active-safety features.
When it was first introduced for the 2011 model year, the Cruze set a new design direction for GM compact cars. And while it isn't all that head-turning from the outside, the interior has one of the most stylish, cohesive layouts in this class of rather look-alike sedans. Inside, rich materials, stunning two-tone combinations, and an upscale feel all keep the Cruze above the rest. The Cruze is almost mid-sized, with enough space for four adults (five in a pinch), plus excellent adjustability for drivers and a huge trunk.
The 2013 Chevrolet Cruze could be perplexing when it comes time to choose between powertrains, but to us the choice is clear. There are two four-cylinder engines offered in the Cruze, but don't be lead astray; it's the smaller of the two that's the 'premium' pick. The step-up 1.4-liter turbocharged four that you get with most LT and all LTZ models is smooth and refined, and it pairs better with the available six-speed automatic (a six-speed manual is offered, too). The base 1.8-liter four is a little too noisy and coarse when pressed. EPA ratings are pretty impressive for the whole lineup, but they're best for the Eco model, which gets 42 mpg highway through weight savings and special aero improvements.
The Cruze otherwise feels more mature, more like a mid-sizer, and that's a good thing if this sedan is going to pinch-hit as a family vehicle. Its isolated cabin and absorbent ride will please most day-to-day users. It's one of the quietest vehicles in its class, damping out road and wind noise and soaking up major road shocks and potholes well—even if its ride is on the taut side. Seating is a strong point; you'll find more front headroom than most vehicles in its class, and it's a great pick for taller drivers as there's so much rearward seat travel. Look to the backseat, and it's what reveals the Cruze as a compact; it's just a little too tight to fit three across.
The Cruze has in past model years been both an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick, as well as a federal five-star performer. We expect those excellent showings to carry over for 2013; but to complement that Chevy is introducing even more available safety equipment. A rear-vision camera system is now available as part of a Technology Package, and a new Enhanced Safety Package includes Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and rear park assist—all features that were the exclusive domain of luxury brands up until a few model years ago.
Chevrolet MyLink, which gives you voice-command access and touch-screen control of connected smartphones—is now offered in the 2013 Cruze. In addition, Gracenote functionality grabs playlist and album-art information, and Pandora and Stitcher apps let you stream music while using your smartphone's data connection. MyLink is included on Cruze 2LT, Eco, and LTZ models, and optional on 1LT.
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