The Chevy Cruze is a hatchback now. That means a potential improvement in practicality—though it was already a very practical vehicle. You can think of it as a new competitor to the Ford Focus. Our test car came with the "Premier 1SF" package. That made this a top-of-the-line example for the 2017 Cruze, adding features like a remote-start system, heated leather seats and a Bose audio system.
Chevy says they've trimmed its weight by about 200 pounds compared to the last generation, too. That should help with efficiency—Chevy lists the Cruze capable of achieving 37 mpg on the highway.
It's powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that can make 153 horsepower.
And they make a diesel version as well.
Duke
MegaDork
5/5/17 1:22 p.m.
Drove the midrange trim of one just like that - it was even a similar color. Overall it seemed like a nice small-midsize car for somebody who needed something like that. It was certainly way nicer in all ways than a comparably-priced Toyota.
JoeTR6
HalfDork
5/5/17 4:26 p.m.
That looks nice. I'm amazed that GM is building something I might consider buying (besides the Corvette). Now if they just made a version comparable to the Focus ST.
They're supposed to be pretty decent cars, and my buddy says his handles. We test drove them and the LTZ was nice, but it did nothing for either of us. That, and it makes 138 hp. That's ridiculous for 2017.
I love my 2015 but I wish it came in the hatchback then.
