Chevrolet Cruze (09 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on 26 March 2009

Last Updated: 01 February 2010

The Cruze represents a major leap forward compared with Chevrolet's Lacetti saloon. Bold styling, a good spread of petrol and diesel engines as well as neat handling are all things the Lacetti saloon lacks - but that's not the case with the Cruze. The diesel might be a little noisy, but at least there is one available (this was never offered on the Lacetti in the UK) with a choice of two power outputs. The interior has been attractively styled, too and although the Cruze competes on price with the Kia Ceed, Hyundai i30 and Skoda Octavia, it is significantly larger, making customers feel like they're getting more for their money.

3.5 out of 5

Other Chevrolet reviews

3 out of 5

Buying new

The first 100 customers to place orders were lucky enough to benefit from three years' free servicing and road tax, but it shouldn't be difficult to negotiate some other sweetener, whether it's money off, or an upgrade to an air-conditioned model if you're looking at the base-spec car. It probably isn't worth choosing the optional integrated satellite navigation system - using your own portable sat nav will do - as the factory-fitted version will not add much value to the car on the used market.

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2.5 out of 5

Buying used

With average depreciation expected, the Cruze should be a decent used buy. There are no poor versions and the 1.6-litre petrol engine should be good enough for people looking for cheap family transport.