Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 VCDi 150 CV, test drive (Part II)

We now reach the second part of the test of the Chevrolet Cruze, equipped with a 150 CV diesel engine. We already talked about this 2.0 VCDi 150 CV engine paired with the five-speed manual gearbox in the first part of the test, and now it is time to get into the design of the Cruze and its interior space.

In this second part of the test is where the Cruze stands out the most, because they have achieved a vehicle with an attractive design, far removed from the iconic designs of the Daewoo era, while keeping a good interior with sufficient space, as well as a generous boot. The interior of the Cruze is also going to surprise us, because it features a significant increase in quality (compared to the Nubira) and also a design we had not seen until now in Chevrolet models.

Exterior design

As I already mentioned, the Cruze is the first model from the brand to use a global platform, designed to be sold on three continents. It is a mid-size saloon of large size, measuring 4.6 metres in length, and the designers have worked to give it a sporty character and, above all, personality in its design. At the front we find the large Chevrolet cross (present on the brand’s new models) and sharp, slanted headlights that reinforce that sporty feel.

If we look at the Cruze from the side, we see a firm design line running along the entire flank of the car and wide wheel arches. The rear keeps a more traditional design, with round lights similar to those of the Epica. Our Cruze was in the most complete trim level, LT, and therefore had the 17-inch alloy wheels, whereas as standard it comes with 16-inch wheels, which are more than sufficient for this saloon.

On the other hand our model was fitted with Kumho tyres measuring 225/50 R17, these tyres of Korean origin were not ideal for this saloon, and much less for the 150 CV engine. Kumho tyres are known for their price, but personally, their grip in the wet is not particularly good and, for somewhat powerful engines, they spoil the car’s performance.

Interior design, habitability and build quality

When we move to the interior of this Chevrolet, the first thing that stands out is the centre console, with a modern design that breaks with what we had seen in other models of the brand. The radio is now integrated, and our unit had a 6-CD changer and MP3 player (standard equipment on the LT trim).

The finishes gain a lot in quality, although there is still a lot of plastic, it is on a par with the compacts in its segment and is a long way from what the Nubira was. The climate controls, radio controls and buttons in general have a pleasant feel; proof of this is that many of the controls are shared with Opel (steering wheel, light controls, etc.).

Practically all the controls are within easy reach, the steering wheel also has cruise control and audio control functions; on the other hand, the only controls that are slightly harder to reach are those of the climate control. The instrumentation (with a three-dial design with sporty touches that reminds me of the Insignia) includes an interior screen that shows on-board computer information (average speed, consumption, km…) and which can be controlled from the indicator and wiper stalks.

When we sit down we find a good driving position, with comfortable seats that offer good lateral support. Visibility is good except to the sides, since the thick central pillar does not help much. In our case the seats were leather, an extra that includes leather and heated seats. Although it gives the Cruze a touch of distinction, it is a rather dispensable extra.

On the other hand, we have the rear seats, which offer plenty of space for two occupants who will travel comfortably (even three in comfort), with good headroom and sufficient legroom. One detail to improve is the absence of air vents for the rear seats; at this stage it is a necessary feature, especially in a saloon of this type, particularly when it has a 12-volt socket but no air outlets.

Another of the features that stands out in the Cruze is the storage spaces, as there are plenty distributed throughout the cabin, from a glasses holder, a glovebox on the upper part of the centre console (very practical placement), a mini glovebox under the steering wheel, cup holders in the centre tunnel and door pockets of considerable size to store our belongings.

The glovebox is rather small, but the other storage spaces make up for it quite well; even on the passenger side there is a sort of pouch attached to the centre tunnel for holding more items, and finally there is also the central armrest compartment (where there is an AUX input and, if equipped, USB). I particularly liked the storage detail; for a mid-size saloon it has many practical touches.

Finally, we must talk about the boot, which has a capacity of 450 litres, a very good size that allows us to make the most of it because it also has regular shapes. Under the boot floor we find a full-size spare wheel, a relief to see this kind of thing in cars, especially now that repair kits and emergency wheels, which solve little in the event of a major puncture, are in fashion.

Overall, the interior space is a key point of the Chevrolet Cruze, from the space for the front seats, rear seats or the boot itself. Having reviewed the interior of the car and its design, we leave the third part to discuss equipment and prices (another strong point of the Cruze).

Photos | David Taboada