We say Massive improvement on the old Lacetti and a decent alternative to sector leaders - if generally weaker.Performance There are two basic petrol engines available on the Cruze saloon with 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre petrol units in the line-up. Both offer enough performance and pep to cope with all driving in the UK however the larger 141bhp 1.8-litre unit is better suited to motorway driving than the smaller engine which can feel harassed at speed. For the first time, Chevrolet has brought a diesel engine on one of its saloons this time in the form of a 2.0-litre VCDi unit with a maximum output of 150bhp. The diesel is the best engine in the range and the one which feels most capable in terms of power.Emissions The petrol engines offer very average CO2 emissions and fuel economy figures when compared to some of the more popular saloons on the market with CO2 emissions around the 150g/km mark and fuel economy sitting at around 40mpg. The diesel is much better with CO2 emissions below the 150g/km mark and more miles per gallon. There are much more frugal saloons available though.Driving The Cruze is a comfortable saloon which means it’s easy to drive if a little boring. Steering is too light with little feedback through the wheel which means you’re guessing a bit with how much lock to put on. It copes fairly well around bends with manageable bodyroll and compares favourably to other models on the market.Feel The Cruze is a value for money car and that’s most noticeable in its ride which can be uncomfortable on the UK’s uneven road surfaces. That’s exasperated by engines that have to be worked hard to reap any kind of reward from them which means the cabin can be a noisy, rowdy place to be at speed.Space For four adults, the Cruze saloon provides ample leg and headroom for all occupants and it will take five at a push. At the rear there’s a large 450-litre boot which impresses when its rivals dimensions are considered.Equipment All models come well equipped and flooding the cabin with plenty of technology is something that Chevrolet specialises in as a way of pulling buyers away from its competitors. The most basic S model comes without air conditioning but further up the range rear parking sensors, alloy wheels, cruise control and integrated satellite navigation systems are all fitted.Price The Cruze is one of the cheapest saloons on the market with prices starting from around £18,000. It’s the American saloon’s unique selling point in the UK.Quality Compared to the Lacetti – the car it effectively replaces – the Cruze marks a vast improvement in build quality. Inside all the materials are upgraded and look much more stylish even if they still feel cheaper than the materials you’re likely to find in fords and Vauxhalls. It favours a modern dashboard design even if it is a little brash on the high-end trim levels.Safety As standard all Cruzes come with stability control, traction control and ABS with brake assist, alongside six airbags around the cabin. It scored a maximum five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP.Pros The Cruze is cheap for a saloon and comes well kitted out. It’s also more unique than the majority of cars that flood the UK’s roads.Cons The engine line-up is gutless and when compared to its rivals its ride and handling are poor.Alternatives Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Insignia
