Chevrolet released the Cruze in 2008 and currently, it already has a total of three generations. The most recent model was launched in 2018 after receiving a facelift and more powerful engines. With its refreshed exterior, the Chevrolet Cruze now sports a similar look to the brand’s other models such as the Malibu and the Trax. The Cruze is the brand’s entry into the Philippines’ compact sedan category. It distinguishes itself from competitors through its spacious cabin that can comfortably sit a maximum of five people. It boasts of a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with manual and automatic transmission options. The Chevrolet Cruze offers three variants in the market: the base 1.8L MT, the 1.8 LS AT, and the top of the line 1.8L LT AT. The top-range variant is decked in leather upholstery and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the console. It likewise offers distinct features such as a push start button.
Launch
The American brand first introduced the Cruze in 2008 with two engine options. The first was a 1.8L gasoline engine and the second one is a 2.0L diesel power plant. Eventually, the diesel variant was phased out from the Philippine market as two more generations of the Chevrolet Cruze were developed. At present, the model sold in the Philippines is the 2018 version.
Exterior
The Chevrolet Cruze received a facelift coming off from its previous generations. Following the more modern design language of the brand, the Cruze now has a similar exterior aesthetic seen on the Chevrolet Malibu and the Chevrolet Trax. The grille was refreshed as well as the shape of the car’s body.
All variants of the Cruze come with halogen headlamps and high-level stop lamps as standard. The AT variants also feature halogen fog lamps and rear fog lamps. A power foldable OSRVM with heater mirror is included in the top of the line variant.
The Chevrolet Cruze’s top range variant rides on 17-inch alloys while other variants come with 16-inch alloys.
Interior
Inside the top of the line 1.8L AT LT variant are leather upholstered seats in either a light or dark color scheme. Other variants in the lineup are clad in premium cloth materials for the more discerning market. The rear seats can be folded 60/40 to create more space for cargo. The driver’s seat features four-way manual adjustability while the passenger seat gets a two-way adjustability control.
The top range variant’s console features a 7-inch touchscreen linked to the Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment System that allows easy smartphone connectivity. It is compatible with Apple CarPlus and Android Auto.
Technology & Safety Features
All variants of the Chevrolet Cruze come with a driver display information system, front and rear auxiliary 12V power outlet, steering wheel wireless interface for hands-free phone usage, steering wheel radio controls, and an audio system attached to six speakers. The model also offers Aux, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity as standard delivery.
The Cruze’s top of the line variant has more tech and safety features. It is equipped with auto-dimming rearview mirror, cruise control, push start/stop button, and electronic climate controls.
Platform & Chassis
Chevrolet Cruze rides on a Delta II platform with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Stopping power comes from disc brakes at the front and rear for all variants except the entry-level model which is equipped with rear drum brakes. McPherson strut suspension remains in front while compound crank axle in the rear.
Engine & Drivetrain
All gasoline variants of the Chevrolet Cruze run on a 1.8-liter inline-4 16-valve DOHC DCVCP engine. The diesel variant is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 16-valve DOHC CRDN with turbocharger and intercooler. The former produces 142 hp and 177 Nm of torque while the diesel variant produces 163 hp and 360 Nm of torque. The model is available in two types of transmission, a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and a 5-speed manual transmission depending on the variant. The Cruze’s engine and transmission options are conveniently compact enough to drive around the city yet highly capable of speeding through the highway.
