The Chevrolet Cruze debuted for the 2011 model year and has undergone several minor updates since then. But even after a visual refresh for the 2015 model year, the Chevrolet Cruze looked a bit long in the tooth compared to other cars in its segment. For 2016, the Cruze trades in its economy car looks for something more aspirational: a sleeker, coupe-like body. Along with a host of new technologies and a more powerful base engine, the Cruze matures considerably in its second generation.
The new Cruze sports a cleaner grille design, narrow headlights, a short rear deck, and unexpected character lines running across its lithe body. A subtle rear spoiler contributes to the car's aero efficiency and complements a fast-sloping back end. Proportionally, the new Cruze is 2.7 inches longer and 0.7 inch lower than its predecessor, riding on a slightly longer wheelbase.
For the first time, turbocharging is standard on the Cruze. Under the hood, the Cruze packs a new 1.4-liter, turbocharged inline-four with 153 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. That's up 15 hp and 29 lb-ft of torque from the previous 1.4-liter, turbo engine, which was an optional engine choice. The powerplant is paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, and auto start/stop is included on the automatic. Chevrolet estimates a 0-60 mph run of 8 seconds in the model, which if true would put it about on par with the 2012 Cruze Eco we tested at 8.1 seconds. Fuel economy from the new turbo engine is expected to reach 40 mpg on the highway when paired with the automatic transmission, although that number has yet to be confirmed by the EPA.
The new Cruze uses a leaner architecture that helps it shed 250 pounds from the previous model. Thanks to the use of high-strength steels, the Cruze has a 27 percent stiffer body structure that is intended to produce better handling characteristics relative to the outgoing model. Most models feature a torsion-beam rear axle with an enhanced "Z-link" (Watt's linkage) on the top trim level, promising a balanced drive.
