When there aren’t many good things to be said about $4 a gallon gas prices, you have to feel good that Chevrolet has put the American automobile manufacturing industry back in the game, as far as compact sedans are concern.
For years Japanese, German and even Korean automobile manufactures have been taking home the gold and silver medals in the small car events in the automobile Olympics. However, this year we have the truth, thanks to Chevrolet.
The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, Chevy’s new compact sedan, replaces the Cobalt, and it epitomizes auto giant’s dedication to its best-in-class philosophy and process. This is not a modified version of an old model, but the engineers in R&D went back to the drawing board this time and created a lean, mean, driving machine.
Even if you don’t like compact cars, this compact four-door sedan will make you look twice. The version I drove was the high mileage Cruze Eco with an EPA highway rating of 40 mpg. I actually got around 473 miles on 10 gallons of gas on the highway.
The exterior package includes a hot front air dam, rear trunk spoiler, lowered suspension and a motorized lower grille that closes once you exceed 37 mph and reopens at speeds under 34 mph. Bar none, it’s the sportiest compact sedan on the market today!
The interior boasts six-way adjustable power seats. Much roomier than other vehicles in its class, the legroom for front seat passengers is comparable to that in a midsized sedan. There’s not much legroom in the backseat, but that is the only drawback to this automobile. The trunk is huge; I was able to fit to trolley style suitcases and two large duffle bags inside.
This model is powered by a 1.4 liter turbocharged engine, and zips from 0-60 in 9 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission is torqued to perfection and shifts out smooth as silk. The suspension is perfect, and you can feel it on and off the highway. Whether you’re in rush hour traffic in and out of lanes, or on a trip down the highway; you will be thoroughly impressed with its nimble handling and overall ride quality.
This vehicle is a winner and if you are in the market for a compact sedan, the Chevrolet Cruze is a must-drive, before you make your purchase. We look forward to Chevrolet receiving the best-in-class award for this compact sedan. Take your place on the podium and get your gold medal, Cruze.
–al weems
