2019 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback

Apr 14, 2024, 2:34pm ET

The Cruze is Chevrolet's entry into the compact hatchback market. One of the firm's truly global vehicles, the Cruze is sold in several regions across the globe, but the North American version of the compact is built right here in Lordstown, Ohio.

For those who prefer their small cars to come with a trunk, Chevrolet offers the Cruze as a four-door sedan.

Overview

The newest version of the Cruze sedan draws design cues from its bigger brothers, the Malibu and Impala. The front end is highlighted by a pair of swept-back headlights with LED accents. The latest version of Chevrolet's double grille gets prominent placement on Cruze's nose. It's instantly recognizable as a member of the company's line-up.

A rising belt line and a sloping roof line give the Cruze a sporty look in profile, although the latter design feature does eat into rear-seat headroom. The rear of the Cruze features wide taillights, a trapezoidal license plate cutout, and a stylized lower bumper with integrated reflectors.

Inside, drivers are met by a three-spoke steering wheel with multi-function capabilities on upper-end models. Cruze uses a conventional gauge layout, but infotainment choices are decidedly more advanced. In addition to Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment suite, the latest version of Chevy's compact sedan also boasts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Other high-tech features include General Motors' OnStar telematics system and available 4G LTE WiFi connectivity to keep passengers connected on-the-go.

Technical specifications

Chevrolet went to great lengths to make the Cruze nimbler and more efficient than its predecessor. Helping to lead that efficiency charge is a new 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that's standard across the board. It's good for 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. Depending on spec, Cruze can return up to 42 mpg highway.

Also available is a 1.6-liter, 137-horsepower turbodiesel engine boasting a whopping 240 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy checks in at 31 mpg in the city and a hybrid-like 47 mpg on the highway.

Chevrolet no longer offers the Cruze with a manual transmission. The gasoline engine shifts through a six-speed automatic, while the turbodiesel is bolted to a nine-speed automatic.

Standard and optional features

Chevrolet offers the Cruze Hatchback in four trim levels named LS, LT, Diesel, and Diesel Premier. The LS model comes standard with features like a seven-inch touchscreen display, automatic headlights, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, and OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in WiFi. It rides on 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps but it nonetheless comes with 10 airbags.

Moving up in the trim hierarchy adds more features. LT models benefit from a compact spare tire, split-folding rear seats, 16-inch alloys, and a six-speaker sound system.

Buyers have several option packages to choose from. The selection depends on the trim level selected, and many packages bundle desirable options offered as standard on more expensive trim levels. For example, the LS Convenience package offered on the Cruze LS brings a remote engine starter, cruise control, and 16-inch alloy wheels, among other features. The RS package brings a body kit, a Z-link rear suspension, and black trim pieces for a sportier look.

Occupant safety

All Cruze models ship with a standard safety suite that includes 10 airbags, a rear-view camera, StabiliTrak stability control and six-months of complimentary OnStar service. Addition safety upgrades include available rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane keep assist and forward collision alert.

Key competitors

Some of the Chevrolet Cruze's main rivals include the Honda Civic, the Hyundai Elantra GT, and the Volkswagen Golf.