2018 Chevrolet Cruze

Pros: Roomy front-row accommodations; quiet cabin; comfortable and refined ride; availability of economical diesel engine

Cons: Limited rear-seat space; disappointing real-world fuel economy with gasoline engine

CG Says: For 2018, a diesel engine is available in the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback. Last year, the diesel was only offered in the Cruze sedan. Cruze is a compact car that is sold in sedan and 4-door hatchback body styles. The base engine is a turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder that develops 153 horsepower and has engine stop/start. Also available is a thrifty 137-hp turbodiesel 1.6-liter four-cylinder with an EPA-estimated highway mileage of up to 52 mpg. Both engines are offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. The gasoline engine can be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel can be mated to a 9-speed automatic. Available features include forward collision warning, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, keyless access and starting, heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, wireless cell-phone charging, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Cruze earns praise for being especially refined and comfortable. Though not sporty in any way, Cruze rewards drivers and passengers with a smooth ride, quiet cabin, and plenty of interior room. Sadly, we got nowhere near the fuel economy Cruze’s EPA estimates (gasoline engine) suggest we should have. A shame, as this is otherwise a very compelling compact offering.