ഷെവർലെറ്റ് ക്രൂയിസ് LTZ

Cruze has been one of the most loved and appreciated machine from Chevrolet since the time of its launch. First edition of the model was launched in 2009 which stood as a dominant sedan in the market overcoming all odds. And now the company has come out with the second edition of this flagship. Face lifted version is launched with sporty design and jazzy interiors along with augmented safety standards. Equipped with the same old dynamic 2.0 liter engine, this machine is surely fun to ride. With all the changes it comes with, does it still have what it takes to attract the masses and translate into increase in sales number for Chevy? We find out.

Pros:

1. Beautiful exterior is sure to turn heads.

2. Improved Ground clearance.

Cons:

1. Low mileage does put a dent.

2. Price range can turn away potential customers.

Stand Out Features:

1. One of the best handling machines in its segment.

2. Safety cage and side air bags are offered for improved safety.

Overview:

Chevrolet Cruze since its launch has impressed the audience with its luxury and style. It always possessed high safety standards and impressive looks. To consolidate on these positives and build on it further, Chevrolet reworked on its flagship, and this time it looks even bigger and better. With refined safety standards, luxurious interiors and classy dress, the refined model will define affluence. Cruze LTZ variant comes with the most powerful engine in its class which is mated to a manual 6 speed gear box. Chevy has laid emphasis on whole assembly which includes accessories like dual port front grille, dual bezel head lamps, split design tail lamps. It also comes with alloy wheels, body colored bumpers, side air bags, front fog lamps which enhance the overall look. Passenger convenience is intensified with MyLink infotainment system, text to speech, blue-tooth audio streaming, SIRI eyes free mode, key less open and start/ stop, re worked exteriors and upgraded safety standards. Available at a price range of 17.0 lac, it locks horns with Hyundai Elantra, Honda city and Toyota Corolla Altis.

Exterior:

Bold and classy! Is what you call its exteriors. Front fascia with dual port chrome grille and golden Chevrolet badge looks cool. Samurai eyed head lamps are striking. DRLs (Daytime Running Lamp) cluster adds to the overall design. Re-worked body-colored bumper with honeycomb structured air intake system looks stunning. Projection Fog lamps are revised to add C-shaped chrome surrounds. Bonnet with sleek center crease is astounding. The side profile leaves an ever lasting impression with its finishing. Chrome door handles, tinted glass windows, chrome garnish on window sill, body colored ORVMs and muscular lines appear just about perfect. The rear is complemented with exhaust pipe and trunk lid garnish with chrome inserts. In addition to that the Golden Chevrolet badge, newly added split tail lamps and body colored bumpers are attractive and make it look complete. Top section is blessed with electric sun roof with pinch guard protective mesh, newly added rear roof antenna makes it look sporty.

Interior:

Premium black and titanium wraparound theme for the interior design is eye soothing. Dual cockpit interior design is derived from Corvette. Triple pod instrument cluster with icy blue illumination looks cool. Leather seats are monotone jet black in color with titanium stitch highlights. New 7 inch MyLink touchscreen infotainment system, multi function steering holding audio calls, SIRI eyes free compatibility, voice recognition, electronic trip computer with vehicle info, front rear reading lamps and front center armrest with storage sliding lid are present to comfort passengers. It is further augmented by provision of auto air conditioning, integrated audio system, embedded apps like Internet radio, USB AUX ports. It also gets rear view camera, power windows, dead pedal, rear glass defogger, sunglass holder, rear accessory power socket and other aspects. For improved driver comforts, it is incorporated with 6 way power adjustable driver seat and tilt-able power steering housing functions like cruise control, audio controls, infotainment and other operations which makes this machine definitely desirable.

Performance:

Chevy Cruze comes with a powerful 2.0 liter VCDi (Variable Geometry Common Rail Direct Injection) turbocharged diesel engine. Comprising of 4 cylinders and 16 valves, this mill works on DOHC (Dual Over head Camshaft) design with a displacement capacity of 1998cc. This motor churns out 163.72 bhp power at 3800 rpm 360 Nm torque at 2000 rpm, beating all the competitors. It comes with a 6 speed manual gear box, this machine is capable of attaining a mileage of 17.3 kmpl. Hosting most powerful engine in its class, it ensures breath taking performance and reduced emissions.

Ride Handling:

Crzue is known to be one of the best handling vehicles and is capable to make an average driver feel confident. On front axle, McPherson strut with linear cylindrical coil spring and tubular stabilizer bar suspension system has been incorporated. It also comes with a compound crack type non linear mini block coil spring suspension at the rear axle which results in superior handling. Additionally they are dressed with twin tube gas filled type shock absorbers to restrict imbalance and aid to the riding comfort. Wheels offered are 6.5J x 16” alloy wheels with traditional disc braking system at both front and rear axles respectively. Tilt-able and reach adjustable steering system with on-center and driver feedback is available to boost the overall experience.

Safety:

Safety standards offered are one of the best in-class with multiple new inserts. Side front dual air bags to deal with high impact collisions, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD, safety cage with reinforced tubular bars. In addition to this you also get ISO-FIX child seat provisions for child safety. Front rear crumple zones to absorb collision impact, rear park assist and rear vision camera linked to 7 inch display are present to safeguard the passengers, making it one of the safest trims. The vehicle is further secured with advanced security systems like engine immobilizer, anti-theft alarm, auto door lock and unlock in case of crash, front fog lamps and battery run down protection.

Verdict:

Compared to outgoing model, the revised version is better in every aspect. With improved safety standards, fresh exterior design, luxurious interiors this vehicle stands out and outscores competition. We felt that mileage could have been better. However the price it commands it would be deal breaker for many potential customers. Having said that it still justifies the price tag with the range of features it comes loaded with. If you are one of those who want a performance oriented car with great interiors and striking exteriors and are ready to shell out huge bucks then this is the machines for you. But if you are the ones on the thriftier side then its best to look elsewhere.