Long term Cruze- first update
Mark Holdsworth
2010-03-08
After taking Chev’s Cruze 1.8LT down to the picturesque Eastern Cape this past festive season, we were loath to send it back to General Motor’s press fleet.
As such, we managed to convince the powers that be to hand over another Cruze, this time in the guise of a 1.8LS, for three months so that we can get an impression of how it matches up in an urban environment.
This 2010 Car of the Year finalist boasts the same 1.8-litre petrol engine as the LT model, developing 104kW at 6 200rpm and 176Nm of torque at 3800rpm.
However, the fact that it is now mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, as opposed to the LT’s 6-speed automatic, means the LS should benefit from improved fuel consumption and performance.
Claimed performance figures say we should see the Cruze accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in 10 seconds dead.
However, coastal figures and reef figures are two very different things and we would expect to see a number closer to 12 seconds thanks to the energy-sapping altitude.
Chevrolet’s claimed combined cycle fuel consumption figure is also very respectable at 6.8 litres/100km.
However, real world figures are often not nearly as flattering and we’ll bring you our experiences over the next couple of months. So, keep reading.
Features-wise, the LS isn’t quite as luxurious as its LT sibling. Nevertheless, you still get power windows all-round, aircon, MP3 compatible Radio/CD with Auxiliary input and 6 CD front-loader.
The on-board computer is easy to use providing information on instant and average fuel consumption, range, and the usual odometer reading.
The LS provides a comfortable and well-designed interior.
A height adjustable driver’s seat as well as reach and rake adjustable steering all mean that finding the perfect driving position is a cinch while all controls for the radio, aircon and on-board computer come easily to hand.
The only concern we have centres around the cloth inlays on the dash that we fear may start to look a little ratty over time.
Chevrolet has also done their homework when it comes to safety features.
Remote central locking, ISOFIX child-seat attachments, speed sensitive automatic door locking and six airbags combine to ensure occupant protection while standard ABS, EBD and Traction Control have all contributed to its five-star EuroNCAP safety rating.
The next few months will see us putting the Cruze through its paces, both on urban roads, highways and the odd medium-distance excursion.
We’ll be looking at everything from ride and handling to performance and fuel consumption, so keep a keen eye out for the next update on our Cruze.
