Compact cars have a reputation as being fuel economy-minded, but not necessarily mindful that driver and passengers are along for the ride. The new Cruze (a replacement to the Cobalt in Chevy’s lineup) hits the right cruising notes in both fuel efficiency and riding comfort. Cruze feels more like a midsize sedan in term of roominess than it does a compact sedan. And for anyone stuck on the notion that riding inside a small car is akin to listening to rain hitting a tin can, the Cruze is a good example of a sound-minded car. Helping to keep the interior quiet is a headliner made of five acoustic material layers. Other noise-reducing treatments include the use of sound insulation—made from recycled denim—between the rear body structural components.

Cruze is powered by either a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, or a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder producing approximately 90% of peak torque from 2400 to 6500 rpm. Engines mate to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The 105.7-inch wheelbase Cruze sports an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and a Z-link rear suspension. (The Z-link design is lighter and more compact than a multi-axle suspension.)  Cruze is sold in four versions: LS, 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ. A $695 optional RS appearance package includes unique front and rear fascias, rocker moldings, fog lamps, rear spoiler, and instrument cluster with chrome accent rings. The Cruze LS with the 1.8-liter engine has an MSRP of $16,275 and collects estimated mpg of 22 city and 35 highway.