2013 Chevrolet Cruze

Since its introduction a few years ago, the Chevrolet Cruze has become a strong offering in the fiercely competitive compact car segment. Sure, the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic sell in bigger numbers, but the Cruze has proven a worthy domestic alternative thanks to its variety of trim levels and respectable fuel economy. The 2013 Cruze continues to build upon that solid foundation.

The Chevrolet Cruze Eco, for example, is EPA rated at 28/42 mpg city/highway when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission (26/39 for the automatic). The Cruze Eco employs a number of fuel-saving techniques and technologies including active grille shutters, low-resistance tires, and revised transmission gearing targeted at keeping the engine revving low. In our six-car comparison of 40-mpg highway compact sedans, the Cruze Eco placed second and posted the best fuel numbers among the group. Power comes from a small 1.4-liter turbo-four cylinder engine that produces 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque.

The same engine powers other Cruze trim levels including the 1LT, 2LT, and the LTZ; The base LS model gets a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter four cylinder (138-hp and 125 lb-ft) and is EPA rated at 25/36 mpg city/highway when paired with the six-speed manual gearbox (22/35 with the auto). Standard items on all Cruze models include Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and remote keyless entry. Opting for the top-of-the-line LTZ trim nets automatic climate control, rear vision camera, and push-button start.

New for 2013

The 2013 Chevy Cruze 1LT is now offered with a Driver Convenience Package that adds a six-way power driver seat, rear camera, and heated power mirrors. MyLink and a touchscreen infotainment system are standard on Cruze Eco, 2LT, and LTZ models and three new paint colors have been added: Cyber Gray, Champagne Silver, and Atlantis Blue.

Key Competitors

• Toyota Corolla
• Honda Civic
• Ford Focus
• Kia Forte
• Dodge Dart

Sum Up

New tech keeps Cruze competitive.