Model Strengths:

• Attractive, Edgy Styling
• Competent, Well-handling Chassis
• Efficient Turbocharged Power
• Quality Interior Materials
• Quiet Cabin

Model Overview:

The Cruze shares its attractive styling cues with other Chevy offerings, notably the Malibu. The distinctive split front grille is found on other new cars in the company portfolio.

Available only as a 4-door sedan, the Cruze comes in four trim levels: LS, Eco, LT and LTZ. The LS is powered by a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing that produces 136 hp at 6,300 rpm. The unit is mated to standard 6-speed manual transmission, though a 6-speed automatic is available. Cars outfitted in LT, Eco or LTZ trim utilize a 138-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder, paired with the 6-speed automatic. The direct-injection engine delivers 148 ft-lb of torque at 1,850 rpm, and Chevrolet says it can deliver 38 mpg on the highway. The Eco version is similar to the LT, but with more aerodynamic body panels to help increase fuel economy. It also features low rolling resistance tires, lightweight wheels, and a smaller fuel tank. It's rated at 42 mpg highway.

The LS is very much an economy model, and standard features include steel wheels, manual mirrors, an AM/FM/CD 6-speaker stereo with MP3 playback and an auxiliary jack, XM satellite radio, cloth seating and a 60/40 split-fold rear seat. Air conditioning, power locks and windows and remote keyless entry are all standard on the LS as well.

The LT is split into two sub-trims: 1LT and 2LT. In addition to the turbo engine and auto gearbox, 16-inch steel wheels come standard, as do silver interior accents, remote start, a leather-clad steering wheel and power mirrors.

Stepping up to the LTZ adds niceties like a rear parking aid, power-adjustable driver's seat, leather seating, cruise control, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, electrochromic rearview mirror, heated side mirrors, climate control, a sport suspension, alloy wheels and performance tires.

Available options for the Cruze include touchscreen navigation with a 40-gigabyte hard drive, 9-speaker Pioneer stereo, heated leather seats, push-button start and fog lamps.

Standard safety items include stability control, antilock brakes, and a host of front, side, and knee airbags. Government crash test ratings have given the Cruze a 5-star rating for overall performance and for both front and side impact testing.

Model Changes:

Chevrolet has enhanced the Cruze with new interior options, including an infotainment system that's standard on all but the base LS model. This system includes Bluetooth streaming audio, Pandora compatibility and voice recognition among other features. Also new for 2013 is an available 7-inch color touchscreen that houses the optional navigation system. An enhanced safety package is also new this year, featuring sensors in the rear of the car to warn the driver of obstacles behind the car or in the blind spots.

Model Value:

The compact sedan segment is a crowded one, and Chevrolet is strengthening its game with the 2013 Cruze. Cabin noise is mostly absent, thanks to triple-seal doors, a laminated windshield and hydraulic engine mounts. And with an available 138-hp turbocharged engine with direct injection, it's possible to achieve excellent fuel economy with a sporty feel. Riding on a proven global platform, the Cruze takes the fight directly to the competition-- the Honda Civic, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra.