2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel

Razor-Sharp Handling and Cutting Edge Diesel

2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel (Courtesy of Chevrolet)

The 2014 Cruze Turbo Diesel has a powertrain that consists of a 2.0L turbo diesel DOHC engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. Engine output is listed at 151 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 264 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,600 rpm. The EPA fuel economy is 27 mpg in the city. 

Cruze has an industry best EPA estimate of 46 mpg on the highway, which is better than any new hybrid passenger car in America. With a full tank consisting of 15.6 gallons, Cruze’s estimated range is more than 700 miles.

The Cruze is powered by the cleanest diesel engine made by General Motors yet, generating 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions compared to previous diesels. 

Cruze is a compact car that allows you to “stack it, flip it, pull it down,” to make for a roomy vehicle. The 60/40 split, folding rear seat is a key part of the cargo space. Front leg room is 42.3 inches and rear leg room is 35.4 inches. But even with adequate legroom, the front seats need measured expansion. 

Jet black leather appointed front bucket seats (6-way power adjustable driver side and 6-way manual adjustable passenger side) make the cabin comfortable. Yet with dark interior and the seemingly slow-to-motivate air conditioner it takes a while to get the cabin reasonably cool during the hot summer season. 

Steering wheel controls allow you to set cruise control and adjust SiriusXM satellite radio easily, while the steering column is telescopic with tilt, allowing enhanced comfort for all drivers. Power windows and door locks with lockout protection complement other safety features such as OnStar and 10 standard airbags. 

The Cruze Turbo Diesel is standard equipped with MyLink Radio Infotainment System, which features a 7-inch touch screen, navigation, a USB port, SiriusXM satellite radio, voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. It makes entertainment and communication as convenient as a short reach.

The OnStar service includes six months of Directions & Connections Plan with Turn-by-Turn Navigation. This safety service features Automatic Crash Response and built-in vehicle sensors that can automatically alert an OnStar advisor who is immediately connected to your vehicle to see if help is required. 

Outside, swept-back headlamps lead the eye past the fender and across sculpted angles with an emphasis on the front, where a strong grille oozes confidence in the aerodynamics of the vehicle. 

Seventeen-inch aluminum painted wheels and all season blackwall tires add to the outsides good looks. Power adjustable mirrors, daylight running lamps, rear spoilers and rear window electronic defogger are all standard items. 

Chevrolet MyLink featuring hands-free calling makes it easy for you to connect. It can connect to compatible smartphones to stream Pandora and Stitcher radio. It will also stream your own media over Bluetooth or USB from any compatible device.

The StabiliTrak electronic stability control system and advanced Z-link rear suspension provide a spirited performance while allowing excellent steering regardless of driving or road conditions. 

On slippery surfaces, if StabiliTrak senses a difference between the path being steered and the actual vehicle direction, it selectively applies brake pressure to the appropriate wheel, and if needed, adjusts engine torque to keep the vehicle on track. At the same time, Z-link rear suspension provides a solid, sturdy, and sporty driving experience. It is amazing how quickly Cruze responds to any driver’s whim

Standard price is $25,885. 

Warranty
36,000 miles/3 years Limited warranty
100,000 miles/5 year Powertrain limited warranty 
100,000 miles/6 year Rust-Through Sheet Metal Coverage
100,000 miles/ 5 year 24/7 Roadside Assistance Program

Durhl Caussey writes a car column that is read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected]