Chevrolet Cruze (2011 - 2015) 1.8 LTZ 5d (2012/62) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Prefer style over substance. Seems Chevy went this way too, yes it looks lovely but they had a lot of annoyances to fix in the 2013 model. It also says your too vain to get a Focus which is far superior in nearly every way.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
I think they're blinded by the style, the bad stuff I keep inside like stress!
Would you buy this car again and why?
If I had to buy this car I wouldn't touch it, the Focus (especially in diesel estate), is a different class for not much more pennies. I've a feeling that most people are going to be using the 5yr warranty! But for the money the equipment levels are pretty good (but at a price?).
What are you likely to buy next?
I have growing children so it may have to be a people carrier (yuk), although I would be sorely tempted by the Focus Estate, if they're still that good in 3 years time.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
September 2012
Did you get a good deal and why?
Na
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Got this car through Motability.
What was the dealer like?
Very accomodating.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Soulless. 1.8 gutless unless you hammer it (not good for saving fuel), after years of diesels I will never get a petrol car again! Have to down-shift frequently. Wind noise disappointing & steering too light at speed. Rock hard suspension. Dash lights way too bright on unlit roads, frequently have to manually adjust it. Corners pretty well with little roll, cabin layout is excellent & colour scheme - doesn't look cheap. Equipment levels are pretty good against the competition I gather, Parking sensors are a must! Good looks externally front & sides, the rear is horrible.
What's it like to park?
The rear window has a limited view so you might want to get parking sensors, the LTZ does and you definitely need them. Visibility all round the car is therefore pretty good and the enlarged wing mirrors help.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
After 1k miles a crunching noise occurred under the car, always 2-3 seconds after turning ignition and setting off forward - apparently normal and is the ABS!
What's most practical about your car?
The car sits quite high (obviously not as high as an mpv), so access is quite easy. The rear seat is quite flat so easier to sit 1 person in the middle, and more comfortable.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
17" wheels and sounds bizarre - the way the needles on the dials bounce when you turn ignition on.