When it comes to small cars there were not a lot of major overhauls for the year 2014. One of the most notable changes was seen in the 2014 Chevrolet Cruz. There were several key modifications under the hood, including the introduction of a new turbo-diesel four-cylinder. Several modifications were also made in the cabin to make it feel more upscale, especially for smaller affordable cars.
The Introduction of the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
The key change to the 2014 Cruze lineup is the introduction of the Cruze Diesel. It is equipped with a 2.0 L turbo diesel four-cylinder engine which rates at 33 miles per gallon. While it is slightly more expensive out of the box than its primary competitor, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, it also includes more standard features such as remote starting and leather seating. When all things are considered the base prices become essentially the same.
Body Styles/Trim Levels for the 2014 Chevrolet Cruz
Including the diesel, there are five trim levels for the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze. The LS features 16 inch steel wheels, OnStar, keyless entry, air-conditioning, six way adjustable driver seat, full power accessories, and a 60/40 split folding rear seat. The next step up is the LT (which includes 2 sub-sets the LT1 and LT2). Overall, the LT upgrades to a 1.4 liter turbocharged gasoline engine, 16 inch alloy wheels, and cruise control. The same features are also available in the Eco’s Driver Convenience package.
The Eco Cruze time level is equipped like the 1LT however it includes the MyLink interface. It also features several aerodynamic improvements, such as a rear spoiler, lighter 17 inch alloy wheels, and low rolling resistance tires. One thing to keep in mind as it also has a smaller fuel tank. The Enhance Safety package can be added to any trim level except the LS model. It adds rear park assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alerts. There is also a hard drive-based navigation system, sunroof, and Pioneer nine speaker premium sound system.
The Cruze Diesel comes with all of the 2LT model equipment as well as Eco model’s aerodynamic enhancements. Compared to the 1LT, the 2LT adds a power driver seat, sport tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, heated front seats, leather upholstery, and MyLink touchscreen interface.
Interior Features
The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze seats five comfortably. The overall interior is extremely quiet, even for a smaller car. One common critique is that the front seats may not be wide enough however the overall cabin space is significantly larger than many of its competitors.
The standard interior features include 10 airbags, a six speaker CD audio system, and USB/auxiliary jacks. There is also satellite radio capability built-in as well as Bluetooth phone connectivity. There are also a variety of additional features which can be added through various trim levels and upgrades. Some of the most popular include rearview camera, rear park assist, blind spot monitoring, cruise control, power sunroof, and a 7 inch touchscreen navigation.
The final key aspect of the interior features for the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze is the cargo area. In total, the base package has 15 cubic feet of trunk space, although the manual transmission models add an additional .4 cubic feet. The diesel option has a slightly smaller trunk at 13.3 cubic feet. Additionally, the diesel engine requires an exhaust treatment system which is reliant on diesel exhaust fluid. This is a chemical which reacts with potential pollutants to make them less harmful omissions. Unfortunately, this must be refilled roughly every 10,000 miles.
Performance
All 2014 Chevrolet Cruze vehicles are front-wheel-drive. The overall acceleration time is slightly slower than the average time for a class, however the diesel option is just as fast as the comparable Jetta TDI. Numerous reviewers have stated that this vehicle offers and a comfortable ride with secure handling, although the base four-cylinder engine can be a little weak during acceleration. For its class it still features plenty of power. Unfortunately, due to the lower horsepower and torque, compared to competitors, the gas powered Chevrolet Cruze is far from the fastest and most agile car in its class.
Overall Value
Historically, the longer a car model goes without a redesign, the better deals you end up finding on it. The Chevrolet Cruze has been selling very well. While the slightly higher cost of a more fuel-efficient trim level may push some people away, this practice is becoming normal for this type of car and the more expensive trim levels definitely deliver in terms of overall fuel efficiency. While its base model is slightly more expensive than average, the amount of standard features, compared to competitors, justifies the higher price.
