Exploring the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze: A Compact Car with Big Appeal
The compact car market has seen its fair share of contenders, but the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze stands out as a balanced, reliable, and efficient option for drivers seeking practicality without sacrificing style or technology. With multiple trims, fuel-efficient engine choices, and a reputation for comfort, the Cruze is a compelling choice in its class. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the features, performance, design, and overall value of the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze.
Overview of the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze builds on the success of its predecessors, offering drivers a well-rounded compact car that caters to commuters, families, and young professionals alike. Available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, the Cruze provides flexibility for those needing extra cargo space or a more traditional vehicle design. The 2019 model year also introduced a few updates, including a revised front-end design and the discontinuation of the manual transmission option. Key highlights include body styles in sedan and hatchback, trims such as L, LS, LT, Premier, and Diesel, engine options like a 1.4L turbocharged gas engine or a 1.6L turbo-diesel engine, transmissions that include a 6-speed automatic for the gas engine and a 9-speed automatic for the diesel, fuel economy of up to 48 mpg highway for the diesel, and the standard Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with a 7-inch touchscreen.
Exterior Design
The 2019 Cruze boasts a sleek, modern design that exudes a sense of refinement. Chevrolet updated the front fascia with a sharper grille and headlight design, giving the car a more aggressive and stylish appearance. Both the sedan and hatchback models feature clean lines and aerodynamic curves, which contribute to the Cruze’s efficiency and contemporary look. Notable exterior features include LED signature lighting standard on higher trims, wheel options ranging from 15-inch steel wheels on base trims to 18-inch machined-aluminum wheels on the Premier trim, and the hatchback versatility offering a sportier aesthetic with increased cargo capacity.
Interior Comfort and Features
Chevrolet designed the Cruze’s interior to provide comfort and functionality, making it an excellent choice for long commutes and road trips. The cabin materials are high-quality for the class, with soft-touch surfaces and well-placed controls. The Cruze offers seating for up to five passengers, and the hatchback model boasts a surprising amount of cargo space for a compact car. Interior features include the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Comfortable seating options include available leather-appointed seats with heated options for both front and rear passengers on higher trims. The sedan provides 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space, while the hatchback offers up to 47.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Convenience features include keyless entry and push-button start on select trims, wireless charging and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot as available upgrades, and multiple USB ports along with a high-quality audio system to enhance the driving experience.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze offers two engine options, catering to drivers who prioritize efficiency or prefer a balance of power and economy. The 1.4L turbocharged gas engine delivers 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, with a fuel economy of up to 38 mpg highway, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine provides smooth acceleration and is well-suited for daily driving, offering enough power to confidently merge onto highways or navigate city streets. The 1.6L turbo-diesel engine delivers 137 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, with a fuel economy of up to 48 mpg highway, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This engine is particularly appealing for long-distance commuters and eco-conscious drivers. The Cruze offers a composed ride, with a suspension system that absorbs bumps and ensures a comfortable driving experience. The steering is responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces or on winding roads.
Trims and Customization
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze is available in five trims, each offering a distinct set of features to cater to different preferences and budgets. The L base trim starts at approximately $17,995 and includes essentials like the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, a rearview camera, and cloth seating. The LS trim starts at approximately $19,120 and adds features like carpeted floor mats, upgraded interior materials, and more customization options. The LT trim starts at approximately $21,720 and includes cruise control, LED daytime running lights, and an upgraded 6-speaker audio system. The Premier trim, which is the top trim, starts at approximately $24,020 and features leather-appointed seating, a power driver’s seat, and advanced safety options. The Diesel trim starts at approximately $25,620 and focuses on efficiency, with the turbo-diesel engine and additional comfort features.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Chevrolet places a strong emphasis on safety, and the 2019 Cruze is no exception. The car comes equipped with a range of standard and available safety features to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and stability and traction control systems. Available advanced safety features include forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. The Cruze earned solid safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, making it a reliable choice for families and safety-conscious buyers.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze excels in fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective option for daily commutes and long-distance travel. The turbocharged gas engine delivers respectable mileage, while the diesel engine sets a benchmark for efficiency in the compact car segment. EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 1.4L turbo gas engine is 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, while the 1.6L turbo-diesel engine offers 31 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. With these numbers, the Cruze is an excellent choice for drivers who want to save money at the pump without compromising performance.
Competitors
In the crowded compact car segment, the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze competes with several notable rivals. The Honda Civic offers more powerful engine options and sportier handling but comes at a slightly higher price. The Toyota Corolla is known for its legendary reliability and includes advanced safety features as standard but lacks the diesel engine option. The Hyundai Elantra provides competitive pricing and an impressive warranty but falls slightly behind in interior refinement compared to the Cruze.
Pros and Cons
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze offers several advantages, including a sleek exterior design with hatchback versatility, impressive fuel economy, a comfortable and well-equipped interior, and competitive pricing. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as the discontinuation of the manual transmission, a base trim that lacks some modern features, and rivals that offer sportier performance.
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze the Right Car for You?
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze is an excellent choice for drivers who value efficiency, comfort, and technology in a compact car. Whether you’re a commuter looking to save on gas or a small family in need of a reliable vehicle, the Cruze delivers on multiple fronts. While it may not be the sportiest option in its class, its practicality and value make it a standout contender. Ideal buyers include commuters seeking a fuel-efficient and comfortable ride, young professionals needing a stylish and affordable car, and families requiring a compact car with modern features and safety technology.
Reliability and Maintenance
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze has a reputation for reliability, making it a solid choice for drivers seeking a low-maintenance compact car. With proper care and regular maintenance, the Cruze can deliver years of dependable performance. Chevrolet offers a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing added peace of mind for buyers. Routine maintenance costs for the Cruze are affordable compared to rivals, and the widespread availability of Chevrolet service centers ensures easy access to professional care. Features like the built-in OnStar system can also help with vehicle diagnostics and maintenance reminders, keeping drivers informed about their car’s needs.
Resale Value
Compact cars like the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze are known for holding their value well in the used car market, and the Cruze is no exception. Its balance of features, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a pre-owned vehicle. The availability of both sedan and hatchback options enhances its appeal to different types of buyers, contributing positively to its resale value. While some competitors, such as the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, may slightly edge it out in long-term depreciation rates, the Cruze offers an excellent combination of affordability and value retention.
Road Trip Appeal
The Cruze is a fantastic option for road trips, thanks to its excellent fuel economy, comfortable interior, and advanced tech features. The hatchback model, in particular, shines for travelers, offering ample cargo space for luggage, camping gear, or other essentials. The available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot ensures that passengers stay connected during long drives, while optional heated seats and an upgraded audio system add a touch of luxury to the journey. With its smooth ride and quiet cabin, the Cruze makes hours on the road enjoyable for both drivers and passengers.
Urban Versatility
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze is an excellent car for city living, offering compact dimensions that make parking and maneuvering through tight spaces a breeze. The sedan’s stylish design adds an air of sophistication to urban commutes, while the hatchback’s practicality appeals to those who need more flexibility in their daily lives. Advanced features like a rearview camera and available blind-spot monitoring are especially useful for navigating busy city streets. Additionally, its impressive fuel economy reduces the cost of stop-and-go traffic, making the Cruze a wallet-friendly choice for urban drivers.
Environmental Impact
The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze’s fuel-efficient engines, especially the diesel option, contribute to its environmentally friendly credentials. With fewer emissions than many larger vehicles and a diesel model achieving up to 48 mpg on the highway, the Cruze stands out as a smart choice for eco-conscious drivers. Chevrolet’s efforts to incorporate lightweight materials and aerodynamic designs also help reduce the Cruze’s carbon footprint. While it isn’t a hybrid or electric vehicle, its efficiency aligns well with the needs of drivers who want to reduce their environmental impact without switching to alternative fuel sources.
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