An arching roofline, extending from the steeply raked windshield into the slim rear pillars, is the defining exterior feature of Chevrolet Cruze. Combined with a relatively short rear deck, it brings four-door coupé-like looks to this market segment for the first time.
Wider and longer than its predecessor, Chevrolet Cruze has a well-planted, close-to-the-ground stance with its wheels located at the outer edges of the tautly drawn bodywork. A distinctive concave shoulder line flows along the sides of the car into the rear deck lid and is set to become a new signature Chevy design feature. The upscale visual appearance is also reinforced by clean, uncluttered bodywork free from moldings or trim.
The signature dual-port grille carries Chevy's gold bowtie with a new air of self-confidence. It is flanked by distinctive headlamp housings, with 'jewel-effect' detailing, that sweep up, arrow-like, to a point in the front fenders. Neat rear styling includes flush-mounted tail light clusters, each molded with two circular shapes, echoing a traditional Chevy twin light styling motif.
The svelte looks are backed by a competitive 0.31 co-efficient of drag and a build quality with attention to detail typical of products costing far more. A best-in-class fit and finish for panel gaps and shut-lines contribute to the quality, 'hewn from solid' appearance.
"This is a car with a strong, upscale character and a great stance," adds Taewan Kim. "We think it will stand out among its competitors."
Interior Design and Features
Conveying a sporty yet warm ambience, the five-seater cabin is typified by harmonious, flowing lines and the application of grained, soft-touch materials. It is a high quality execution that transcends the compact value segment.
Class-leading features include the flush fit of panels, with exceptionally tight gap tolerances, and generous rear passenger leg, head and shoulder room, despite Chevrolet Cruze's signature sloping roofline.
The core interior design theme is a modern expression of a traditional Chevy styling cue - the signature 'twin cockpit' layout of the Corvette, a motif designed to bringing driver and passenger closer to a 'shared' experience. On each side of the main fascia, there is a choice of colored fabric or grained vinyl panels, which are complemented by matching inserts in the seats and door trims.
The center point for the 'dual cockpit' symmetry is a neatly integrated center stack, housing the infotainment and air conditioning displays and controls. It is mounted at a shallow angle and has a flowing, free form which eliminates straight lines and the traditional 'picture framing' of panels.
Three-dimensional math modeling was used in the design of the main instrument cluster. The analogue dials are backlit by LED for clear, crisp illumination in white and ice blue.
Compared to the seats of its predecessor, the main improvements for Chevrolet Cruze are the use of a wire mesh construction to distribute weight more evenly, a firmer foam filling and deeper bolstering for the cushions and seat-backs, front and rear.
The fabric upholstery includes high quality French seam stitching that provides excellent durability and eliminates the possibility of a 'stretched-seam' appearance over time. Leather upholstery, with heated front seats, is an option for the top LT specification.
The range of fore/aft adjustment for the front seats has been extended by approximately 50 mm, giving the longest travel in the value compact segment.
