Are you in the market for a reliable compact car? The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze might be on your radar, but is it really a good choice? With so many options available, it can be tough to know if this model stands out from the crowd.
Imagine cruising down the highway in a vehicle that combines comfort, efficiency, and style. This article will break down the key features, performance, and overall value of the 2016 Cruze, giving you the insights you need to make an informed decision. By the end, you’ll know if this car is the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Impressive Fuel Efficiency: The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze offers remarkable fuel economy, achieving up to 42 mpg on the highway and nearly 48 mpg with the diesel engine option.
- Safety First: With a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, the Cruze features advanced safety technologies such as stability control and forward collision alert for enhanced driver confidence.
- Comfortable Interior: The spacious cabin includes 36.1 inches of rear-seat legroom and 14.8 cubic feet of trunk space, making it suitable for both daily commutes and long trips.
- Variety of Trims: The Cruze comes in multiple trims (L, LS, LT, and Premier), allowing buyers to choose configurations that best fit their needs and budgets.
- User-Friendly Technology: Equipped with a standard 7-inch touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity, the Cruze enhances connectivity and entertainment while driving.
- Performance Considerations: While the Cruze excels in fuel efficiency and comfort, it may fall short in power compared to some rivals, with its base engine producing 153 horsepower.
Overview of the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze stands out as a compact car that combines efficiency and comfort. It offers various features that cater to daily driving needs while maintaining a stylish appearance.
Key Specifications
The 2016 Cruze boasts impressive specifications that appeal to many drivers:
- Engine Options: The base 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 153 horsepower. An optional 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine delivers 137 horsepower, emphasizing fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: Expect up to 42 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission and 38 mpg with the manual, showcasing its economical design.
- Transmission: A six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission is available, offering flexibility in driving preferences.
- Interior Space: The Cruze provides 14.8 cubic feet of trunk space, accommodating grocery bags or luggage easily.
- Safety Ratings: The Cruze received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), ensuring peace of mind on the road.
Available Trims
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze comes in several trims, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences:
- L Trim: Basic features include 16-inch wheels, a rearview camera, and a four-speaker sound system.
- LS Trim: Adds convenience with keyless entry and upgraded upholstery.
- LT Trim: Enhances the driving experience with a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility.
- Premier Trim: Comes fully loaded with premium features like leather upholstery, a six-speaker sound system, and advanced safety features like forward collision alert.
These trims allow you to choose the perfect Cruze model that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Performance and Handling
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze offers a smooth driving experience and responsive handling, making it suitable for various driving conditions.
Engine Options
The Cruze comes equipped with a base 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 153 horsepower. This engine provides solid acceleration for daily commutes and highway driving. An alternative 1.6-liter diesel engine, which produces 137 horsepower, offers more torque for enhanced performance. You can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, allowing flexibility in your driving preference.
Fuel Efficiency
The Cruze excels in fuel efficiency. The 1.4-liter engine achieves up to 42 mpg on the highway, making it an economical choice for long-distance travel. In city driving, you can expect around 30 mpg. If you opt for the 1.6-liter diesel engine, fuel economy improves even further, offering nearly 48 mpg on the highway. This impressive efficiency reduces the frequency of refueling, which adds to the convenience of owning the Cruze, especially for those who drive regularly.
Interior and Comfort
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze offers a comfortable interior filled with thoughtful design and modern technology. Passengers will enjoy a spacious feel, making it suitable for both daily commutes and long road trips.
Cabin Design
The cabin design emphasizes a user-friendly layout. Soft-touch materials enhance the overall feel, while well-placed controls ensure easy access. Rear-seat passengers benefit from ample legroom, measuring 36.1 inches, allowing adult passengers to relax during journeys. The dashboard features a contemporary design with clear gauges and intuitive controls, contributing to a pleasant driving experience.
Technology Features
The Cruze is equipped with several technology features to enhance connectivity and entertainment. Standard options include a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offer additional features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration. These features enable you to access music, navigation, and messages directly through the vehicle’s interface. USB ports are available for charging devices, ensuring you stay connected on the go.
Safety Ratings and Features
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze prioritizes driver and passenger safety. Its strong safety ratings and advanced safety features make it a reliable choice.
Crash Test Ratings
The Cruze scored highly in crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Specific tests showed:
| Test Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash Test | 5 stars |
| Side Crash Test | 5 stars |
| Rollover Resistance Rating | 4 stars |
These ratings indicate that the Cruze provides solid protection in various crash scenarios.
Safety Technologies
The 2016 Cruze includes several safety technologies to enhance driver confidence. Key features include:
- Stability Control: Helps maintain control during slippery conditions.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel locks during hard braking.
- Rearview Camera: Assists when backing up, improving visibility.
- Forward Collision Alert: Warns of potential frontal collisions.
These technologies contribute to a safer driving experience, making the Cruze a formidable option in the compact car market.
Pros and Cons
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze can help you decide if it’s the right car for you.
Advantages of the 2016 Cruze
- Fuel Efficiency: Enjoy remarkable fuel economy, with up to 42 mpg on the highway for the base engine and nearly 48 mpg with the diesel option.
- Interior Comfort: Benefit from a spacious cabin, featuring 36.1 inches of rear-seat legroom and a trunk capacity of 14.8 cubic feet for ample storage.
- Safety Ratings: Appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, along with advanced safety features like a rearview camera and forward collision alert.
- User-Friendly Technology: Access modern technology with a standard 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and audio options that enhance your driving experience.
- Trim Variety: Choose from multiple trims—L, LS, LT, and Premier—allowing you to pick the features that best suit your preferences and budget.
- Performance Limitations: Experience less power compared to some rivals, as the base engine with 153 horsepower may not satisfy those seeking high-performance driving.
- Cabin Noise: Note some reports of audible road noise at higher speeds, potentially detracting from the overall driving experience on the highway.
- Small Engine Option: Understand that while the 1.6-liter diesel engine offers great fuel economy, its lower horsepower might not appeal to everyone seeking a dynamic driving style.
- Infotainment System: Encounter occasional lag with the infotainment system, which may frustrate some users when accessing apps or features.
- Resale Value: Keep in mind that resale values may not be as strong as some competitors, which could affect long-term ownership costs.
Conclusion
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze offers a solid mix of efficiency comfort and safety that makes it a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a compact car. With impressive fuel economy and a spacious interior it caters well to daily driving needs. While it may not be the most powerful option out there its strong safety ratings and user-friendly technology can provide peace of mind on the road.
If you’re looking for a reliable vehicle that balances style and practicality the Cruze could be just what you need. Consider your specific preferences and budget to see if this model fits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze features a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 153 horsepower, exceptional fuel economy (up to 42 mpg highway), and a spacious interior with 14.8 cubic feet of trunk space. It offers various trims (L, LS, LT, and Premier) with features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
How does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze perform in terms of fuel efficiency?
The Cruze is highly efficient, with the 1.4-liter engine achieving up to 42 mpg on the highway. The available 1.6-liter diesel engine offers even better fuel economy, reaching nearly 48 mpg, making it an economical choice for daily driving and long-distance trips.
What safety ratings does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze have?
The 2016 Cruze has an impressive five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It also scored five stars in frontal and side crash tests, with a four-star rating for rollover resistance, highlighting its commitment to passenger safety.
How comfortable is the interior of the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
The Cruze offers a spacious and thoughtfully designed cabin with 36.1 inches of rear-seat legroom. It features soft-touch materials and a modern dashboard layout, making it ideal for both short commutes and extended road trips.
What are the pros and cons of the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
Pros include excellent fuel efficiency, spacious interior, strong safety ratings, and user-friendly technology. Cons may involve less power than rivals, cabin noise at higher speeds, and a potentially slower infotainment system, which may affect some buyers’ decisions.
Ben Wilkinson is a an experienced mechanic with over 10 years of experience in the automotive repair industry. He is highly skilled in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of car-related issues, from basic maintenance tasks to more complex repairs.