There are four trim levels for the 2017 Chevy Cruze: the L, LS, LT, and Premier. The L comes with 15-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, Bluetooth connectivity, and plenty of convenient technology. The LS has several optional packages not seen on the L, while the LT adds 16-inch alloy wheels, LED running lights, cruise control, an upgraded six-speaker audio system, and more. Finally, the top-level Cruze Premier offers 18-inch wheels, a gauge driver information display, sunroof, ambient interior lighting, and more, along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and remote starting included.
The 2017 Cruze has a very charming design, with narrow, upward-sweeping headlights. Color choices are simple silver or black options on the base L, but flashier options are added higher up the trims, including bright blues and reds. Heated side mirrors are standard on the LT. A rear spoiler, splash guards, and wheel locks are all available on the LT and Premier.
All versions of the 2017 Cruze use a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque with continuously variable valve timing. This engine pairs to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The highest fuel economy ratings are in automatic models, reaching 30 city mpg and 40 highway mpg. There is only a one-two mile per gallon difference on other configurations, so drivers should not feel pressured to choose the most efficient powertrain.
The 2016 Cruze L uses the manual transmission, the LS and LT can use either the manual or automatic, and the top-level Premier is automatic only. The ratio of torque over horsepower gives the lightweight Cruze a very spirited driving style, able to keep up in either stop and go traffic or let loose on the highway. Comfortable front bucket seats are standard, and keep the front occupants comfortable during long road trips.
Of the 2017 Cruze’s many strong points, it stands tallest in technology and interior quality. At base, each Cruze comes with a seven-inch central touchscreen and four-speaker audio system, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, a rearview camera, and full mobile device streaming with both Apple and Android devices. The Cruze also beats several competitors when it comes to rear seat leg room. Heated front seats and an eight-way power driver seat are both optional on the LT and standard on the Premier. The Cruze offers a spacious 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 47.2 with the seats down.
Like other 2017 Chevy models, the Cruze has an all-new Teen Driver mode. This mode tracks driver behavior and creates a status report on things like anti-lock brake activations, speeding, overly loud music volume, and other bad driving habits. All Cruze models also come with ten air bags and a StabiliTrak electronic stability control system. Optional active safety features include rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and more.
