- Doors and Seats
4 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
1.8i, 4 cyl.
- Engine Power
104kW, 176Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (91) 7L/100KM
- Manufacturer
FWD
- Transmission
Manual
- Warranty
3 Yr, 100000 KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
2010 Holden Cruze Review
The Holden Cruze continues its head-to-head rivalry with small car veterans.
- Nice handling, comfortable
- Turbo lag, visibility, intrusive engine noise
The introduction of the Holden Cruze CDX diesel takes the Cruze model tally to four; a 1.8-litre CD, 2.0-litre CD, 1.8-litre CDX and more recently the 2.0-litre CDX. And these four models populate the very crowded small car segment, which is home to some 28 vehicles under $40,000, where sales figures are dominated by a few worthy contenders; Hyundai i30, Mazda3, Mitsuibishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla and since June 2009, the Holden Cruze.
The Holden Cruze diesel calls in some additional bling as it continues its rivalry with small car veterans such as the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla.
Powered by a 2.0-litre turbo diesel, four-cylinder engine, the Holden Cruze puts out 110kW at 4,000rpm and 320Nm at 2,000rpm. The 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine is mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
The exterior of the Cruze CDX is nicely proportioned and comes garnished with enough chrome to add some visual appeal, and to distinguish it from its lower spec siblings. Chrome insert door handles, fog lights and seventeen-inch alloy wheels are nice exterior upgrades.
There’s a lovely flow to the interior design, which gives out a mature, sophisticated appearance. Our vehicle was fitted with full leather, which is a little cheap in its look and feel. I think the cloth trim on offer in the CD is a better finish.
The 2.0-litre turbo diesel of the Holden Cruze has good power. And once you come to terms with the awkward lag from stand still, you’ll find the power of the Cruze quite satisfying. The Cruze claims to move from 0-100km per hour in 10.4 seconds. As your speed increases, the engine comes into lovely form. Cruising at freeway speeds, the Holden Cruze feels solid and is responsive, and capable when overtaking. Switching to manual gear select gives you that extra control when needed. The difference in haste is noticeable.
The sluggish take-offs of the Holden Cruze are compounded by a loud, intrusive diesel chug. At idle and low speeds, this noise rudely invades your otherwise plush and comfortable cabin. As your speed increases, this noise is far less obvious, but around town, the chug is wearing on the senses.
The driving position and cabin comfort are good for both driver and front passenger. Manual adjust seats are a disappointing moment for this range topping vehicle. They are heated however.
The large pillars – front, side and rear – hinder driver visibility. I found myself constantly looking around the pillars. This was of particular concern in tight cornering.
The Holden Cruze boasts a five-star ANCAP rating, with six airbags - front, side and curtain – as well as electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control and brake assist all as standard.