2019 Chevrolet Cruze Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Chevrolet introduced the second generation of its successful Cruze compact car for the 2016 model year and added a hatchback variant the...

Chevrolet introduced the second generation of its successful Cruze compact car for the 2016 model year and added a hatchback variant the following year. For 2019, all versions get a mid-cycle update along with several options.

The front end of the standard Cruze has been tweaked significantly. The lower grille aperture is much larger and both the upper and lower portions merge at a narrow silver band of trim. Models with the RS package include new simulated grille openings on either side of the main grille, black Chevrolet badges front and rear, and black window molding. As before, RS hatchback models get a rear bumper diffuser and exposed exhaust tip. Rounding up the exterior changes are new wheel designs all around. Inside, the Cruze gets additional interior color choices.

The Cruze sedan comes in the same L, LS, LT, and Premier grades as previously. The hatchback adds an LS variant for the first time and carries on with the LT and Premier trims. The L now comes with an automatic transmission, 15-inch steel wheels, Bluetooth technology, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The other grades add features like 60/40 split-folding seats, alloy wheels, wireless charging, keyless access and start, leather upholstery, a sunroof, projector headlights with LED lighting, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. All 2019 models get a new infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, starting with a standard 7-inch setup and moving to an 8-inch unit on nicer models.

As before, both sedan and hatchback Cruze models are front-wheel drive (FWD) and are available with one of two powertrains. The base setup is a turbocharged 1.4-liter inline 4-cylinder unit with 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic and standard start/stop. It can deliver fuel economy as high as 29 mpg city, 39 highway, and 36 combined. Buyers choosing the LT or Premier who are looking for more range and fuel economy can opt for the turbocharged 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder diesel engine and 9-speed automatic. This combo is good for 137 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque, plus 41, 47, and 41, with 702 miles of range. Notably, the Cruze no longer offers a manual transmission with either engine.

A reversing camera comes standard on all Cruze models. The LT and Premier trims are available with Driver Confidence I, which bundles rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-change alert. Premier buyers can add Driver Confidence II and get automatic high beams, follow distance indication, forward-collision alert, pedestrian braking, low-speed automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist.

The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze is among the most competent compact cars on the market. Its timely 2019 facelift will keep it looking fresh until the next full redesign. It hits dealerships later this year.