2015 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel VIDEO REVIEW

Hear that? That’s a sound you haven’t heard from a Chevy car in a while. In my 17 years of test drives this is the first American car I’ve had with a Diesel engine. But the headline here is 46mpg highway and it comes courtesy of the Chevy Cruze.

When 50-state compliant diesel engines began showing up a few years ago, the push was primarily engineered by the VW Group. Gas prices were sky high and alt fuel vehicles were in consumers’ minds.

So Chevy decided to see how a small diesel-powered car would do against competitors’ hybrids and other diesel models. Now in its 2^nd year, Chevy’s best-selling global car with a 2.0-liter clean turbo-diesel is the choice for about one out of every 10 Cruze buyers in the U.S. GM’s unreliable diesel models from the 80s left Americans with a negative impression of this gasoline alternative but with so many advancements in the technology since then, diesel cars nowadays are no more of a concern than any other propulsion you may choose.

So why go Cruze Diesel? It’s all about fuel economy and torque with secondary considerations given to a diesel engine’s reputation for longevity. In this case, the engine was specifically adapted for the U.S. market, meeting stringent emission standards while producing peak torque of 264 pound-feet that gives this Cruze an instant on feeling when you press the go pedal, particularly impressive in passing maneuvers on the highway. Don’t measure this engine’s strength by its mediocre 0-to-60mph time of about 8.5 seconds; it has the low-end gumption drivers appreciate when stepping off. As for the efficiency angle, as paired with the only available transmission – this 6-speed auto – the city/highway spread of 19mpg is greater than that of any other new vehicle. Rated at 27mpg city/46mpg highway and 33mpg combined, the Cruze Diesel’s return on investment will greatly depend on where you drive most of the time. I averaged 35mpg for the week and during a highway run from NYC to Albany I managed over 45mpg. So unlike some other alternative powertrains, the impressive diesel mileage numbers are once again for real.

The most obvious difference between the Cruze Diesel and the Jetta TDI is the clatter heard from the engine. VW really knows how to mute the typical diesel sounds while Chevy makes it loud and proud. Does that bother me? Well, it’s a little off-putting and everyone who stands near it or rides in it instantly noticed but I’m sure to some diesel aficionados it sounds like a badge of honor.

It’s also not a sporty car when running on these fuel-saving tires, instead it promotes comfortable cruising – diesel sounds and all. There were also occasions where the 6-speed felt confused.

The Cruze debuts an updated front fascia this year with LED daytime running lights and the Diesel model comes with a rear spoiler, an aero performance package and ultra low-rolling resistance tires. Inside, Apple Siri integration is a welcome addition as is OnStar with 4G, not 3G, built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The sport mesh trim used around the cabin is a unique look and though the next generation Cruze will debut shortly as a 2016 model, this car has maintained its premium composure quite well with features such as a back-up cam, side blind zone and rear cross traffic alert the very agreeable Chevy MyLink system with navigation. Remote start is always appreciated, too. And as long as the folks in the front aren’t too long legged, the rear seats are useable and are elevated for better forward visibility.

Priced as the premium model in the Cruze lineup from $26,485 and stickered here for $29,105, the Cruze Diesel’s nemesis is the gas fueled Cruze Eco which the EPA estimates costs $100 less per year to fuel with the culprit being the high cost of diesel vs. a gallon of regular.

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