Photo Gallery:
2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4
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Although I reviewed a diesel last week, the price-point was a put-off for a lot of our readers. This week I’m in a vehicle that is one-third the cost of last week’s BMW 535d tester – the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel.
This is GM’s answer to Volkswagen’s long-standing TDI lineup of Jettas and Golfs with a modern turbodiesel engine. Unfortunately this engine uses urea injection to meet emissions control while the smaller VWs do not – but it is a small niggle and typically only needs to be filled during oil changes.
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What is really surprising here is what is standard on this vehicle. It starts with leather-appointed seats, six-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, cruise control, remote keyless entry, remote vehicle start and an auxiliary electric heater. Also standard on the diesel is a rear-view camera and the Aero package, which includes: lower front grille with air shutters and unique front air dam, mid-body aero panels and rear spoiler.
The engine is a 2.0L turbocharged diesel and is mated to a standard six-speed automatic transmission. My tester is equipped with the optional convenience package and enhanced safety package which add blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
If you buy a Cruze Diesel you get all the goodies, so this car is pretty loaded and it come out to under $28,000 including destination. Which makes me wonder where is the “bare-boned” diesel for those who are just looking to reduce fuel consumption?
Pricing: 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
Base price: $24,945
Options: Convenience Package ($180), Enhanced safety package ($885), Oil pan heater($100)
Freight/PDI: $1,600
A/C Tax: $100
As-tested price: $27,810
Competitors:
Honda Civic Hybrid
Volkswagen Jetta TDI
Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
For more information on Chevrolet and the Cruze visit GM Canada
