What are we Testing?
We had the Holden Cruze CDX 2.0L CRD mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission. The CDX Cruze has a MLP of $29,990
What’s its Purpose?
European styled economical transport for four in comfort.
What’s Good & Not so Good?
What’s Good?
What is not so Good?
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Awkward boot shape and narrow entry
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Height adjustable steering only
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Head room in back seat restrictive
Outside
The Cruze CDX has a wide track and long wheelbase and with 'four-door coupe' styling delivers the presence of an upscale mid-size sedan with high levels of quality, fit and finish. It has heaps of appeal ad people everywhere commented on its looks. It just seems to have something, even to the Gen ‘Y’ group. The 17inch alloys, front fog lamps and colour coded bumpers all add to the appeal.
Inside, Comfort & Features
The front heated seats are contoured heated leather 6 ways electrically adjustable and very comfortable. In front of you is a thick rimmed leather steering wheel with audio and cruise controls that frames a clever designed ice blue dash illumination with three dials. There is more than enough leg room for the driver in fact it is one of the few cars that I actually don’t have the seat all the way back. Power windows all round compliments the quality feel.
Overall the internal layout is well though out with plenty of storage including 60/40 split rear seats, seatback pockets, centre console CD storage, shopping bag hook and six-cup holders. An integrated centre stack houses the infotainment display, radio MP3 connectivity and HVAC controls
The rear seats are comfortable for two and a touch of a squeeze for three. However leg room, shoulder room are good for this class of vehicle. Headroom is a little restricted for taller passengers but it will carry 5 in comfort. Just don’t try and take away luggage for five, as the boot is not built for it.
Safety
The Cruze CDX has a 5 star ANCAP safety rating and includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TC), Brake Assist (BA), Six airbags including, Front airbags for driver and front passenger, Front side impact airbags, Side curtain airbags and Collapsible pedal assembly system
Performance. Engine, Transmission & Suspension etc
The 2.0 litre common rail turbocharged diesel engine produces 110kW of power and 320Nm of torque and 90 per cent of the torque is available from 1750 to 3500 rpm. The engine mates pretty well to the 6-spd automatic although there is some lag below 1500rpm. It provides adequate acceleration but is very effective in the mid range around town and effortless on the freeways.
The Cruze handles pretty well with a little bit of understeer when pushed but absorbs the bumps and dips and keeps a stable path. Steering is direct and with good feel.
Holden's Cruze CDX Diesel 6 spd automatic combines all the ingredients to make it a huge success. Surprisingly good looks, plenty of room inside, 5 star ANCAP safety rating, lots of features, leather seats, good performance and great economy all bundled into a well-priced package.
All this at a MLP of $29,990 they should and do sell heaps of them.
Family Cars - Small & Medium 
