Folks,

I'm delighted to share my initial ownership experience of Cruze LTZ AT. I hope my write up will help people who are contemplating buying this car.

Previous Ownership

• Maruti Omni (1998 - 42K kms)
• Matiz SA (2002 - 48K kms)
• NHC CVT (2006 - 35K kms)
• Fiesta 1.6 SXI (2006 - 71K kms, which I still possess)

Requirements

Was looking for a car in the 15 - 25 lakh category with class-leading performance & features. Was particular about Automatic Transmission to replace NHC CVT. Diesel was desirable but not essential.

Other Cars considered

• Honda Civic (Didn't find it value for money)
• Corolla Altis (No matter what more Toyota adds to this car, I will never feel kicked about it. Its too dull for my liking.)
• Skoda Laura 2.0 L&K (I'm not crazy enough to spend 20 lakhs and lose my peace of mind)
• Jetta (I might have picked up this car if it was a couple of lakhs cheaper)

Booking & delivery

Booked the car with Kropex, Hosur Road, Bangalore on 27-Jan and got the delivery on 22-May. Don't blame the Dealership for delivery delay, it was more of GM's inefficiency in capacity planning. During the waiting period, the car price shot up from Rs. 16.51 lakhs to Rs. 17.14 lakhs.

Things I liked

• Looks (With an imposing stance, the car looks awesome from almost every angle. The cockpit-like design of the central console and dashboard layout is a treat to the eyes)
• Engine (This is my first diesel car. But my transition my petrol to diesel was super smooth with this ultra refined / silent engine)
• Driving convenience (Automatic transmission and Cruise control just works perfect for me)
• Economy (Has given me an average of 12.2 kmpl thus far with 100% A/C on. It is consistently improving with use.)
• Breaking system (The Disk brakes, ABS & EBD work very well together to provide fantastic balance during deceleration)
• Features such as PEPS, Automatic Climate Control, Driver's information, etc.,
• Power & Torque (Should only be experienced and not put in words. The acceleration was just unbelievable. I touched a max speed on 212 kmph (during test drive) on the NICE road and held on it for 30+ seconds on the Mysore Road to Magadi Road stretch and was in complete control. Even my wife who hardly drives did 160 kmph and was on top of things)

Things I didn't like

• Interior Plastic quality (I wonder why GM failed to deliver in this department. The steering in my Fiesta 1.6 SXI (at half the price) feels a lot better to hold. The door pockets with sharp edges, the height and recline adjusters are pathetic to say the least.)
• Handling (I wish I'd some magical power to replace it with my Fiesta at every corner)

Minor Grouses

• When polished the dashboard reflects in the wind-shield causing some discomfort to the eyes
• The headlights should've been more powerful
• can't comprehend why GM hasn't provided a dead-pedal

Overall Impression

Have done around 1,300 kms so far and am thoroughly pleased with the car. It is a true highway star. You can chose to either cruise smoothly or drive hard, it can cater to both the requirements pretty well. It provides a perfect blend of power, economy and comfort. Everyone in the family is absolutely delighted with what we've got for the price. I would certainly give it 8 on a scale of 10. Just drive it to believe it.

Cheers,
Naren

During the waiting period, the car price shot up from Rs. 16.51 lakhs to Rs. 17.14 lakhs.

Originally Posted by rohan_iitr (Post 1948671) One silly question - Why is dead pedal required in AT ?

Originally Posted by prince_pervez (Post 1948607) Congratulations Narendra on your new purchase. I loved the car but, would have preferred this one in a light golden color. I feel for a full size sedan that color suits the best. Drive safe mate.