2011 Chevrolet Cruze Test Drive & Full Review

The mid-size family segment, or C-segment, is a very crowded one in which established models like Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis, and Nissan Sylphy have a loyal following, while fellow Japanese models such as Mazda 3 and Mitsubishi Lancer are there for anyone seeking something different. For Malaysians wanting to break out of the Japanese mould, there is the American Ford Focus sedan, French Peugeot 308, Korean Hyundai i30 and Kia Forte, and now the Chevrolet Cruze.

The tendency of Malaysian car buyers to overwhelmingly favour well-known brands in a “better safe-than-sorry” approach means that many cars offering excellent qualities and superb value-for-money do not even get on the shortlist of car buyers. So, while the Cruze has won us over with its attractive styling, a solid cabin, well-judged ride-and-handling, excellent refinement, the segment's first six-speed gearbox, a comprehensive equipment list and a price that undercuts many rivals', it is not likely to secure much sales due to the lack of confidence in the Chevrolet brand and its dealer network.

Without a strong dealer presence and a model range that remained unchanged for years, the Chevrolet brand languished under the distributorship of DRB-Hicom. On the other hand, the new official distributor, Naza, appears more aggressive, expanding the dealer network and promising to bring in the latest models. With Naza's financial muscle and brilliant track record in turning around stuttering car franchises (Kia, Peugeot), we believe the Chevrolet brand can be rejuvenated given time. Until then, however, the Cruze is unlikely to receive the attention it deserves nor bag the sales it ought to.

Read the Chevrolet Cruze full review and enjoy the gallery of official photos!