In this TFLcar ‘mega mashup’ review, Roman drives and compares two of the leaders in the compact category against the all-new 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Watch the video and see how the 2016 Honda Civic and 2017 Hyundai Elantra, both with fresh designs, match up against the Cruze.
There are no less than 22 models in the compact car category, and that equates to a lot of choices for the consumer. GM is aiming high for the redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Cruze and feels it can be more than just rental car fodder when closely compared to the segment leaders such as the Honda Civic, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, and VW Golf to name a few.
The new Chevrolet Cruze is a big step forward moving past the outgoing model. It has a roomy backseat, better fuel economy, and is available with a full complement of safety and upgraded technology. The aesthetically pleasing design sits atop a lighter chassis that is 27 percent more rigid than the previous generation model. The standard engine for the 2016 Cruze is a 153-horsepower 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that will get up to 42 mpg on the highway.
Chosen by Chevrolet for a direct comparison to the new Cruze is the 2017 Hyundai Elantra and 2016 Honda Civic. The redesigned Elantra features a sharp looking design, a more refined cabin, and a long list of available tech. Value has always been a hallmark for Hyundai and the overhauled 2017 Elantra packs good fuel economy, a roomier cabin, and loads of available safety and creature comfort into a car that deserves some serious consideration that comes with a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty.
Leading the compact car segment is the redesigned 2016 Honda Civic. This is one of the best compact cars on the market and boasts responsive handling, a handsomely designed cabin, generous passenger and cargo space, and a stylish exterior. The Civic’s base 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivers adequate power, but the optional turbocharged 1.5-liter four-banger is a lot more satisfying. The 2016 Civic gets an EPA-estimated 31/41 mpg (city/highway) with the base engine and CVT automatic transmission. The turbocharged Civics are rated at 31/42 mpg according to EPA estimates.
| 2016 CHEVROLET CRUZE LT | 2016 HONDA CIVIC EX | 2017 HYUNDAI ELANTRA SE | |
| Price as tested | $22,685 | $21,875 | $20,600 |
| Engine | 1.4L turbo inline 4-cylinder | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Power (hp) | 153 @ 5,600 rpm | 158 @ 6,500 rpm | 147 @ 6,200 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 177 @ 2,000 – 4,000 rpm | 138 @ 4.200 rpm | 132 @ 4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT or 6-speed AT | CVT | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain layout | front engine / front-wheel-drive | front engine / front-wheel drive | front engine / front-wheel drive |
| Curb weight | 2,932 lbs. (LT automatic) | 2,795 lbs. | 2812 lbs. |
| EPA-estimated fuel economy (city/hwy) | 29/41 (MT), 30/42 (AT) | 31/41 mpg | 28/37 mpg |
