By David Bonnici
I’m not sure what the Z stands for, but I like to think it means ‘zippy’. While the Holden Cruze SRi-Z is not quite a hot hatch, it has plenty of pick-me-up from the 1.6L turbo engine.
I drove the automatic version, which is normally a bummer with sporty models, but was amazed at how responsive it was. There was no lag when you put your foot down and the gear changes were seamless, in keeping with the incredibly fluid ride.
It handles OK, too, thanks to the sports suspension that’s firm but nowhere near bone shattering. The six-speed automatic has active gear select to give you a bit more control of the gears, but I never felt the need to use it.
The only downside to this performance is the fuel economy. I averaged about 10.5L/100km with urban driving, which was considerably more than most of its competitors and the published 7.4L/100km combined figure. It did do much better on the open road.
The hatch version I tested is a nice car to look at with its subtle bodykit, fog lights and 18-inch alloy wheels. And it’s notably bigger than most other hatches on the market.
The aesthetics and volume continue inside, with a great-looking leather-trim interior. In typical Holden fashion, the seats are firm but comfortable and there’s plenty of elbowroom. The front seats are heated, which was a nice touch during that recent cold snap.
There’s plenty of storage in the cabin, and the cargo area under the hatch is huge.
In the dark, the dashboard lights up in electric blue, illuminated buttons and 7-inch MyLink touchscreen which features your entertainment, phone, navigation and reverse display.
I reckon MyLink is one of the better in-car entertainment systems in terms of features, usability and fast bluetooth connection, which is almost instantaneous when you push the button to start the car.
The Cruze SRi-Z offers good value for anyone who wants the practicality of a luxurious small car that’s packed with features and provides a bit of zing to spice up your drive. Maybe that’s what the Z stands for.
It is available at Alan Mance Holden, 435 Barkly Street, Footscray.
www.alanmanceholden.com.au.
