Showdown between the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra

The match of the month pits two recently launched compacts against one another. On one side, there’s the new Cruze, which General Motors is really counting on. On the other side, there’s the completely redesigned Hyundai Elantra. The winds of change are starting to blow with the arrival of these two models in the compact category, which the redesigned Ford Focus and Honda Civic will soon join.

Design

No one will be surprised to learn that both models are offering designs that are radically different from the models they’re replacing. Indeed, the Cruze replaces the Cobalt while the Elantra is redefining the…previous generation Elantra. And as is now the trend in this segment, both models feature European lines.

The Chevrolet Cruze is derived directly from the European Opel line, a product that’s already a hit on the Old Continent. Its meticulous presentation, stylized headlights and aggressive look give it a strong presence. The LT version of the Cruze, with its 16-inch rims, doesn’t go unnoticed, and the LTZ turbo, with its 18-inch rims, even less so.
As for the Hyundai Elantra, it has adopted the thus far unanimously admired style of the Sonata. 25 cm longer than its predecessor, the new Elantra has clean lines, oversized headlights and a longer wheelbase to easily set it apart from its rivals.

Mechanics

The two pugilists are pinning their hopes in the same mechanical configuration, namely a 1.8-litre four-cylinder paired with a six-speed transmission (manual or automatic). This type of engine is the norm in this category and provides adequate power while minimizing fuel consumption.

Under the hood of the Chevrolet Cruze LS, the four-cylinder delivers 138 horsepower and 125 lbs-ft of torque, which is more than enough to power the car in most situations. However, when the car is pushed hard or heavily loaded, the horses seem a little short of breath. Hovering at about 9.1 L/100 km, fuel consumption is surprisingly high, especially since the manufacturer is boasting an average of 7.6 L/100 km. The ECO, LT and LTZ versions can be delivered with a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, with which the power remains the same but the torque increases to 148 lbs-ft. Performances are a little livelier and fuel consumption is a little lower. This car is just full of surprises…
The Hyundai Elantra has 148 horses, and these 10 extra horses are very noticeable, especially since the Elantra is a few kilograms lighter than the Cruze. But its performances remain average and are adequate for a car of this size. Its four factory-standard disc brakes do an admirable job. Fuel consumption is published at 6.9 L/100 km in town, while our tests came out with an average of 7.1 L/100 km – which is still better than what we saw with the Chevrolet Cruze. Bottom line: the Elantra’s engine is slightly more dynamic, quieter and more economical than that of the Cruze.

Passenger compartment

In spite of its busy dashboard, the interior of the Chevrolet Cruze merits high marks. At the wheel, the driving position is good. Stealing a page from the European car handbook, the front seats are firm and enveloping. In back, it’s a little tighter, especially getting in and out of the vehicle. Legroom is limited and tall people’s heads will surely skim the ceiling. The gigantic trunk is larger than the Elantra’s, but once the seatbacks are lowered, the floor rises toward the front. In the Cruze’s passenger compartment, you’ll like the quality of the materials, assembly and finish, which are far superior to what GM usually offers. The soundproofing is excellent and the engine noise is well tempered, except during feisty accelerations.

With the Elantra, Hyundai pulled out all the stops to wow consumers. The passenger compartment is enormous, the soundproofing is very good and the back seats are very roomy. Since the car is 25 centimetres longer, there is a notable increase in space in the front and rear seats compared to the old model. However, the plunging roofline limits headroom for passengers in the back. Otherwise, the interior has the same clean and fluid lines as the body and is enhanced by an excellent choice of materials, with limited cheap plastic.

Handling

Behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Cruze, you’ll like the very smooth ride. The suspension balances flexibility and firmness. However, the occasional bump in the road might jar you unpleasantly, especially in the spring. But the car seems pleasantly solid overall. The Cruze’s power steering is well calibrated and precise, but it doesn’t offer much feedback from the road. Its rear drum brakes notwithstanding, the brakes are generally very powerful and resistant.

Besides impressive soundproofing, the new Elantra handles confidently. Its suspension absorbs the road’s small imperfections well, but like the Cruze, the car has trouble with any exaggerated irregularities in the asphalt and the tires take a beating. Otherwise, the engine is smooth and flexible enough for day-to-day driving. The power steering is precise and more direct than that of the Cruze. The braking is surprisingly good and more efficient than what you get on the Cruze.

And the winner is...

Hyundai continues its winning streak with its new Elantra. The car borders on perfection despite a few little irritants. However, the Cruze is helping GM pose a serious challenge in the category. It’s not easy to do better than the Koreans or the Japanese in this segment, but GM’s compact is definitely in the mix this time. That said, the Hyundai Elantra came out the winner of this showdown. It beats the Cruze in several ways, particularly with its bold style, balanced mechanics, exemplary finish and superior roominess. Beyond that, it’s a question of personal taste.