Chevrolet’s new car is a traditionally-styled saloon pitched at an attractively low price, says motoring editor Peter Carroll.

Chevrolet has a distinguished history of producing sports cars capable of setting the pulse racing – but in recent years its European operation has concentrated on the budget end of the market, offering value products like the Matiz and Lacetti.

In recent years the American firm has smartened up its range, however, and is currently enjoying success in the market place on this side of the Atlantic with more modern cars like the Aveo supermini and Captiva SUV.

Now comes the Cruze, a traditionally-styled, medium-sized four-seater saloon which is targeted at the buyer who is in the market for a Ford Focus, but doesn’t want to spend Focus money.

Prices for the Cruze start attractively low at under £12,000, though do rise to nearly £16,000 for the most capable model in the range – the 150hp diesel.

So how does the Cruze stack up in one of the most hotly contested areas of the market?

Muscular

The first impressions are positive. The Cruze has a smart, muscular design, though it hardly stands out in a crowd.

Instead of an old GM hand-me-down chassis, it gets to sit on the new Astra platform – before the latest generation Astra (which will not arrive in the UK until towards the end of the year).

And cabin quality looks to have a big stride forward for Chevrolet too.

The range includes three trim levels and a choice of two petrols and two diesels. The latter are the better bet but are more expensive to buy.

The 1.6 petrol is sluggish through the gears but happy enough once it has got to the desired cruising speed. The 1.8 is quicker, with no penalty in terms of fuel consumption.

The flagship 150hp diesel, meanwhile, can hit 60mph in 8.7 seconds, while returning anything up to 50mpg – but prices start at over £15,000, for this model.

Comfortable

Inside the car, it should be reasonably easy to get comfortable and there’s plenty of spare room for your left foot. The front seats are snug-fitting and comfortable.

The quality of some of the switchgear looks good and the dash is smartened up by the use of fabric panels.

But the plastic is still hard, for the most part, and there’s still that tell-tale plasticky smell which used to accompany so many Far East-manufactured cars.

Legroom in the back is only average, which possibly explains why the Cruze has such a vast boot.

And while you do not get the versatility of a hatch, this load space should be able to cater for most load-lugging needs.

On the road, the Cruze offers a sedate rather than sporty drive.

It rides and grips well but its steering is light and lifeless. The diesels are best option but add weight to the front end of what is a relatively light car.

Overall, the Cruze looks a good bet for those seeking a traditionally-styled car at a reasonable price. Running costs should be reasonable, thanks to group four insurance.

But competition is fierce in this sector, with heavy discounting taking place, especially on outgoing Astras.

And while the Cruze may not have too many vices, nor does it excel in any particular area either.

FACT FILE:

Model: 1.6i LS

Price: £12,595

Engine: 1,598cc, four cylinder, petrol

Power: 113PS

Transmission: Five speed manual gearbox, front wheel drive

Performance: 0-62mph in 11.8 seconds

Top speed: 115mph

Economy: 41.4mpg on combined cycle

CO2 emissions: 159g/km (VED £150)

Length: 4,4597mm

Weight: 1,285kg

Insurance group: 4

Servicing: 12,000 miles

Warranty: Three years/ 60,000 miles