The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze ranks 6 out of 33 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 40 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Cruze, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is a brand new model that brings a hint of luxury to affordable small cars.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze replaces the Chevrolet Cobalt, and the automotive industry couldn’t be happier that GM decided to remove that car from its lineup -- the Cruze is a much better car. The 2011 Cruze has one of the highest quality cabins in its class, good performance and a roomy interior that reminds reviewers of larger, more expensive vehicles. “One of the highest compliments you can pay a car is to say it feels more expensive than it is, and that's the case with the Cruze versions I drove,” writes the Chicago Tribune. But, test drivers have found that this comment only stands when the Cruze costs less than $20,000 – the trims they drive (and prefer) are pricier.

The Cruze starts at about $16,000, a price that is already above what the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Hyundai Elantra cost, and the bottom line increases when you add features like leather seats, Bluetooth and navigation, or select a higher trim. One trim many shoppers will consider is ECO, which has the highest fuel economy ratings in the model lineup of 28/42 mpg city/highway, according to the EPA. But, with a starting price of almost $18,500, some reviewers say a few extra miles per gallon isn’t worth it, especially when the Hyundai Elantra will get you 29/40 mpg city/highway for about $15,000 -- and you don’t need to upgrade to a higher trim.