THE Chevrolet Cruze is a great family saloon, hatch and estate that I've really enjoyed driving.

The right foot really has to be floored in the petrol models to get best performance, so the diesels really are the best bet.

I have driven both and they each offer decent performance. But the diesel gives it with very good economy.

The 1.6 petrol has 124bhp and there is also a 1.8 with 140bhp. The diesels all have a 2.0-litre with 123 and later 163bhp.

They all have tidy handling and safe road holding with strong grip and good feedback from the steering.

The diesel sounds noisy on the outside, but is well subdued inside and performance is excellent. The six-speed gearbox has a good change and there is loads of urge in fourth and fifth, I managed to get 47 miles to the gallon on a fairly gentle drive back from a weekend away so I was well-pleased.

The Cruze has good rear legroom, a decent boot and 60/40 split fold rear seats. Seat adjustment for the driver is excellent.