2009 holden cruze review Page 5

Remember when “small sedan” meant beige? The 2009 Holden Cruze turned up trying to be sensible rather than spicy, with a comfortable ride, tidy handling, and proper big-car safety for its day (it scored a 5-star ANCAP). You’ll find modest performance from the 1.8 petrol or a thriftier 2.0 diesel, both happier cruising than sprinting, especially with the lazy auto. Inside, it’s hard-wearing plastics, decent space, and tech that now looks charmingly prehistoric. Running costs are generally friendly, but buy on condition and service history—time has a way of loosening bolts and budgets. If you want cheap, safe, A-to-B transport, it fits; if you want thrills, bring a different set of keys.