Five-Point Inspection: 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco

Performance Par With Automotive Pacifism

Turbocharged with a lowered suspension and rear spoiler usually signal performance, but that couldn’t be farther from the case here.

A noticeable power increase kicks in around 4000 rpm when the small turbo spools up, and while that’s a welcome boost, it’s just enough to find highway speeds before running out of room with shorter on-ramps.

Don’t expect to pass anyone either. Aggressive downshifting makes for marginal gains and maddening noise as the engine screams in agony.