Video: 2016 Chevrolet Cruze: Tech Features

Besides expected comfort and convenience features, the Cruze packs a ton of available tech features designed to keep you both informed and entertained when you're on the move. The Cruze has a standard seven-inch touchscreen multimedia system. And this eight-inch touchscreen on this Premier trim level is optional. But, what I like about the setup, is that regardless of which screen you get, you get Apple CarPlay and Android auto smartphone capability, which mirrors select apps on the screen. And it takes just a few seconds when you plug in your phone for the apps to show up here, making it an easy way to use your phone's media and navigation capability when you need it. Power cords can be a hassle, especially in the car, but the Cruze helps you reduce some clutter in the cabin with its available wireless device charging. It's available for the Premier trim level, and all you have to do is put a compatible smartphone in this slot in the center console. However, it doesn't work with every phone. It doesn't work with iPhone right now without a special adapter. So, you have to have a phone like a Samsung Galaxy model right now to take advantage of this feature. LT and Premier trim levels come with an extended-length trial of the Cruze's connected services. Dubbed the 24/7 Promise, it includes two years of Sirius XM satellite radio, two years or 24 gigabytes of 4G LTE data for in-car WIFI, and two years of the OnStar Guidance plan. As introductory trial offers go this plan is pretty generous, because the norm in this segment is three to six months for a Sirius satellite radio trial. Chevrolet says the 24 gigabytes of data can provide up to 800 hours of streaming music, or 1,600 hours of web browsing. But online video will burn through that considerably quicker. With the myChevrolet app, you can stay connected with the Cruze through your smartphone. The app gives you information like vehicle fuel level, tire pressure, and also the car's current location. So, you can find it if you've forgotten where you parked at the mall. You can also send a destination to the car's optional navigation system, and lock and unlock the doors, and start the car, if the car has remote start. Some of the features on the app mimic the ones on your key fob, like remote start. But, I like how it gives you the freedom to access your car from almost anywhere. Like every other automaker, Chevrolet is trying to figure out how to get the attention of younger buyers. And I think they've hit on a good approach in the new Cruze by making it easy to stay connected with your digital life, with technology that's already familiar. The effort should go a long way towards helping the Cruze stand out in the competitive compact car segment. (trunk thuds)