Price:Starts at $23,120, with an estimated dealer invoice price of $21,000. Price as tested is $29,035, including $5,040 in options (advanced electronic safety, onboard navigation, sound system and other items) and an $875 factory-to-dealer transportation charge.

Engines/transmission:The new Cruze comes standard with a turbocharged, direct-injection, 16-valve, 1.4-liter, inline four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing (153 horsepower, 177 foot-pounds of torque). A six-speed automatic transmission is standard; a six-speed manual is optional.

Fuel economy:I averaged 38 miles per gallon on the highway.

Ride, acceleration and handling:It gets good marks in all three areas, meaning most new and law-abiding drivers will be pleased with the new Cruze’s daily performance.

Head-turning quotient:Attractive, pleasant; it is quite nicely done.

Trims:It is a front-wheel-drive, compact sedan available in five trim levels: L, LS, LT, RS and Premier. However, still available, generally at a lower price, is the older Cruze Limited.

Capacities:Seating is for five people. Cargo capacity is 13.9 cubic feet in the LT, RS and Premier models and 14.8 cubic feet in the L and LS. Fuel capacity is 13.7 gallons (regular grade is OK). I used 89 octane for what I considered better performance.

Safety:Standard equipment includes four-wheel disc brakes, ventilated front and solid rear; four-wheel anti-lock brake protection; emergency brake protection; traction and stability control; stronger body structure with lightweight, high-strength steel in key crash-protection areas; post-collision safety system; and 10 air bags.

Recommendation:Get the available advanced electronic safety options, even if it means sacrificing “fun stuff.”

Bottom line:As a first family car, or a getting-started graduation gift, the 2016 Cruze is perfect.

— Warren Brown