Are Chevy Cruze Good Cars? Uncover the Truth
Is the Chevy Cruze a good car? Many say yes. They are seen as reliable and budget-friendly, especially second-hand. They started in 2008 and ended in 2019. The Chevy Cruze is known for being easy and cheap to take care of. Plus, it’s great on gas. This makes it a top pick for getting around every day. It has a 4 out of 5 stars reliability rating from RepairPal. This makes it a strong option among compact cars.
This article looks into what people say about the Chevy Cruze. It checks out the pros and cons from owners and experts. We’ll look at things like low maintenance costs, which are usually under $550 a year. And, we’ll discuss the best models, which are from 2015 to 2019. They show off the car’s top features. Plus, you’ll get info on what buyers think and the common problems they mention. This will help you decide if the Chevy Cruze is the one for you.
Overview of the Chevrolet Cruze
The Chevy Cruze debuted in 2008, aiming for efficiency and affordability. It soon took the place of the Chevrolet Cobalt. This gave buyers more choices in compact cars. The Cruze came in sedan, hatchback, and station wagon models.
It was built on the GM Delta 2 platform. Although the Cruze was discontinued in the U.S. in 2019, it’s still popular among used car buyers.
The second generation Cruze came out in 2016. It had cool tech upgrades like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features made staying connected on the road easier. The Cruze stands out in the compact car category because it’s both practical and innovative.
Owners like the Cruze for its performance and reliability. It has high ratings from car reviewers. It continues to draw interest from people who want a trustworthy used car.
Chevy Cruze Reliability
The Chevy Cruze has a mixed record when we talk about how reliable it is. RepairPal gives it a score of 4.0 out of 5.0, which is average for small cars. It’s ranked 26th among 36 compact cars. It’s important to note that from 2011 to 2015, Cruzes often had engine and gearbox problems.
The 2016 Cruze also had some reliability issues, pointing to a concerning pattern for owners. On average, owning a Cruze means you have a 12% chance of running into a big problem. This equals about 0.4 unexpected trips to the mechanic every year.
The yearly repair cost for a Chevy Cruze is about $545. This is a bit more than the average for compact cars, which is lower. The overall average repair cost for all types of vehicles is $652. This info helps buyers choose wisely when picking a Cruze model, keeping reliability in mind.
Chevy Cruze Performance
The Chevy Cruze shines in the compact car class because of its great performance. It has a strong 153-hp turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine is perfect for city drives and long highway trips. Also, there’s a 137-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This diesel engine is amazing for saving fuel.
Driving the Cruze is impressive. With a manual transmission, you can get up to 7.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.0 L/100 km on the highway. For diesel lovers, the Cruze Sedan offers up to 31 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway. The Hatchback version gets up to 30 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway.
The Cruze’s performance features are well-liked. The 2019 model was even ranked first in J.D. Power’s Compact Car Rankings. This was for its great fuel use and swift handling. The interior is roomy, but the back seats are a bit tight. This could affect comfort on long drives.
| Model Year | Base Engine (HP) | Turbodiesel Engine (HP) | Fuel Economy (City/Highway) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 153 | 137 | 28/38 mpg |
| 2018 | 153 | 137 | 28/38 mpg |
| 2019 (Turbodiesel) | N/A | 137 | 31/48 mpg |
| 2018 (Turbodiesel) | N/A | 137 | 30/45 mpg |
The Chevy Cruze is made for people who value reliability and efficiency. It does well in various driving conditions. But, think about the space for passengers if you’re going on long trips.
Chevy Cruze Features
The Chevy Cruze shines with its cool features for modern drivers. The model got better over time, especially with car tech. The second-gen brought in great stuff like an easy infotainment system, making info easy to get. Bluetooth is now standard, making it easy to use your phone safely.
Latest models have things like touch-screen displays to make driving better. Rearview cameras are a must-have now for safer parking. Plus, lots of USB ports mean everyone can charge their devices on the go.
The Chevy Cruze is smart about space. It has lots of room for people and their stuff, perfect for active folks. Its mix of comfort and use wins over many drivers. It shows Chevy cares about making sure you enjoy the drive and your life.
Chevy Cruze Fuel Efficiency
The Chevy Cruze stands out for its fuel efficiency. It draws in those who care about the environment and their wallet. With impressive fuel economy, the Cruze leads in its category. The Eco model is particularly notable, with 7.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.0 L/100 km on highways. Whether you choose a sedan or hatchback, you’ll see about 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on highways. This proves the Cruze’s efficiency across different settings.
If you’re interested in a turbocharged version, the Cruze doesn’t disappoint. Its turbodiesel models show even better results. The hatchback gets 30 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on highways. The sedan does slightly better, with 31 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. These numbers make the Chevy Cruze one of the top eco-friendly cars available, offering big savings over time.
The Chevy Cruze’s fuel efficiency doesn’t just save you money at the pump. It also supports greener living, matching current concerns for the environment. As compact cars become more popular for city driving, the Cruze proves to be a wise pick for those seeking efficiency.
Are Chevy Cruze Good Cars? Understanding Owner Experience
Looking into what Chevy Cruze owners have to say shows mixed feelings about this small car. Many enjoy its comfortable ride and how well it handles, ideal for everyday driving. The newer models, from 2017 to 2019, are often praised for their enhanced performance and up-to-date features. But, it’s important to see both the good points and the drawbacks reported by owners.
Real-World Performance Feedback
Owners give mixed reviews about the Cruze. They like the turbo engine’s power of around 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It makes driving fun. The car is also good on gas, with about 28 to 30 mpg in the city and up to 40 mpg on highways. However, the first models from 2011 to 2015 have had some serious issues. Things like the transmission and engine troubles, including overheating and turbo failures.
Common Issues Reported
Finding out the Chevy Cruze’s usual problems is key for buyers. Studies show there’s a 12% chance each year for serious problems. The 2011-2014 models often have transmission and coolant leaks. This leads to a lot of complaints. On average, fixing a Chevy Cruze costs about CA$750 yearly. Some models might even need over $500 in repairs. Buyers looking at older Cruzes should know that models from 2017 to 2019 are more reliable.
Chevy Cruze Safety Ratings and Features
Safety is key when looking at the Chevrolet Cruze as a trusted car. Its safety ratings show strong results in crash tests. This makes the Cruze a top choice for compact car safety. It has earned high marks over the years for its solid safety features.
The Cruze has features like high-strength steel and an advanced airbag system to protect everyone inside. It also has anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control for safer driving. Plus, newer models come with tech like blind-spot monitoring and collision alerts for extra safety.
To give you a clear picture, below is a table with the Chevy Cruze’s safety ratings and features:
| Evaluation Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good (G) |
| Driver Head Protection | Good (G) |
| Passenger Head Protection | Good (G) |
| Side Test Overall Evaluation | Good (G) |
| Child Seat Anchors Rating | Marginal (M) |
These features, together with impressive ratings from safety organizations, show the Cruze’s dedication to safety. So, you can see the Chevy Cruze as a compact car focused on keeping you safe. It’s a great choice for anyone’s driving needs.
Comparing the Chevy Cruze to Other Compact Cars
The Chevy Cruze is well-known in the compact car market but faces tough rivalry. It’s vital to understand how this choice influences your driving and cost of ownership.
When looking at the Chevy Cruze versus the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, points like reliability, power, and interior size matter. The Cruze comes with an efficient 1.4-liter turbo engine offering 153 horsepower for daily use. Yet, the Honda Accord features a stronger engine with 252 horsepower for better performance.
The Cruze’s reliability score is 4.0 out of 5.0, putting it 26th out of 36 compact cars. Its yearly repair cost is $545, which is more than the Honda Accord’s $400. This suggests the Cruze might cost more over time. Also, with 53 known issues and 36 recalls, long-term satisfaction could be impacted.
The Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic excel in safety and comfort. The Cruze has a 7.0-inch MyLink screen with smartphone support, but the Corolla offers more safety features. It also has a top 5-star NHTSA safety rating and strong IIHS test results.
When it comes to space, the Chevy Cruze has 13.9 cubic feet in the trunk and 94 cubic feet inside. This is less than the Honda Accord, which boasts 16.7 cubic feet for cargo and 102.7 cubic feet overall.
Understanding the differences between the Chevy Cruze and its rivals helps in making a wise choice. This knowledge lets you pick a compact car that fits your needs, considering cost, reliability, and features. Always carefully review your options to ensure you get the most value for your money.
Conclusion
When we look at the Chevy Cruze, it shows both strengths and weaknesses. The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco, for example, is a standout. It is known for great fuel efficiency, with a 42 mpg rating on the highway. This beats rivals like the Honda Civic HF and Ford Focus SFE. So, it’s a great pick for those wanting a mix of value and performance.
Owners say the Chevy Cruze is reliable, especially the newer models. It has a roomy interior, with plenty of space in the back seats. Plus, its turbocharged engine has 138 horsepower. If you’re thinking of buying a used Chevy Cruze, look into its reliability and what other buyers say.
In the end, Chevy Cruze cars can be a smart choice, but you need to choose wisely. Picking the right model year is key. The Chevy Cruze appeals to those who value fuel efficiency, comfort, and strong value in a compact car.
FAQ
Are Chevy Cruze good cars for daily commuting?
Yes, the Chevy Cruze shines with its fuel efficiency and space. It’s great for daily drives.
What is the reliability of the Chevy Cruze?
The Chevy Cruze gets a medium reliability score. For better reliability, go for models made in 2016 or later.
How does the performance of the Chevy Cruze compare to similar compact cars?
The Chevy Cruze performs well. Its turbo engines offer speedy acceleration and smooth handling.
What features can I find in the Chevy Cruze?
Latest models are packed with cool features. Expect Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a user-friendly system, and many safety tools.
What are the fuel efficiency ratings for the Chevy Cruze?
The Cruze is super fuel-efficient. It uses about 7.8 L/100 km in the city. On highways, it drops to 6.0 L/100 km, especially with the Eco model.
How safe is the Chevy Cruze?
The Cruze scores high in safety. Thanks to its strong steel build and trusted airbag system, it’s safe for families.
What is the average price range for a used Chevy Cruze?
Used Cruze prices vary. They’re generally considered affordable against other compact cars.
What are common issues reported by Chevy Cruze owners?
Owners often report problems with the transmission and engine in the 2011-2015 models. It’s key to check specific years closely.
How does the Chevy Cruze compare with competitors like Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla?
The Cruze offers a good mix of features and efficiency. But, it might not be as reliable in the long run as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla.
