Chevrolet Cruze

Overview: Is the Chevrolet Cruze a Good Car?

Sold from 2011 to 2019, the Chevy Cruze was General Motors’ last attempt to take on the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and other compact cars. Its sharp styling, value-oriented pricing, and Chevrolet’s vast dealer network made the vehicle popular. Preowned Chevy Cruzes are readily available on the used car market. The automaker sold several variants ranging from basic economy cars to highly optioned editions with luxury features. The second generation (2016-2019) introduced more upscale features and a modern appearance. Chevy carried over the first generation for 2016 as the Cruze Limited.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Chevrolet Cruze cars for sale.

Find a used Chevrolet Cruze for sale.

Key Features

The Chevrolet Cruze has:

• Numerous trims
• Four-cylinder power, including an ultra-efficient Diesel option (select model years)
• A sedan body style, plus a hatchback option for the second generation
• Front-wheel drive

Trims

Chevy Cruze trims vary by year and generation, but a lower-end LS and mid-tier LT were constant offerings. The early years saw the MPG-oriented ECO and a top-dog LTZ, while the Premium replaced the LTZ in 2016. Some years were available with a wallet-friendly L version and a Diesel variant.

Learn More: 2014 Chevy Cruze Problems: What to Look For If Buying Used

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Despite some of the premium trappings, the Cruze is a compact car. This means decent accommodations for the front row and adequate space in the back (although the second generation provides more second-row legroom). All Cruze models come with the essentials (like air conditioning). Still, you’ll want to focus on the second generation if you prefer an infotainment touchscreen and other advanced technology (either as an option or a standard feature). Despite the Cruze’s modest size, the sedan provides a generous-sized trunk. The hatchback edition offers additional versatility.

How It Drives

Don’t expect a ride-on-rails experience with the Chevrolet Cruze; it’s an economy car. Driving the first generation will be acceptable or moderately engaging, depending on whether the engine is turbocharged. The second-generation Cruze came standard with a turbo engaging, offering a more peppy driving experience.

Safety

Although the Chevy Cruze is a compact car, it does well in testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Most years received an overall five-star rating. However, the 2016 and early 2017 editions received a still-acceptable four-star ranking.

Reviews

Chevrolet Cruze reviews from Kelley Blue Book are relatively consistent, with scores ranging from 3.9 to 4.1 (out of 5.0). Think of the Cruze as a C+ or B- student. Consumers single out the first generation’s reliability and quality, while quality drops slightly with the second generation.

Related: Here Are The Chevy Cruze Years To Avoid

FAQS

What is the price of a Chevrolet Cruze?

Depending on age, price, condition, mileage, and location, expect to pay $3,000 to $22,000 for a preowned Chevy Cruze. For example, a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze with under 100,000 miles goes for $8,000-$10,000.

Why was the Chevy Cruze discontinued?

Although Chevrolet went to great lengths to make the Cruze competitive, ultimately, General Motors determined the effort wasn’t profitable and dropped the car after 2019. The decision was part of GM’s shift away from passenger cars.

How long does the Chevy Cruze last?

Vehicle longevity is greatly influenced by build quality. However, proper maintenance and prompt repairs can keep a car on the road longer. There’s no precise cut-off for how long a Chevy Cruze will last. A review of CoPilot’s nationwide for-sale listings shows that only 7% of available Cruze models have more than 150,000 miles, suggesting a possible lifespan.

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