Are Chevy Cruze Good Cars? Pros & Cons Better 9 Review
Is the Chevy Cruze a good car? Absolutely. It stands out as a reliable compact car known for its stylish design, affordability, and great features.
This review will show you why the Chevy Cruze is a favorite among many drivers. We will talk about its reliability, performance, how much gas it uses, and more to help you decide.
In this article, you’ll find detailed Chevy Cruze reviews highlighting its pros and cons. We’ll discuss how dependable it is and compare different years’ models.
You’ll also learn about its engine options and what it’s like to drive. Gas mileage is a big plus, and we’ll explain its EPA ratings and what affects its fuel economy.
Additionally, we’ll examine what makes the Chevy Cruze stand out, including its tech-savvy interior and safety features.
You’ll get information on common issues owners have, how much you might spend on upkeep, and its value over time. By the article’s end, you’ll know if the Chevy Cruze could be the car for you.
Introduction To The Chevy Cruze
The Chevy Cruze stepped into the compact car world with a big impact. General Motors launched it for people who want style and practicality in their daily rides.
You can choose between a sleek sedan or a handy hatchback, depending on what you prefer. This car isn’t just a treat for the eyes; it’s smart on the road too.
It offers plenty of room for passengers and all your stuff in the trunk, making it great for comfy travel.
Getting to know the Chevy Cruze is key if you’re thinking about how it fits into your life.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Body Styles | Sedan, Hatchback |
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 40 MPG on highways |
| Infotainment | Touchscreen with smartphone integration |
| Safety Ratings | NCAP 5-Star Rating |
Chevy Cruze Reliability
When looking at how reliable the Chevy Cruze is, it’s key to see the overall scores from different places.
It is also important to compare the reliability across various model years. This helps you pick a car that will be good for you.
Overall Reliability Ratings
The Chevy Cruze’s reliability scores change over time. RepairPal gives it a strong 4 out of 5 stars for reliability. J.D. Power gives some years a score of 84 out of 100.
This means a lot of owners find these cars more reliable than they thought. The models made from 2015 to 2019 get especially high marks for being dependable.
Model Year Comparisons
Different years of the Chevy Cruze vary in reliability. The newer models usually do better, but the ones from 2011 to 2014 had problems with their engines and transmissions.
The 2012 model is often pointed out for being less reliable because of these issues. Keeping these differences in mind will help you pick the best car from the used market.
Chevy Cruze Performance
The Chevy Cruze has a mix of power and efficiency that stands out in its class. You can pick an engine that fits how you like to drive.
It’s designed to feel good on the road, balancing power with comfort.
Engine Options and Specifications
The Chevy Cruze’s engines are made to suit various needs. Most versions after 2016 have a 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec engine for daily use.
There’s also a 1.8-liter Ecotec engine. It’s fun to drive but doesn’t save as much gas as the turbo option.
| Engine Type | Displacement | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Efficiency (MPG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4L Turbocharged Ecotec | 1.4 liters | 153 hp | 177 lb-ft | 26 city / 38 highway |
| 1.8L Ecotec | 1.8 liters | 138 hp | 125 lb-ft | 25 city / 36 highway |
Driving Experience and Handling
The Chevy Cruze provides a ride that’s smooth and quiet. It feels sure and easy to handle, both in the city and on the highway.
Its suspension soaks up bumps well, making rides comfortable without losing grip. This makes driving, whether daily commutes or long trips, truly enjoyable.
Chevy Cruze Fuel Efficiency
The Chevy Cruze stands out for its amazing fuel efficiency. It’s a favorite among those who want a compact car.
Knowing the EPA ratings can show how fuel-efficient the Chevy Cruze really is, especially the recent models.
EPA Ratings by Model Year
The fuel efficiency of the Chevy Cruze varies by model year. Models from 2017 and later have high EPA ratings. They get up to 30/40 mpg in the city/on the highway under the best conditions.
For example, the 2019 model gets 32 mpg when it has the 1.4-liter turbo engine. This shows Chevy’s effort to improve fuel economy.
Factors Affecting Fuel Economy
Several factors affect a car’s fuel economy. Important points include:
- Engine type and specifications: Different engines may offer varying efficiencies.
- Driving habits: Aggressive driving can significantly lower mpg ratings.
- Regular maintenance: Keeping your vehicle in good condition ensures optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
Knowing these factors can help Chevy Cruze owners get the most out of their car’s fuel efficiency. This leads to savings and a better drive.
Chevy Cruze Features
The Chevy Cruze shines with its great features made for today’s drivers. The technology inside and top-notch safety scores make driving better.
Interior Technology
The car’s advanced interior tech is highly appealing. Its infotainment system works well with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
This means drivers can enjoy easy access to maps, tunes, and texts safely while driving.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Chevy Cruze is known for its excellent safety. It has earned a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA over several years.
Features like lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and a rear vision camera help keep drivers safe.
Common Problems with Chevy Cruze
Chevy Cruze owners often face issues with their cars’ engine and transmission. Knowing these problems early can save you from expensive fixes.
It’s crucial to be aware of these chevy cruze engine and transmission issues to enjoy your car more.
Engine and Transmission Issues
Common complaints include overheating, coolant leaks, and the Check Engine light turning on.
Chevy Cruzes made between 2011 and 2014 are especially likely to have these engine and transmission problems.
Here’s a table highlighting the main concerns:
| Model Year | Common Engine Issues | Common Transmission Problems | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Overheating, Oil leaks | Shifting delays, Transmission slips | Regular maintenance, Monitoring fluid levels |
| 2012 | Coolant leaks, Check Engine light | Inconsistent performance, Noise during shifting | Early diagnostics, Fluid replacement |
| 2013 | Turbocharger failures, Noise issues | Transmission component wear, Fluid contamination | Inspection of components, Timely repairs |
| 2014 | Water pump failures, Hesitation | Delayed engagement, Overheating | Check for bulletin updates, Preventative maintenance |
Electrical and Cooling System Problems
Electrical troubles in the Cruze can mess with important car functions and safety. Issues like the car not starting, odd dashboard signals, and lights not working right are signs.
Staying on top of these can dodge bigger issues. Regular checks of the cooling system can also prevent overheating and keep your car running smoothly.
Chevy Cruze Maintenance Costs
The Chevy Cruze mixes affordability with reliability well. To know what owning one means, it’s key to look at maintenance costs.
This helps us understand the expected costs for Chevy Cruze owners.
Average Annual Repair Expenses
On average, fixing a Chevy Cruze costs about $545 each year. These expenses vary depending on the car’s year and how often it needs repairs.
The 2015 model, for example, might cost about $839 a year for upkeep. This shows why it’s important to think about the car’s repair history and model type.
Cost Comparisons with Competitors
When comparing costs, the Chevy Cruze often does well against cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Even though the Cruze is usually a good deal, some models may have higher repair costs due to common issues.
Knowing how it stacks up against rivals can help you make a smart choice for your next car.
| Model | Average Annual Maintenance Cost | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Chevy Cruze (2015) | $839 | Transmission problems |
| Honda Civic (2015) | $428 | Limited concerns |
| Toyota Corolla (2015) | $430 | Minor electrical issues |
Are Chevy Cruze Good Cars? Learning The Pros & Cons
Looking into the Chevy Cruze means checking out its good and bad sides. This car draws in people who want trustworthiness and new features.
By looking at the Cruze’s pros and its cons, you can see if it’s a good fit for you.
Pros of Owning A Chevy Cruze
- Attractive Design: The Chevy Cruze has a cool look and a comfy inside, making it good to look at and use.
- Technology Features: It comes with up-to-date tech like an easy infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto to improve your drives.
- Fuel Efficiency: It’s great on gas, which makes the Cruze a budget-friendly option for daily drives and saves you money on fuel.
- Comfortable Ride: With a roomy cabin and nice seats, it ensures a smooth journey, even on long trips.
Cons To Consider Before Purchasing
- Engine Reliability Issues: Some owners have had trouble with the engine, which might mean spending more on fixes later.
- Depreciation Concerns: The Chevy Cruze can lose value quickly, which might affect how much you can sell it for later.
- Limited Storage Space: It’s okay for small trips, but the trunk might not hold enough for those who need more room.
- Average Handling: It may not be as exciting to drive as other cars, which might not please those who love driving.
By thinking over the good and bad points, you can choose wisely if the Chevy Cruze meets what you want and need.
Knowing both sides helps you get the full picture before deciding on the Chevy Cruze.
Resale Value and Market Trends
The resale value of the Chevy Cruze is often talked about by both potential buyers and those who already own one.
Knowing about market trends and how much these cars lose value over time is important. It helps you make smart choices about your vehicle.
Depreciation Rates
The value of the Chevy Cruze drops quite a bit, especially in the first few years. As time goes on, they tend to lose value faster than some other small cars.
Recent studies show that the value of used Cruzes can drop by 15% to 25% in just the first few years.
| Model Year | Depreciation Rate (%) | Average Resale Value |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 22% | $12,000 |
| 2017 | 18% | $14,500 |
| 2018 | 15% | $16,000 |
Future Market Outlook For Used Chevy Cruze
The demand for compact sedans like the Chevy Cruze is going down. More people want SUVs and crossovers instead.
This changes how much the Cruzes are worth and makes their place in the market weaker.
With new electric and hybrid cars coming out, how much the Chevy Cruze will be worth could change a lot because of what people prefer.
Conclusion
The Chevy Cruze is a great pick if you want a car that’s easy on the wallet and smooth to drive. It shines among its rivals with cozy seats and lots of cool features.
But, it’s important to talk about some issues with reliability, especially with certain years. These points matter a lot when deciding to buy.
Think about the good and bad points we covered in this review. This will help you be sure and ready when choosing.
Keep in mind what you really need from a car, like how it performs, what it costs to keep up, and how much you can sell it for later.
Following these tips will help you choose wisely if the Chevy Cruze is your match. Knowing what’s good and not so good about the Chevy Cruze is key to making a smart buy.
Whether you care most about saving gas, being comfy, or sticking to your budget, the Chevy Cruze has lots of fans. It’s a car that keeps proving its worth.
FAQs
Are Chevy Cruze good cars?
Yes, the Chevy Cruze is known for its cool design, comfy ride, and being fuel-efficient. But, it’s wise to watch out for certain years that have reliability issues.
How reliable is the Chevy Cruze?
Reliability changes depending on the model year. Models from 2015 to 2019 are seen as reliable. Yet, models made between 2011 and 2014 have had engine and gear troubles.
What is the performance of a Chevy Cruze?
The Chevy Cruze gives a smooth drive and decent power, especially with the 1.4-liter turbo engine. It nicely balances comfort and control on the road.
How fuel efficient is the Chevy Cruze?
The Chevy Cruze is great on gas, with newer models (2017 onwards) getting up to 30/40 mpg in the city/highway.
What features does the Chevy Cruze come with?
Inside the Chevy Cruze, you find cool tech like an easy-to-use infotainment system, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. It scores well in safety too, adding to its charm.
What common problems should I be aware of with the Chevy Cruze?
Some Chevy Cruze cars have had engine and gear issues, like heating up and coolant leaks, mostly in 2011-2014 models. Checking these parts in pre-owned cars is crucial.
What are the average maintenance costs for a Chevy Cruze?
Keeping a Chevy Cruze running costs about 5 a year on average. But, some years might need more repairs, making maintenance costlier.
What is the resale value of the Chevy Cruze?
The Chevy Cruze usually sells for less used compared to others, especially older models. This is mainly because people are moving away from compact sedans.
