Buying a used Chevrolet Cruze is a great option in the sedan class as it’s an affordable and compact car. While it may not have flashy features, the Chevy Cruze is a sensible choice as a family runabout and is likely to appeal to those who are searching for their first car, particularly in the used car market. If you’re considering purchasing a used Chevrolet Cruze, here’s what you should keep in mind and watch out for.
Brief History of Chevrolet Cruze
GM has manufactured and marketed the Chevy Cruze since 2008, but it wasn’t available for purchase in the United States until the 2011 model year. While a new generation of the Chevrolet Cruze was introduced in 2016, GM halted sales of the model in the US in 2019 due to declining sales figures caused by the rising demand for SUVs.
Between 2011 and 2015, the average annual US sales of the Chevy Cruze were around 244,000 units. However, in 2016, sales dropped to 188,876 and continued to decline each year thereafter. The final year of production was in 2019, and sales plummeted to only 47,975 units, a significant drop from the 142,617 units sold the previous year.
As for the number of generations of the Chevy Cruze, there were only two spanning from the 2011 to 2019 model years. The first generation covered the 2011 to 2015 model years, while the second generation began in the 2016 model year and continued until the Cruze was ultimately discontinued in 2019.
Is Chevrolet Cruze Reliable?
The Chevy Cruze is generally considered a reliable car without any major issues. However, it’s worth noting that oil leaks from the engine, coolant lines, and transmission seals are relatively common, and coolant leaks can lead to the need for a replacement thermostat housing. According to Car Complaints models manufactured in 2011 and 2012 have the highest rates of complaints about issues like cracked piston and transmission failures.
As with most affordable mass-produced cars, there are some minor issues to watch out for with the Cruze, such as faulty trunk release switches. While these problems can be inconvenient, they are typically easy and inexpensive to fix, so they shouldn’t deter you from considering a used Cruze as an otherwise solid car option.
First Generation of Chevy Cruze (2011 – 2015)
The Chevrolet Cruze made its debut in the US in 2011 as a replacement for the Cobalt. The compact sedan offered a larger body style, upgraded engine options, and improved technology features, making it a hit with consumers. The base model came with a 1.8L engine and manual transmission, while the ECO trim level offered an upgraded 1.4L turbo engine. The standard engine delivered an impressive 36 mpg on the highway, and the turbo engine achieved an even better 40 mpg on the highway. The car comfortably accommodated up to five passengers and offered Bluetooth connectivity, a premium audio system, a USB port, and a remote start for an enhanced driving experience.
In 2012, the Chevy Cruze was updated with additional standard features, improving fuel efficiency, and safety features. The 2012 model added power windows and locks, keyless entry, and StabiliTrak electronic stability control. The 2013 model year brought further enhancements, including the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and an upgraded Pioneer Premium Audio system. Safety features such as rear cross-traffic alert and a new traction control system were also included.
In 2014, the Cruze saw few cosmetic changes, but it became the first year that a 2.0L turbo diesel engine was made available. With the introduction of a 2.0L turbo diesel engine in 2014, the Chevrolet Cruze offered consumers a substantial boost in power and performance. This engine also achieved an impressive fuel economy rating of 46 mpg on the highway, making it the most efficient option available at that time. Moving on to the 2015 model year, the Cruze received several upgrades that were both cosmetic and technological.
1st Generation Chevrolete Cruze Different Variants
There were various distinct models of the Chevy Cruze’s first generation such as:
- LS: The base trim level, offers standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine.
- 1LT: This trim added features like cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. It also offered an available turbocharged 1.4-liter engine.
- Eco: This version emphasized fuel efficiency with features like aerodynamic enhancements, low-rolling-resistance tires, and an available turbocharged 1.4-liter engine.
- 2LT: Building upon the 1LT trim, the 2LT included upgrades such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a sport-tuned suspension.
- LTZ: Positioned as the top-of-the-line model, the LTZ offered additional luxury features like automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, and a rearview camera.
Second Generation (2016 – 2019)
In 2016, the Chevy Cruze underwent a complete overhaul both inside and out. With this redesign came standard features such as the V4 gas engine, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto smartphone integration. The following year, in 2017, the hatchback and diesel models became fully available but there were no major changes for the Cruze otherwise.
Moving on to the second generation, the Cruze in 2018 received a significant update with the inclusion of the standard 7-inch MyLink Technology System. In 2019, the Cruze received a minor exterior restyling, but no significant changes were made other than the usual yearly updates to engine technology and power upgrades.
2nd Generation Chevrolete Cruze Different Variants
The second generation of the Chevy Cruze introduced several different variations:
L: The base trim level, offers standard features such as a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
LS: Similar to the L trim, the LS added features like carpeted floor mats, a spare tire, and available options such as a remote start system.
LT: This trim level included additional features like LED daytime running lights, upgraded interior upholstery, and available options such as a power sunroof and heated front seats.
Premier: Positioned as the top-tier model, the Premier offered luxury features such as leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, automatic climate control, and advanced safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
Additionally, the second-generation Cruze received a mid-cycle refresh in 2019, which introduced the following trims:
LS (2019): Similar to the previous LS trim, it offered features like a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
LT (2019): Comparable to the previous LT trim, it included features like LED daytime running lights, upgraded interior upholstery, and available options such as a power sunroof and heated front seats.
Where To Get a Used Chevy Cruze
First Choice Motors is the go-to destination for those seeking affordable and reliable used cars in Toronto. With a vast inventory that includes popular makes and models, including the Chevrolet Cruze, customers can find the perfect car to fit their budget and needs. The dealership’s commitment to excellent customer service, competitive pricing, and full-service maintenance and repair ensures that customers can enjoy their vehicle for years to come. Visit First Choice Motors today for an exceptional car buying experience and find your perfect car at a price you can afford.