Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. As a manager of written content, he writes and edits the reviews that help consumers find their perfect car. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
Feels sporty and planted around turns
Touchscreen interface is easy to use
Available diesel-powered engine for high fuel economy
Cons
Gas engine's disappointing acceleration and real-world fuel economy
Engine stop-start cannot be disabled
Front seats aren't particularly comfortable
What's new
Optional diesel engine now offered on sedan and hatchback versions
Part of the second Cruze generation introduced for 2016
The Cruze is a popular sedan for Chevrolet, and the company is doing its best to keep it competitive against some equally popular rivals. Just last year, Chevy introduced the Cruze hatchback, which offers more cargo-carrying versatility than the sedan and a new diesel-powered engine that can get more than 50 mpg on the highway. This year, you can combine both as Chevrolet is introducing a Cruze hatchback diesel.
Experience the perfect blend of style, efficiency, and reliability with this 2018 Chevrolet Cruze LS Auto. Dressed in a sleek Mosaic Black Metallic fi...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
33 Combined MPG (29 City/40 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1G1BC5SM7J7211114 Stock: 211114A01 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-13-2025
This Cruze continues with core strengths, such as an appealing mix of technology and safety features, a premium-looking cabin, and a ride quality that is both sporty and comfortable. But there are some great small sedans and hatchbacks out right now. The Honda Civic, which was redesigned two years ago, is one of the best small cars on the market. The Hyundai Elantra and the Mazda 3 are also compelling alternatives if you want something with more sport or technology. Overall, we like the Cruze but suggest you also check out a few of these top rivals before purchasing.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.5 / 10
Scorecard
Overall
7.5 / 10
Driving
8.0
Comfort
7.5
Interior
8.0
Utility
8.0
Technology
8.0
Driving
8.0
With 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque, the Cruze's turbocharged 1.4-liter engine should be competitive. But the power doesn't come on strong until high in the rev range, which blunts acceleration. Everything else, from the strong brakes to the adept chassis, is very well-sorted.
Acceleration
6.5
Acceleration feels sluggish from rest; the dash from zero to 60 mph took 9.6 seconds at the track. But it responds reasonably well when moving — such as passing maneuvers on the highway — because you don't have to floor the gas pedal to trigger a downshift.
Braking
9.5
The Cruze has a nice, firm brake pedal feel, and the brakes apply as soon as you press the pedal. They aren't touchy, just responsive. The Cruze needed only 110 feet to come to a stop from 60 mph, a very short distance for a compact sedan.
Steering
8.5
The steering effort is fairly light, a typical characteristic in this class. The car feels sporty thanks to its quick reactions to steering inputs and the amount of feedback transmitted through the steering wheel.
Handling
8.5
The Cruze feels balanced and coordinated. The optional 18-inch tires provide good grip, so you can take turns reasonably quickly before the tires begin to slip and howl. Driver confidence is further enhanced by a surprisingly low amount of body roll.
Drivability
7.5
The Cruze doesn't immediately jump to the highest gear when pulling away from a stop, and it is smart enough to hold on to lower gears on uphill climbs. While mostly unintrusive, the automatic engine stop-start feature cannot be disabled.
Comfort
7.5
Given the relative lack of seat adjustments and the forward-angled headrest, it might take some fiddling to feel truly comfortable behind the wheel. The ride is pleasant, even with our tester's 18-inch wheels (the largest the Cruze offers). Mandatory engine stop-start is far from seamless.
Seat comfort
6.5
The front seats allow plenty of travel for tall drivers, while wider occupants might feel somewhat confined by the narrow seatbacks. There's no lumbar adjustment, the seat belt is not height-adjustable, and the headrests feel as if they are angled too far forward.
Ride comfort
8.0
The Cruze expertly soaks up bumps and imperfections. Road feel is more pronounced with the RS package's 18-inch wheels, but the ride is rarely choppy or harsh. If you prize comfort over sportiness, lower trims, or even the standard Premier, are more compliant.
Noise & vibration
7.5
At highway speeds, wind and engine noise is kept to a minimum, while road noise is present but not overwhelming. You'll feel a mild shock through the cabin when the Cruze's stop-start feature turns the engine off and on.
Climate control
7.0
The Premier's automatic single-zone climate control works well to keep the interior at a comfortable temperature. In heavy traffic, the stop-start system frequently turns the engine off and reduces fan speed, causing cabin temperatures to rise while stationary.
Interior
8.0
The Cruze might be classified as a compact car, but few will find the cabin confining. There's plenty of shoulder room for all outboard passengers. The raised center tunnel limits the usefulness of the narrow middle seat. The controls and gauges are mostly easy to get along with.
Ease of use
7.5
We like the Cruze's clear gauges and intuitive steering-mounted controls. Most of the switches and knobs on the center stack are within the driver's reach; only the temperature knob requires a stretch to reach and turn. Manual gear-selector buttons are awkwardly located on top of the shifter.
Getting in/getting out
7.5
The Cruze's wide door openings, high roof and minimal seat bolstering make it extremely easy to get into and out of the front seats. The slope of the roof makes back-row access a bit more difficult.
Driving position
8.5
The steering wheel and driver's seat both have a good range of motion, so most people will be able to find an agreeable seating position. The front of the seat bottom doesn't raise up as much as we'd like, but this is common for this class.
Roominess
8.0
The cabin has enough legroom to seat four 6-foot-tall people with few complaints. And the cabin is wide enough that occupants won't rub elbows. But, even with headliner cutouts, the sloping roof could compel tall rear passengers to slouch.
Visibility
8.5
There's good forward and side visibility thanks to a low hood, tall windows and relatively narrow rear pillars. The high-mounted shelf reduces rearward visibility, but a standard backup camera and optional parking sensors and cross-traffic alert make this a non-issue.
Quality
7.5
With a glossy black trim center console, faux leather surfaces on the dash and contrast-color stitching throughout, the Cruze's cabin looks and feels premium. Excessive chrome trim can be blinding in bright sunlight, and our tester's squeaky brake pedal was irksome.
Utility
8.0
Like many compact sedans, the Cruze has a sizable cargo area with a flat load floor and little intrusion from the wheelwells. The 60/40-split rear seats fold down should you need extra space. Inside, there are numerous cubbies for you and your friends to store various small items.
Small-item storage
8.0
Storage cubbies in each door can hold a water bottle and a few small items. There are two regular cupholders in the front row and two more in the fold-down rear armrest. The optional wireless charging slot eats up a significant amount of front console storage.
Cargo space
8.0
The generous trunklid opens to reveal a deep well that feels big. But the volume shrinks from 14.9 cubic feet to a more typical 13.8 cubic feet (less than a Civic, more than a Mazda 3) if you buy an LT or a Premier because they come with a spare tire that takes up cargo space.
Child safety seat accommodation
8.5
Each of the outboard rear seats has a pair of LATCH anchors hidden under clearly marked covers that are easily pushed aside. The three upper anchors are located on top of the rear shelf and are similarly accessible.
Technology
8.0
Other than the subpar performance of its voice recognition software, the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system is one of the best in the business. The interface is attractive, uncluttered and, most important, easy to learn and operate. Standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is a major plus.
Audio & navigation
9.0
Chevrolet's MyLink system is exceptionally easy to use. Drivers can program presets with destinations for the navigation system or channels from any radio band. It seems quicker to react to user inputs than earlier versions of MyLink.
Smartphone integration
9.0
Pairing a phone to the Bluetooth system is simple and quick. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality are included on every Cruze, as are an auxiliary input and a USB port. Our tester's Enhanced Convenience package also adds wireless smartphone charging.
Driver aids
8.0
Standard and optional safety features are in line with the rest of the class, which is a testament to how much tech is available in this segment. The Premier-only Driver Confidence II package adds lane departure warning, lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring.
Voice control
7.0
The MyLink system is good at recognizing names in your phonebook, but attempting to navigate to an address is an exercise in frustration. Press and hold the voice button longer, however, and you can do it via Siri or Google Voice on your paired smartphone.
Which Cruze does Edmunds recommend?
We're not fond of the standard 1.4-liter engine, but the diesel engine's significant price premium — at least when new — makes it hard to justify. As such, it's probably best to get the gas engine in the midrange LT trim. The LT has a decent mix of options yet remains competitively priced. Look for the optional Driver Confidence and Driver Convenience packages to get some extra safety and, yes, convenience features.
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
2018 Chevrolet Cruze models
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is a compact sedan or hatchback. The sedan is available in L, LS, LT and Premier trim levels, while the hatch comes in LT and Premier only. Powering most Cruze trims is a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine (153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque). The optional diesel engine is only available as the LT Diesel trim in either body type.
The L is only available to dealers through custom ordering. Standard equipment includes 15-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, remote locking and unlocking, air conditioning, a six-way manually adjustable driver's seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, Bluetooth connectivity, a four-speaker audio system with a USB port, OnStar (with 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspot), a rearview camera, and a MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch central touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone app integration. A six-speed manual is the only transmission available.
Much more common is the LS, which is similarly equipped but adds a front center armrest and carpeted floor mats. It can also be equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and a range of dealer-installed options.
Our recommended trim, the LT, steps up to 16-inch alloy wheels, upgraded headlights with LED running lights, heated mirrors, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted phone and audio controls, a rear center armrest with cupholders, and a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio. Hatchback models also get a cargo cover and rear spoiler. A charge-only USB port is added to models equipped with the automatic transmission, while manual-equipped models have a front armrest with a sliding feature.
For the LT, the optional Convenience package adds keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats, an eight-way power driver's seat and remote engine start (with the automatic transmission).
The LT Diesel is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel (137 hp, 240 lb-ft) and adds the contents of the Convenience package minus remote start. The available Leather package adds a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery and a height-adjustable front passenger seat.
The Cruze Premier gets all of the above plus 17-inch wheels, an upgraded rear suspension, chrome exterior accents, ambient interior lighting and illuminated vanity mirrors.
Both the LT and the Premier offer an RS Appearance package (foglights, a rear spoiler, a sport body kit and 18-inch wheels for Premier models) and a Sun and Sound package that includes a sunroof, a color driver information center, ambient interior lighting, a larger 8-inch center touchscreen display and a nine-speaker Bose audio system. A navigation system is also available for this package on the Premier.
The LT and the Premier are also eligible for the Driver Confidence package, which consists of rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Confidence II package, offered only on the Premier, adds automatic high-beam headlight control, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning and intervention.
The Driver Confidence, Sun and Sound package, offered only on the LT Diesel with the automatic transmission, combines the contents of the Sun and Sound package with the Driver Confidence package. The Premier-exclusive Enhanced Convenience package throws in an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic climate control, heated rear outboard seats, wireless personal device charging and a 110-volt, household-style power outlet.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze L 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.08 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Chevrolet Cruze from 2008-2022.
$496/yr
vs. $416/yr for Average Compact Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).
1.15x/yr
vs. 1.01x/yr for Average Compact Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).
13.4%
vs. 10.4% for Average Compact Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
2018 Chevrolet Cruze L 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
I’ve had this car for 6 weeks. Previously I drove a 2008 Hyundai Elantra manual. This is an automatic. I’m slowly getting used to not having control over shifting thus the transmission rating for me personally. Unlike most others I like the auto-stop feature, so my review is mostly about that. It’s not as jerky as some have written. It doesn’t engage when you’re turning corners—you … need to be at a full stop and it engages after a few seconds, only if the cabin temperature is sensed to be as cool as your setting. If you change any setting at all the engine re-engages. It also does this if the temperature rises, but always in less than two minutes so it doesn’t drain the auxiliary battery. The auxiliary battery and starter are under the trunk liner—it doesn’t use the main ones. It’s not loud. It starts up instantaneously. My average speed over 6 weeks is 21 mph and I’m getting 28.2 mpg, all local city driving, not highway. A lot of people don’t like this feature, but I encourage those on the fence to try it out for a few days as a rental or loaner from your dealer. Another feature I love—although I have a base model I somehow scored a seven speaker sound system instead of the four. My Elantra was a “sport” model. This rides smoother, is quieter, more solidly built, and handles as well as the Elantra. It has great acceleration—no problem scooting over and passing at all. It has more inside room than I thought it would. Three boys in boosters fit in the rear seat. The inside trim isn’t high quality, but I don’t cause a lot of wear and tear there. I have Arctic Blue Metallic and I love the color. The exterior design is more attractive than the Focus, Accent, or Fortè. All in all I’m extremely happy with the 2018 Cruze. I’m leasing mine and with zero down—truly zero—and $2500 trade in I will have paid $5832 cash out of pocket over 36 months at 10,000 miles per year. $8332 including my trade.
Update 2/10/2019
The car handles well on the ice and in the snow. No rain worries either. I’m at 5900 miles and still love the car. I’ve updated the mpg and mileage below.
Crusin' in the Cruze
5 out of 5 stars
Brian Young, 10/02/2018
2018 Chevrolet Cruze LT 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
This is a very satisfying car to drive. Since it is an LT is doesn't have the larger wheels and lower profile tires of the Premier model resulting in a very quiet and smooth ride. Handling is still very good with great steering and good directional stability. We are a retired couple and don't get too excited about all the electronics available on these newer cars, however blind spot … warning and rear park assist would be nice to have (and are available on Cruze but ours doesn't have them). We are averaging over 40 mpg with mostly highway driving. The back seat room is fine and trunk space very good. We have experienced no problems of any kind after more than 5000 miles of driving.
Update: Now have 13500 miles on the Cruze and no problems whatsoever. Still getting over 40 mpg on average and enjoying the great driving characteristics.
Sporty for this old guy
5 out of 5 stars
Ronald Turton, 02/22/2018
2018 Chevrolet Cruze Premier 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Good highway performance maintains speed with little effort. Feels solid I love the appearance was going to buy Ford Escape and tool Cruz for test drive and I thought this is car for me. Three reason style ride and performance between 40 and 42 miles per gallon on highway.
GREAT car not too small, HUGE improvement overall
5 out of 5 stars
Tony, 06/26/2018
2018 Chevrolet Cruze LT 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
Actually a Great car for the price, can beat MPG at a constant 68 MPH. Very decent acceleration, but if you want a little more pop, go into tap shift and let revs go a bit higher. I notice Edmunds erroneously states that you cannot over ride the engine start/stop feature. That is untrue, if you are in tap shift mode start/stop is disabled. Much better legroom in 2nd row compared to prior … generation, and the added center console was a much desired feature. Big plus for the simplicity and clarity of dashboard information, ant the LARGE Radio screen ( also where the rearview camera displays ) is bright, clear, easy to understand large icons, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto feature links your phone. Bluetooth is equally simple, and nice crisp clear sound.
Looking for a small sedan with a surprising amount of room for you and your passengers? The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze might be a good match. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
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Scorecard
