2017 Chevrolet Cruze

Overview

In the highly competitive small-car segment, candidates are more likely to offer sporting characteristics than luxury features. The Chevrolet Cruze bucks this convention with a soft ride reminiscent of an upscale sedan, an exceptionally quiet cabin, and a complement of standard infotainment features. Dynamically, it lacks the handling sharpness of the Volkswagen Golf or the Mazda 3. Rather, the Cruze is an affordable facsimile of a pricier vehicle, a small car that coddles you—and who doesn’t want to be coddled?

What's New for 2017?

After a complete redesign for 2016, Chevrolet continues to add to the Cruze portfolio. A new hatchback model hit dealer lots in fall 2016, and a diesel sedan followed in spring 2017. There are also minor technology updates and the option of a rear-seat USB port in certain models.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Cruze's base powertrain combines a lively 153-hp turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder with a six-speed manual transmission. In our experience, the manual’s tall gearing puts the Cruze to sleep around town. Outfitted with the optional six-speed automatic, however, the Cruze is eager to accelerate and expertly avoids the weaker, noisier, part of the engine’s rev range above 5500 rpm. Another engine choice—available on sedan models only—is an economical and torquey 137-hp 1.6-liter turbodiesel that mates to either a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Cruze feels substantial on the road, larger and more stable than its dimensions would suggest. Its supple ride, relaxed handling, comfy seats, and impressively quiet interior make it the long-distance cruiser of this class. If you’re looking for a sporty driving experience in your small car, however, there are several better choices. The Cruze’s soft suspension causes it to feel imprecise when driven aggressively in corners, but the payoff is a smooth ride over bumps and potholes.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Depending on trim level, the Cruze’s cabin can be optioned to a surprisingly upscale level for a compact car, but many Cruze buyers will be priced out of these desirable extras. The Cruze comes with very few standard amenities. The cloth seats found in the base models are comfortable, but buyers will have to opt up to the Premier trim before you can get a power-adjustable driver’s seat as standard. The Premier’s optional heated steering wheel and bun-warming rear seats are a treat in this segment. Despite its diminutive dimensions, the Cruze carries as much cargo as many mid-size sedans, and it matches many of its rivals for carry-on luggage stowage. In both the sedan and the hatchback, the Cruze’s rear seats fold easily via a lever mounted on the top of each outboard rear seat.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system is excellent, and the Cruze gives buyers access to technology such as 4G LTE connectivity. Featured on a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen with a row of redundant buttons for key functions, MyLink is a simple system that most users will easily understand. Navigation is only available in Premier models, but owners of base-model cars can use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to source directions from a smartphone.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Chevrolet Cruze’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.