The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze offers sleek style and a modern ride, but limited engine options make it dull compared to other compacts. While less costly, entry trims lack options, leaving LT and above the ideal choice for most.
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2018 Chevrolet Cruze: Quick Overview
- The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze was available in five trims, 13 paint options, and in gas and diesel versions.
- Costing $18,500-$25,000 at launch, the 2018 model currently goes for $11,000-$26,000 on the used market.
- Only two engines were offered, with the 1.4L gas version getting 153 hp, and the 1.6L turbo-diesel offering 137 hp.
- Chevy’s 2018 Cruze earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, and passed the IIHS crashworthiness tests with a top score.
- Road-tests proved to be underwhelming, but the Cruze ranks #2 in U.S. News’ list of top compact cars for 2018. It still remains a good car for the price.
2018 Chevy Cruze Trims: Comes Standard with Apple CarPlay, but Really Shines at LT & Above
There were four standard trims created for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze and one for the Diesel.
Entry-Level Cruze L Has Few Basic Options but Surprises with Apple CarPlay: Sold only as the sedan, you will zip through the streets using the 1.4L 153 horsepower four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. Cloth seats, air-conditioning, and a rear vision camera see to all the basics. You get Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth streaming, and a built-in Wi-Fi hot spot that requires a subscription.
Cruze LS Adds Several Essentials Like Remote Keyless Entry: The LS is nearly a repeat of the L, except that you are treated to carpeted floor mats and a three-spoke steering wheel. The center console also includes an armrest. Teen Driver system and remote entry are also part of the plan.
The Cruze LT Shines with Many Standard/Available Modern Tech & Safety Features: Find the most popular upgrades on the LT as either the sedan or hatchback. Cruise control, 16-inch aluminum wheels, a split-folding rear seat, and heated power side mirrors expand its abilities while adding to its allure. There is also a SiriusXM satellite receiver waiting to be activated. You still have a manual driver’s seat unless it is loaded with the Convenience Package, which adds a smart key, heated seats, and a power driver’s seat.
The Technology Package was offered on the LT and above models, and upgrades your radio to a Bose eight- or nine-speaker surround sound system. There is also a digital driver information display added to the instrument cluster. Additionally, the optional Driver Confidence I Package alerts you if another car is traveling in your blind spot, crossing behind you when backing out, or if you drift out of your lane.
The Sun and Sound Package adds a power sunroof, an upgraded sound system, and ambient lighting.
For a sportier look, the Redline Package adds black badging, red accents, black light surrounds, and black mirror caps. For an even sportier appearance, the RS Package added a spoiler, body kit, fog lamps, 18-inch wheels, and RS badging.
Cruze Premier Improves Exterior Styling & Upgrades to Nine-speed Transmission with Start/Stop Tech: Chrome strips and 17-inch aluminum wheels dress up your vehicle in the Premier. A rear Z-link suspension delivers a more controlled ride. The nine-speed automatic transmission introduces start/stop technology for improved fuel economy. Remote start, a heated steering wheel, and leather-trimmed heated front seats add more upscale amenities. The smart key unlocks the doors and primes the ignition without leaving your pocket.
One thing you might find exclusively on Premier, the Driver Confidence II Package adds smart high beams, following-distance alert, and pedestrian detection. It does not have any autonomous systems, such as emergency braking or lane departure mitigation.
Another add-on bundle is the Enhanced Convenience Package, which adds automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging, heated rear seats, and a 110-volt power outlet.
For a really top-of-the-line Cruze, look for the Sun and Sound with Navigation Package, which adds a larger eight-inch color touchscreen with navigation and a power sunroof.
Cruze Diesel is Fuel-Efficient Alternative to LT Trim but Adds a Few Creature Comforts: Drive all day in the sedan with a manual transmission and earn an EPA-estimated 48 mpg highway. The Diesel is also available as a hatch, and is nicely appointed similar to the LT trim, along with heated front seats, remote start, and smart key.
Prices for a Used 2018 Chevy Cruze L Starts Around $11,500
We checked with Kelley Blue Book for current pricing for a used 2018 Chevrolet Cruze. Here’s what we found:
- L: $11,500 to $13,600
- LS: $14,300 to $14,400
- LT: $15,700 to $18,500
- Premier: $17,500 to $20,100
- Diesel: $14,400 to $17,000
2018 Chevrolet Cruze CPO Program Extends Warranty Coverage for a Premium
Since the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze has only been on the road for just three or four years, the model is eligible to participate in the GM Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. This means that the car is less than six years old, has less than 75,000 miles, has a clean title, and passed its vigorous vehicle inspection. When you purchase a CPO car from a GM dealer, it comes with a few more perks. You get a 12-month/12,000-mile, bumper-to-bumper warranty, the remainder of the factory powertrain warranty, a trial subscription for SiriusXM radio and OnStar systems, and scheduled free maintenance.
While all of that gives you some added confidence when buying used, you do pay a premium. Expect to spend an extra $1,000 on a CPO Cruze over one sold off a local used car lot.
Always do your due diligence and make sure that any car you buy has all of its recalls addressed before it leaves the lot.
2018 Cruze Engines Provide Enough Muscle at 153 HP to Power Your Daily Drives & Projects
The one engine offered for the gas trims is the 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 153 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque. For such a compact vehicle, it is really all the muscle required for your daily drive and picking up the kids.
Two transmissions were paired with the 1.4L: the six-speed manual, and a six-speed automatic with start/stop ability. As for the 1.6L diesel, it’s good for 137 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque, and came with the same manual or a nine-speed automatic with start/stop technology.
If you are worried about a lack of acceleration or the ability to attack corners, you may want to consider a different car. The Cruze engine packages are perfect for morning traffic jams and maneuvering through multiple stoplights.
How Fuel Efficient is a 2018 Chevrolet Cruze?
While the diesel 2018 Chevrolet Cruze steals the show on fuel economy, the rest of the lineup performs about average in the world of compact cars. If you do a lot of highway driving, it is possible to attain 40 mpg. However, city driving drops you into the upper 20 mpg world.
Compare the Cruze with other options at FuelEconomy.gov to make the best choice based on government testing and real-world usage.
Cruze models with the 1.4L engine and six-speed automatic transmission can expect about 27 mpg in the city, and 40 mpg on the highway. If you prefer a manual transmission, you’ll lose roughly 2 mpg in the city.
As for models with the 1.6L diesel and six-speed automatic, they have a potential of 29 mpg city, 48 mpg highway.
The Cruze does come with a decent-sized, 13.5-gallon fuel tank. This gives you a top driving range between 450 and 500 miles.
2018 Chevrolet Cruze Driving Performance’s High-end Acceleration is Average at Best
The 153 horsepower four-cylinder engine found on the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze should provide all the muscle needed for a confident morning commute. However, it is simply underwhelming in the performance department. You won’t beat anybody off the line at the stoplights, and high-end acceleration is average.
Per My Car Specs, it requires nine seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill, and completes a quarter-mile in 16.5 seconds.
It does come with traction control and a stability control system. However, taking tight corners at speed will have you lifting off the gas due to its stiff rear suspension. It was designed as a standard grocery-getter. If you are just running errands around town, you shouldn’t have any complaints regarding its capabilities.
2018 Chevrolet Cruze Dimensions & Capacity Make it a Practical Compact in Sedan or Hatchback
Both the sedan and hatch offer seating for five. The front seats are reasonably comfortable for most average-sized Americans. The back seats have just 36.1 inches of legroom, which is enough for a short ride for an adult. The kids will have plenty of elbow room.
The L and LS give you a folding rear bench seat, which expands the 14.8 cubic-foot trunk when you want to bring home longer items. On the LT trim and higher, it turns into a split-folding seat that takes away a cubic foot of standard trunk room, but gives you the choice of seating three while toting more soccer balls.
The hatch is actually competitive with other small SUVs in cargo capacity. There is an ample 22.7 cubic feet with the rear row occupied. Pack for a busy weekend with the back seat folded, and take advantage of 47.2 cubic feet.
Safety Highlights for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze performed well in crash simulations at the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).
The NHTSA awarded it a five-star Overall Safety Rating. An average male driver and smaller front passenger should be adequately protected from injury in a mid-speed frontal or side-impact accident. The rear seats only scored four stars in the side barrier and side pole impacts. If the car loses control during a high-speed incident, it has a 10.7% chance of rollover.
At the IIHS, it ranks Good in crashworthiness, which is the highest rank for its testing results. You may think this means that it should be listed as a Top Safety Pick. That is not the case. It does not offer the required forward emergency braking. Still, it passed all the structural requirements with flying colors.
If you plan on using the back seat for your baby seats, the LATCH system was given a Marginal score by the IIHS. The bottom anchors on the outboard seats are positioned too deep into the cushions. This requires excessive force to snap the seat into place. The center position only offers a top tether. Once the seats are in place, the LATCH system performs as needed in an emergency.
The rear-seat reminder sounds an alert when you turn off the ignition. It works if you opened the back door within 10 minutes of starting the car.
What about driver-assist technology? Blind spot and rear cross-traffic alerts are available on the LT, Diesel, and Premier with the Driver Confidence Package. You receive an audible and visual alert if another vehicle enters the danger zone. Only offered on the Premier as part of the Driver Confidence II Package, the forward collision alert sounds an alarm if a pedestrian is detected. The same applies to its following distance monitor. Only its Intellibeam headlights and lane departure assist are active systems. The headlights can switch to low automatically and lane departure will nudge your steering to keep you between the lines.
Featured Technology on the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is not overloaded with buttons and wireless wonders, but it has a fair share of modern conveniences included even on the base L trim.
Every vehicle has a seven-inch touchscreen that controls the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment center. Use the USB port to connect your smartphone to the system, and access Android Auto or Apple CarPlay functions. Speak up to place a hands-free call. If your kids need to stay connected on the ride to school, there is a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot able to support seven devices with an active subscription.
You can activate the OnStar system that provides access to roadside assistance, 911 response, navigation, and other concierge services.
Is this car for your new driver? Teen Driver technology allows you to restrict top speeds, set the volume on the radio, and even receive a report of car usage. It is a good tool for concerned parents, and helps your child to develop better habits about seat belts and leaving the smartphone off while on the road.
Do you have a favorite radio show or podcast? Activate the SiriusXM satellite radio and rock out to national stations no matter where you roam.
An upgrade for the rear vision camera on the LT and higher is available to take advantage of rear park assist. Bumper-mounted sensors sound an alarm if you are about to hit the trash cans or curb.
Color Combinations for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze
You may find your Chevrolet Cruze in one of 13 exterior colors. The L was only available in Summit White or Silver Ice Metallic. Other options include:
For the interior, Jet Black cloth is standard for the L, LS, and LT. The Premier adds leather seat appointments in Kalahari or Medium Atmosphere, with darker contrasting accents. A Medium Atmosphere cloth was offered on some LS and LT vehicles, unless they featured a Red Hot exterior.
How Reliable is the 2018 Chevy Cruze?
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze scores about average for cost of ownership and reliability at Repair Pal. They give it a four out of five stars. You may spend about $545 on maintenance and repairs every year. You can expect it will end up at the shop for a surprise fix about every two and half years. You have a one in 10 shot of the repair ending up being a major deal. Overall, it is just slightly more expensive, unreliable, and likely to have an expensive repair than other vehicles in the segment.
What Critics Say
Common Problems and Recalls Associated with the 2018 Chevy Cruze
While the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze does have 57 complaints registered with the NHTSA, it doesn’t have any major system that stands out as a common problem. Two drivers said their brakes did not bring the car to a stop during an accident, causing the collision. One stated that the auto stop/start failed at an intersection. Two complain of noises associated with the transmission.
At Car Complaints.com, the most common problem reported has to do with the engine, with three referring to the engine shutting off while driving. That may refer back to the few recalls that have been issued for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze.
The NHTSA issues a recall when a defect affects the safe performance of a vehicle. The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze has just three recalls out at this time. Not every recall will apply to every Cruze. You need to run your VIN through the NHTSA website or check with your repair shop to see if one is associated with your particular ride.
Campaign 18V304000 says there is a risk of a fuel leak during a rollover, possibly leading to a fire. It only applies to the LS trim. The dealer will install a lock ring on the fuel tank to prevent damage to a vapor sensor in the event of a rear-end collision.
If you have a 2018 Chevrolet Cruze with start/stop technology, campaign 20V668000 may apply to your ride. The transmission accumulator may be missing bolts due to an incorrect factory installation procedure. This can result in a loss of hydraulic fluid, and cause the car to stop functioning or possibly cause a fire. The dealer will inspect the questionable part, install any missing bolt, and test the system for function.
The last recall is campaign 18V576000, and applies to most Cruze vehicles. The rear brake calipers may not have been sufficiently coated, and this can cause gas pockets to form in the brake lines. Your dealer will simply bleed the brakes to ensure proper performance. Once the car has a complete brake repair with new calipers, the problem will be gone.
If you would like to know what kind of repairs your new-to-you Cruze has received over its lifetime, visit Vehicle History and enter its VIN to receive a comprehensive report, including recall status updates.
2018 Chevrolet Cruze Head-to-Head vs. Civic, Clubman, Mirage, 500 & Golf
If you know that you want to pilot a smaller sedan or hatchback, and are not quite sold on the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze, you might want to look at a few other models with comparable features, performance, or price.
2018 Honda Civic Costs More, but has Reliable, More Potent Powertrain
You will spend $3,000 to $5,000 more on a Civic compared to the Cruze, but you are rewarded with a vehicle known for its reliability. Sold as a sedan, coupe, or hatch, its base engine produces a competitive 158 hp with an optional 180-hp motor for your sporting soul. Driver-assist packages were available on all trim levels, so you can find a compact commuter car at a decent price that looks after your safety. It earned a Top Safety Pick at IIHS and a five-star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
2018 MINI Clubman is Praised Among Owners but Carries a Higher Price Tag
Owners ranked the 2018 MINI Clubman as their favorite small car based on their ratings at Vehicle History. Its quirky styling stands out in any crowd, while its interior is surprisingly spacious, with clever cubbies appearing in the door panels and seat backs. Its price tag is a bit spendy when compared to the Cruze, starting at around $22,000 for the base trim. Its three-cylinder engine produces just enough muscle to handle city streets. It was not tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is a Less Costly Cruze Alternative with Decent Safety Ratings
One of the most affordable options in the small car segment, you can slide into a top-tier 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage for as little as $15,000. Its 1.2L engine sips at gas, producing a highly competitive 43 mpg highway with its continuously variable transmission. You do give up space in the trunk. However, you still get hands-free calling, power windows, and air-conditioning. It gets a four-star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA, and scored Marginal on the IIHS driver-side front overlap impact test.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
2018 FIAT 500 Only Seats Four, but Costs Less Than Cruze L
Is the Cruze more car than you really need? You may love the FIAT 500 that sits right behind the MINI Clubman in owner satisfaction for small cars at Vehicle History. It seats up to four or fits you, a friend, and all your shopping bags. Slide behind the wheel for around $10,000, and then slip into the small parking spaces that everybody else avoids. Rear parking sensors, cruise control, and Bluetooth technology take care of you on the highway and around town.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI
When you need something seriously sporty that still fits into your parking spot, take a good look at the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI. It was awarded the Owner’s Choice award at Vehicle History. You are treated to 220 hp for tons of fun. Hit the paddle shifters to work through the six-speed, auto-shift transmission while you settle back into the heated power sport driver’s seat. Load up for a weekend escape with its large rear hatch. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included on its color touchscreen infotainment center.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
Conclusion
When you take everything into consideration, the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze could be just the right car for you. It has just enough of all the basics so that you will enjoy your morning drive while getting decent fuel economy. There is room for you, the kids, and your backpacks. It scores very well on owner loyalty reviews, and has very few recalls or complaints associated with the year. Best of all, it features some sleek styling that will be the envy of the neighborhood.
Photos: Chevrolet
