2018 Chevrolet Cruze: A Detailed Overview
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze offers a compelling blend of efficiency, modern technology, and comfortable practicality, making it a strong contender in the compact sedan and hatchback segments. With its refined ride and a suite of available safety and convenience features, the Cruze aims to provide a well-rounded ownership experience for a variety of drivers.
Highlights
Engine Options:
- 1.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This is the standard engine for most trims, delivering an EPA-estimated 28 MPG city and 30 MPG combined (sedan) or 27 MPG city and 29 MPG combined (hatchback). It's paired with either a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission, offering a good balance of performance and fuel economy for everyday driving.
- 1.6L Turbocharged Diesel Four-Cylinder (available on LT Diesel and Premier Diesel trims): This optional diesel engine provides an impressive EPA-estimated 37 MPG city and 40 MPG combined (sedan) or 31 MPG city and 33 MPG combined (hatchback). It offers significantly better fuel efficiency and also boasts a bit more torque, which can be beneficial for acceleration. This engine is exclusively paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Safety Features: The 2018 Cruze offers a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, many of which are available as optional extras or come standard on higher trims, contributing to peace of mind on the road.
- Available Forward Collision Alert: This system uses radar to detect potential front-end collisions and provides audible and visual warnings to the driver, allowing them time to react and brake.
- Available Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist: Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver when the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane. Lane Keep Assist actively provides steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Available Automatic Emergency Braking: In situations where a collision is imminent, this system can automatically apply the brakes to reduce the severity of the impact or avoid it altogether.
- Available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: When backing out of a parking space, this system warns the driver of approaching vehicles from either side.
- Available Blind Zone Alert: This feature monitors the driver's blind spots and alerts them if a vehicle is detected, preventing potential side-swipe accidents when changing lanes.
- Standard Rearview Camera: Essential for safe backing up, the rearview camera displays the area behind the vehicle on the infotainment screen.
Summary of Trims: The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is offered in several distinct trims, each building upon the features of the previous one, allowing buyers to tailor their vehicle to their needs and budget.
- L: The entry-level L trim provides the essential features for a compact car, including the standard 1.4L turbocharged engine, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- LS: Building on the L, the LS trim adds features like cruise control and a rear-seat center armrest for enhanced comfort.
- LT: The mid-range LT trim is often the sweet spot for many buyers, offering a more robust package. It typically includes features like a satellite radio, a driver's seat lumbar adjustment, and the availability of more advanced safety features and the diesel engine.
- Premier: The top-tier Premier trim elevates the Cruze experience with premium amenities. This can include leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a steering wheel-mounted shift lever, and upgraded exterior styling elements. It also makes more advanced safety features standard or readily available.
- Diesel Trims (LT Diesel and Premier Diesel): These trims are specifically equipped with the efficient 1.6L turbo-diesel engine and the 9-speed automatic transmission, offering superior fuel economy for long-distance commuters.
Other Notable Aspects:
- Hatchback Option: For those seeking more cargo versatility, the Cruze is also available as a five-door hatchback, offering a more practical cargo area compared to the sedan.
- Comfortable Ride: The Cruze is known for its comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections well, making it a pleasant car for daily commutes and longer journeys.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, featuring standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration on most trims, is intuitive and easy to use, keeping occupants connected and entertained.
What to Expect
Owning a 2018 Chevrolet Cruze typically involves a reliable and practical experience. The compact car segment is generally characterized by lower ownership costs, and the Cruze generally aligns with this expectation.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, will be necessary at recommended intervals. The 1.4L turbocharged engine is generally considered reliable, but like any turbocharged engine, it may require attention to turbocharger components over time. The diesel engine, while known for its longevity, may have slightly different maintenance requirements, particularly concerning fuel filters and emissions systems. It's advisable to consult the owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze are generally competitive within the compact car class. Factors influencing premiums will include your driving record, location, chosen trim level, and selected insurance coverage. The Cruze's strong safety ratings can contribute to more favorable insurance rates.
- Resale Value: The Cruze generally holds its value reasonably well within the compact segment, though it may not depreciate as slowly as some of its Japanese competitors. However, opting for a well-maintained vehicle with desirable features can help maximize its resale value.
Potential Considerations
While the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is a solid option, there are a few potential drawbacks or aspects buyers should be aware of before making a decision.
- Base Engine Performance: The standard 1.4L turbocharged engine provides adequate power for most situations, but acceleration can feel somewhat uninspired, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. Drivers seeking more spirited performance might find it lacking.
- Interior Materials: While the interior is well-designed and functional, some of the interior materials, particularly on lower trims, might not feel as premium as those found in some competitors. This is a common trade-off in the compact segment.
- Road Noise: At higher speeds, some road and wind noise can penetrate the cabin, which might be noticeable to drivers who prioritize a truly quiet interior.
- Limited Standard Safety Features on Lower Trims: While advanced safety features are available, many are optional or only standard on higher trims. Buyers on a budget might need to compromise on some of these advanced driver-assistance systems.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze stands out as a competent and versatile compact car, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. It offers an appealing combination of fuel efficiency (especially with the diesel option), a comfortable ride, and a user-friendly technology interface with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With a wide array of available advanced safety features, it provides a secure driving experience. While its base engine performance might not thrill every driver and some interior materials could be more upscale, the Cruze remains a practical and well-equipped choice for those seeking an efficient and comfortable daily driver in the competitive compact car market.