Chevrolet Cruze

Fuel economy, running costs and specs by model year

The Chevrolet Cruze appears in this database in 4 model years, from 2016 to 2019, offered with diesel and gasoline power. Combined economy ranges from 26 to 37 MPG across those years, with annual fuel costs of $1,900 to $2,700 at 15,000 miles.

Fuel economy by year

How it compares

Against the average midsize cars in this dataset (about 32 MPG), the Cruze sits roughly 1 MPG below that mark on average, making it a thirstier-than-average choice for its class.

Five-year fuel cost

Fuelling a Cruze for five years at the EPA's 15,000-mile basis costs roughly $9,500 to $13,500, averaging about $11,500 across the versions here. That is the energy bill alone — it excludes insurance, maintenance and depreciation, which for most owners together exceed what goes into the tank.

The range within the range

Economy across the Cruze varies by about 11 MPG between its most and least frugal versions, which run on diesel and gasoline. Engine size, turbocharging, drivetrain and even wheel size explain most of that gap, so when you shop a used Cruze check which version you are looking at before comparing its running cost to another car.

How it changed over time

Between 2016 and 2019 the Cruze's average combined economy improved from about 30 to 34 MPG. Redesigns, new engines and added hybrid or electric versions are usually what move the number, so the year you choose can matter as much as the model.

Best year for fuel economy

The 2018 Cruze has the strongest average combined economy in this database at about 34 MPG, while the 2016 is the lowest at about 31 MPG. If running cost is your priority, that is the year to target on the used market; later years may add equipment or safety features instead.

2019 Cruze at a glance

Use the comparison tool to set the Cruze against a rival, or go back to all Chevrolet models.