In order to avoid choosing the worst Chevrolet Cruze model, we ranked each Chevrolet Cruze model for every generation.
Throughout this ultimate manual, I analyze all Chevrolet Cruze generations, so you can figure out which are the best Chevy Cruze generations to buy and which are the worst.
I have gathered information about owner complaints, recalls, and more for Chevrolet Cruze based on data from trusted sources like NHTSA, Edmunds.
When you know which year Chevy Cruze is the most reliable year and which year Chevy Cruze is the most problematic, you’ll be able to purchase a Chevy Cruze with confidence.
Let’s dive right in.
Chevrolet Cruze Generations
In response to the growing demand for fuel-efficient compact sedans, General Motors introduced the Chevrolet Cruze in 2008 globally and in 2010 as a 2011 model. As one of the most popular models in its category, the Cruze was well known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior.
From its introduction in 2011 to its final discontinuation in 2019, I tabulated the generations of the Chevrolet Cruze.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (J300) | 2011-2015 |
| 2nd generation (D2LC) | 2016-2019 |
A buyer’s decision can be impacted significantly when recognizing generational transitions, especially when choosing a different model year.
Chevrolet Cruze Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
Based on comprehensive research, our rankings evaluating and categorizing Chevrolet Cruze’s best and worst years include, but are not limited to:
Lastly, you will find a graph displaying combined ratings from the sources listed above.
As a result of the accumulated data, I’ve tabulated the best, neutral, and worst model years of the Chevy Cruze below.
| Generation | Best Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (J300) | 2015 | 2011 2012 2013 2014 |
| 2nd generation (D2LC) | 2017 2018 2019 | 2016 |
A “neutral year” is one that has an average performance without the highs or lows of a high or low model year.
A negative rating can be negatively affected by a number of factors, such as a recall by the NHTSA. When a car experiences a high number of complaints and recalls during a particular year, it is perceived as being less reliable.
Our next step will be to examine the specifications of Chevy Cruze’s prime years, neutral years, and worst years.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Cruze 1st Generation (2011-2015)
In 2011, Chevrolet made the big leap into the compact car segment with the introduction of the Chevrolet Cruze.
Among Chevy Cruze years this generation, 2015 is the most reliable and best-performing year, while 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 have been criticized for engine and transmission problems.
The Best Years: 2015
The best year for the Chevrolet Cruze this generation – 2015 – is the result of Chevrolet’s response to customer feedback and issues from previous years. According to Edmunds, J.D. Power, and Cars.com, the first-generation Chevy Cruze is the best.
A number of engine options were available for the 2015 Cruze, including a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, available with either manual or automatic transmission.
As part of the Cruze’s design aimed at modern consumers and with an emphasis on fuel efficiency, it offered a combination of 17 mpg in town and 36 mpg on the highway.
As well as the updated infotainment system this year, the vehicle includes rear cross-traffic alerts and blind-spot monitoring.
However, there were a few issues with the 2015 Chevy Cruze. In contrast to earlier models, there were sporadic and less widespread electrical glitches reported by some owners.
The Worst Years: 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
Chevy Cruze models from 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 should be avoided due to engine, transmission, and electrical system issues. These are some of the problems and recalls associated with the 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 Chevy Cruze:
There were multiple recalls associated with the 2011 Chevy Cruze, including one that covered the potential for oil leakage from the valve cover gasket and the steering gear shaft. Many complaints regarding electrical problems were reported, including transmission hesitations, jerking, and many complaints regarding transmission jerking.
Despite its improvements, the 2012 Chevy Cruze’s engine and transmission continued to have problems. It became apparent that the “Stabilitrak” light was intermittently illuminated due to electrical problems.
Additionally, 2013 and 2014 Chevy Cruzes suffered from inherited problems, especially with their engines and transmissions, as shown by their reliability ratings and owner satisfaction statistics.
Several recalls have been issued due to the possibility of a fractured half shaft in the front right half shaft, which can lead to power loss or a potential rollaway when parked.
Recalls and complaints for the Chevrolet Cruze from 2011 to 2014 can be found at NHTSA.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Cruze 2nd Generation (2016-2019)
With the introduction of the second generation Chevrolet Cruze in 2016, a new level of efficiency, efficacy, and technological advancements was introduced.
It is recommended to avoid the 2016 Chevy Cruze year, while 2017 and 2018 are the best years of this generation.
The Best Years: 2017, 2018, 2019
What is the most reliable year of the Chevy Cruze? There are three best years for Chevrolet Cruze in this generation: 2017, 2018, and 2019.
With the 2017 Chevy Cruze, the Cruze entered a crucial stage of its life cycle. In addition to its efficiency and improved power delivery, the model was available with a 1.4-liter turbo-four engine.
In addition, Chevrolet offers a 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine as an option. As for fuel economy, the vehicle produced 19 mpg for city driving and 47 mpg for highway driving.
There are a number of advanced technological features that owners found to be very useful, including an infotainment system that integrates better with smartphones, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist.
With the addition of the Hatchback variant, trim levels for the 2018 Chevy Cruze increased. Several safety features were introduced, including forward collision warning and low-speed automatic emergency braking.
According to J.D Power, the 2019 Chevy Cruze received favorable owner satisfaction ratings, similar to its predecessors.
The Worst Years: 2016
The Chevrolet Cruze should be avoided in 2016 due to numerous NHTSA complaints and low user ratings.
Several reports of electrical system malfunctions emerged soon after the 2016 Chevy Cruze was introduced.
There have been numerous complaints about issues with the engine and transmission, and specifically the thermostat housing unit can leak coolant due to cracks.
The company also had to deal with multiple electrical problems and exterior lighting problems in addition to mechanical problems.
Recalls and complaints regarding the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze can be found on the NHTSA website.
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Conclusion
As one navigates through the Chevy Cruze’s history, it becomes apparent that some years stand out more than others. My recommendation is to gravitate towards the 2015 and 2017-2019 models for the best blend of efficiency and reliability.
Are there any Chevrolet Cruze years that you have personally experienced that you would recommend? In your opinion, which Cruze model has the highest level of reliability?
Feel free to comment below and share your perspective!