33 MPG combined won’t set any fuel economy records, but for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze Premier with the 1.4L turbo, it’s a fine balance of efficiency and everyday usability that appeals to a specific buyer. This isn’t someone chasing hypermiling numbers; it’s the practical commuter, the small family needing an affordable and reliable car, or the rideshare driver who values a blend of comfort, features, and reasonable running costs. The Cruze Premier delivers on that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 29 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway accurately reflect what you can expect with a careful driving style. The Cruze’s 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate pep for urban driving, relying on its low-end torque to get you moving. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

On the highway, the Cruze is great. Its relatively aerodynamic profile and well-calibrated gearing allow it to cruise comfortably at highway speeds while maintaining excellent fuel economy. The Premier trim adds features like cruise control and a quieter cabin, further enhancing the highway driving experience. Aggressively chasing gaps in traffic will hurt city mileage, and sustained uphill climbs on the open road will lessen highway efficiency, but the EPA numbers provide a solid benchmark for realistic expectations.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze Premier 1.4L at exactly $1,350. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel prices at the time of the EPA’s testing.

Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. However, this $1,350 figure provides a valuable point of comparison when evaluating the overall cost of ownership for the Cruze against other vehicles in its class. It illustrates that the CRUZE MPG across all years results in generally affordable running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Some drivers have seen figures close to the EPA estimates, with some even exceeding the 39 MPG highway rating on long trips at steady speeds. However, aggressive driving, heavy traffic, and frequent short trips can significantly reduce fuel economy.

Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the type of fuel used can also play a role. A lead foot can easily drop your combined MPG into the high 20s, while consciously using fuel-saving techniques can push it closer to, or even slightly above, 40 MPG on the highway. It’s all about individual driving habits and conditions.

How it compares

In the compact sedan segment, the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze Premier’s fuel economy is competitive. The Honda Civic EX with its 1.5L turbocharged engine achieves an EPA-rated 42 MPG on the highway, giving it a slight edge. The Toyota Corolla LE, known for its reliability, delivers around 38 MPG on the highway, nearly matching the Cruze.

However, the Cruze Premier often offers a more comfortable ride and a more generous list of features than some of its rivals, making it a good choice for those who prioritize comfort and amenities alongside fuel efficiency. Someone prioritizing raw MPG at all costs might lean towards a Civic, but the slight trade-off in the Cruze is acceptable when factoring in the Premier trim’s more upscale appeal and user-friendly infotainment system. For all Chevrolet fuel economy data, look at Chevrolet models across our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in the Cruze. The 1.4L turbo responds well to smooth inputs. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration or hard braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.

Proper tire inflation is critical for optimal fuel economy and tire life. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling time. If you’re waiting for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for an extended period. This is especially important in urban environments with frequent stops.

Regular maintenance is essential for maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Keep your engine properly tuned, and ensure that the air filter is clean. A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, which can reduce fuel economy. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your Cruze running smoothly and efficiently.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. Be mindful of hills and traffic conditions, as cruise control may not always be the most efficient option in these situations. Adjust your speed manually as needed to maintain a consistent throttle position and avoid unnecessary acceleration or deceleration.