The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze Premier Hatchback achieves 31 MPG combined. This respectable number allows this practical and comfortable hatchback to handle everyday use without excessive trips to the gas station. While not a hybrid or an EV, it offers a good balance of efficiency and usability for buyers who appreciate a well-equipped, versatile vehicle and don’t want to sacrifice fuel economy for cargo capacity or passenger space.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Cruze Premier Hatchback at 28 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the car’s performance well. The 28 MPG city figure makes it a competent commuter, and the turbocharged 1.4L engine provides enough low-end torque to navigate stop-and-go traffic without feeling strained. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly to keep the engine in its most efficient range. The highway mileage is a real strength. The 37 MPG highway rating allows for comfortable, economical longer trips, making it well-suited for road trips or commutes with extended highway driving where the Cruze can perform efficiently. The vehicle’s relatively low weight also helps these highway MPG numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze Premier Hatchback is $1,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a useful benchmark for comparing the Cruze to other vehicles, but your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. This figure represents what you can expect to spend on fuel with average use.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often varies. Drivers report that achieving the EPA’s 37 MPG highway rating is easily done, especially on longer trips at consistent speeds.

City MPG can fluctuate more depending on traffic conditions and driving style. Aggressive drivers will see lower numbers, while those who prioritize smooth acceleration and anticipate traffic flow can often match or even exceed the 28 MPG estimate. Regular maintenance, such as keeping tires properly inflated and using the recommended grade of gasoline, is also important for maintaining good fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2018 CRUZE MPG across all years competes well against other compact hatchbacks. For instance, the Honda Civic Hatchback with its 1.5L turbocharged engine achieves around 31 MPG combined in LX trim, matching the Cruze. However, higher trims of the Civic, like the Sport Touring, can see slightly lower fuel economy due to increased weight and performance-oriented features. The Mazda3 Hatchback with its 2.5L engine delivers around 28 MPG combined. The Toyota Corolla Hatchback achieves 32 MPG combined overall, slightly edging out the Cruze. These small MPG differences are significant to very cost conscious buyers. Buyers considering all Chevrolet fuel economy data should carefully weigh their driving needs and trim preferences.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important for optimizing fuel economy in the Cruze. The small displacement turbo engine responds well to smooth inputs and avoids unnecessary fuel consumption during acceleration. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid hard braking, which wastes kinetic energy.

Regularly check your tire pressure and maintain it at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. This is an easy and often overlooked way to improve mileage.

Minimize idling time. The Cruze has a small engine, but idling still consumes fuel. Turn off the engine when waiting for more than a minute or two, especially in congested areas.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed improves fuel economy and reduces driver fatigue. On long trips, cruise control helps you to achieve the best possible MPG.

Consider using the recommended fuel grade. The Cruze can run on regular unleaded gasoline, but using the manufacturer-recommended fuel can ensure optimal engine performance and possibly improve fuel efficiency.