Hey car enthusiasts! Are you guys considering a used 2017 Chevy Cruze? That's a great choice, and to help you out, I've put together a comprehensive review. In this article, we'll dive deep to help you figure out if the 2017 Chevy Cruze is a good car. We'll explore everything, from its performance and features to its reliability and overall value. Get ready for an in-depth look at this popular compact car, helping you make a well-informed decision. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Performance and Driving Experience

When it comes to the 2017 Chevy Cruze and its performance, the driving experience is key, right? The 2017 Cruze offers a range of engine options designed to cater to different driving needs. The base engine is a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four, which is the most common and often praised for its balance of fuel efficiency and decent power. It delivers around 153 horsepower, which might not sound like a lot, but it's more than adequate for daily driving, commuting, and even highway cruising. This engine is generally paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, making city driving a breeze, while the manual option provides a more engaging experience for those who prefer to be in control. Beyond the base engine, some trims may come with a slightly different engine configuration or offer an upgrade, which may have enhanced performance. The Cruze's handling is generally considered to be stable and predictable. The suspension is tuned for comfort, which means it absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road relatively well, making for a smooth ride. The steering is light and easy, which is great for maneuvering in tight spaces, and the car's overall feel is composed, even at higher speeds. However, it's worth noting that the Cruze isn't designed to be a sporty car. If you're looking for a vehicle with sharp handling and quick acceleration, you might want to look at other options. But if you prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, and a relaxed driving experience, the 2017 Chevy Cruze is a solid choice. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.4-liter turbo engine is a standout. It delivers impressive miles per gallon, making it an economical option for those who do a lot of driving. This is a significant advantage, especially with the fluctuating gas prices we see nowadays. It's a car that's designed to be practical, reliable, and easy to live with day in and day out, and the driving experience reflects that.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

The 2017 Chevy Cruze is equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, and this is the star of the show. It's known for its blend of power and efficiency. Producing around 153 horsepower, it provides enough pep for daily driving and highway merges. The fuel efficiency is another strong point, as this engine allows for impressive miles per gallon, making the Cruze a cost-effective option for commuters. There might be some trim-specific engine options, but the 1.4-liter turbo is what you'll find in most models. The Cruze's fuel economy is quite impressive, especially for its class. The 1.4-liter turbo engine is known for its ability to deliver excellent miles per gallon, making it a great choice for those who are looking to save money on gas. This is a significant advantage, particularly with the rising fuel costs we often see. You can expect to get some good numbers on the highway and in the city, making it a practical car for various driving needs.

Transmission and Handling

When you're behind the wheel of the 2017 Chevy Cruze, you'll have a choice of transmissions. The most common pairing is the 1.4-liter turbo engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. This is a smooth and responsive setup that's perfect for city driving. It offers comfortable shifts and makes it easy to handle traffic and parking. For those who love the feel of a manual transmission, there's also a six-speed manual option, which provides a more engaging driving experience. This gives you more control over the car and lets you enjoy the driving process more actively. The Cruze's handling is designed for comfort and stability. The suspension is tuned to absorb road imperfections, ensuring a smooth ride, even on rough roads. The steering is light and easy, making it simple to maneuver in tight spots and park with ease. The car feels composed at higher speeds, making it a reliable choice for long highway journeys. While the Cruze isn't a sports car, its handling is more than adequate for everyday driving, offering a balanced and enjoyable experience.

Interior Comfort and Features

Let's get cozy inside the 2017 Chevy Cruze! The interior is designed to be comfortable and functional, with an emphasis on providing a pleasant driving experience. The seats are generally supportive, and the materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, considering the car's price point. The layout is well-thought-out, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. Space is also a key factor. The Cruze offers good legroom and headroom for front-seat passengers, making it comfortable for long drives. Rear-seat passengers also have enough space for comfortable seating, although it might feel a bit tight for taller adults on longer trips. The trunk provides a good amount of cargo space, enough for everyday needs like groceries and luggage, and there's often a split-folding rear seat, which increases the cargo capacity and flexibility. The 2017 Cruze also comes with a range of features, depending on the trim level. Even the base models include features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offer more advanced features such as heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety features.

Infotainment System and Tech Features

The infotainment system in the 2017 Chevy Cruze is a standout feature, and it's something you'll appreciate daily. The system is easy to use, with a touchscreen display that responds quickly to your inputs. It's user-friendly, allowing you to easily access your favorite features. Standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream music and make hands-free calls, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which are included in most trims. These features allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps, navigation, and music directly from the car's screen. The Cruze often includes a rearview camera, which is a great safety feature that makes parking and reversing much easier and safer. Some models also feature advanced tech options, such as a premium audio system, which enhances the sound quality, and built-in navigation, which provides real-time traffic updates. These features make the driving experience more enjoyable and convenient.

Space and Comfort

Inside the 2017 Chevy Cruze, comfort is a key focus. The front seats are well-designed and supportive, offering good comfort for long drives. There's ample legroom and headroom in the front, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The rear seats also provide adequate space for passengers, although taller individuals might find it a bit snug on longer journeys. The cabin is designed with the driver and passengers in mind, offering a practical and comfortable environment. The materials used inside are of good quality, given the car's price point. The layout is well-organized, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly design. The trunk provides a decent amount of cargo space, perfect for groceries, luggage, or other everyday items. The inclusion of a split-folding rear seat enhances the cargo capacity and offers more flexibility to accommodate larger items when needed.

Reliability and Maintenance

How about the reliability and maintenance of the 2017 Chevy Cruze? It's a critical factor when deciding if a car is a good investment. Generally speaking, the 2017 Chevy Cruze has a decent reliability record. However, like any car, it has its pros and cons. Some common issues have been reported by owners, which is important to know. These include problems with the engine, such as oil leaks, and issues with the transmission. It's always a good idea to research these potential issues and consult with mechanics or read reviews from other owners to be aware of what to look out for. Routine maintenance is key to keeping any car running smoothly, and the Cruze is no exception. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and checking fluid levels. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule will help keep the car in good condition and prevent major problems down the road. The cost of maintaining the Cruze is generally considered reasonable, with parts and services being readily available and not overly expensive. However, depending on the nature of the repairs, costs can vary. It's essential to factor in the potential maintenance costs when considering buying a used Cruze.

Common Issues and Problems

When evaluating the 2017 Chevy Cruze, it's important to be aware of the common issues that owners have reported. These issues aren't dealbreakers, but being aware of them will help you make a well-informed decision. Several owners have reported issues related to the engine, such as oil leaks, which can lead to reduced engine performance and, if left unattended, potential engine damage. Other engine-related issues include problems with the coolant system, which can cause overheating. There have also been reports of transmission problems, including rough shifting or slipping. These issues can be expensive to repair, so it's a good idea to have the transmission checked by a mechanic before buying a used Cruze. Electrical problems, such as issues with the infotainment system or the car's electronics, have also been reported. While not as common, these issues can be frustrating and costly to fix. Always ask for a vehicle history report before purchasing a used Cruze. This report will provide information about any accidents, recalls, or major repairs that the car has had.

Maintenance Costs and Schedule

Keeping your 2017 Chevy Cruze in top shape means sticking to a regular maintenance schedule. Routine maintenance will help you prevent major issues and keep the car running smoothly. The good news is that the maintenance costs are generally reasonable. Parts and services are readily available, and they are usually not overly expensive. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule is crucial. This schedule typically includes routine oil changes, usually every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the type of oil used. Tire rotations are also important, typically done every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, to ensure even tire wear and extend the life of your tires. You should also regularly check and replace fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Don't forget to inspect the brakes, belts, and hoses. The costs of these maintenance tasks are usually predictable. However, the costs will vary depending on the type of services required and where you take the car. It's wise to get quotes from multiple service centers to ensure you get the best price.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a top priority, and the 2017 Chevy Cruze comes with a variety of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. The 2017 Cruze received good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings are important indicators of the car's ability to protect occupants in a crash. Standard safety features include airbags throughout the cabin, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These airbags are designed to deploy in the event of a collision to protect occupants from injury. Electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock brakes (ABS) are also standard features. ESC helps maintain control of the car in challenging driving conditions, while ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking. Depending on the trim level, the Cruze may also include advanced safety features such as a rearview camera, which aids in backing up and parking, and blind-spot monitoring, which alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spot. Some models may have features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert, adding an extra layer of safety.

Safety Ratings and Standard Features

The 2017 Chevy Cruze has received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA awarded the Cruze with overall safety ratings. These ratings are an important indicator of the car's ability to protect occupants in a crash. The IIHS also performed crash tests and gave the Cruze high ratings in several categories. The Cruze comes standard with a variety of safety features designed to protect the occupants. These include multiple airbags throughout the cabin, including front airbags for the driver and front passenger, side airbags to protect the torso in a side impact, and curtain airbags to protect the heads of the front and rear passengers. Also included are electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock brakes (ABS). ESC helps maintain control of the vehicle in challenging driving conditions, while ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking.

Available Advanced Safety Tech

Beyond the standard safety features, the 2017 Chevy Cruze also offers several advanced safety technologies that enhance safety. These features are usually available on higher trim levels or as optional packages. The rearview camera is a common and useful feature, making it easier to back up and park safely. Blind-spot monitoring is another great feature, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spot, which helps prevent lane-change collisions. Lane departure warning is designed to alert you if you begin to drift out of your lane unintentionally. Some models may also include forward collision alert, which alerts you if the car detects a potential collision. The availability of these advanced safety technologies can vary depending on the trim level. If safety is a major concern, be sure to check the features included in the specific trim level you're considering.

Trim Levels and Features Comparison

The 2017 Chevy Cruze is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base trim, often called the L or LS, typically includes essential features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. It's a good option if you're looking for an affordable car with the basics. Stepping up to the higher trims, such as the LT or Premier, you'll find more advanced features. These include things like heated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. The Premier trim is usually the top-of-the-line and offers the most luxurious features, such as leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and more. When considering the different trim levels, it's essential to compare the features that are most important to you. Think about what you need in terms of comfort, convenience, and safety, and choose the trim that best fits your lifestyle.

Comparing Trim Levels

Let's break down the trim levels of the 2017 Chevy Cruze to see what each one offers. The base trim, usually the L or LS, is the most affordable option. It provides the essentials, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. It's a great choice if you prioritize affordability and need a car for basic transportation. The LT trim is a step up and adds more features. You'll often find upgrades like alloy wheels, upgraded infotainment systems, and some interior enhancements. The Premier trim is the top-of-the-line option, offering the most luxurious features. This includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and often advanced safety technologies. Each trim offers a unique blend of features and equipment. Carefully compare the features of each trim level. Consider what matters most to you in terms of comfort, convenience, and safety. This will help you choose the Cruze trim that fits your needs and budget perfectly.

Feature Highlights by Trim

To give you a better idea of what each 2017 Chevy Cruze trim offers, let's look at some key feature highlights. The base L or LS trim provides a foundation of essential features. You'll get a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, which allows you to access various car functions easily. Bluetooth connectivity is included, allowing you to connect your phone for hands-free calling and music streaming. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind the car, making parking and reversing much easier. The LT trim builds on these features. You can often expect to find alloy wheels, which enhance the car's appearance and improve handling. The infotainment system might be upgraded with more advanced features, and you may find some interior enhancements for a more comfortable experience. The Premier trim is the most luxurious. It usually includes leather upholstery, which adds a touch of elegance. Heated front seats provide extra comfort in colder weather. The power-adjustable driver's seat lets you easily find the perfect driving position. This top-tier trim offers the most comfort and convenience features.

Value for Money

Is the 2017 Chevy Cruze a good value for the money? Overall, it offers a good value proposition, especially in the used car market. Its starting price when new was competitive with other compact cars in its class, and depreciation has made it even more affordable. When considering its price, the Cruze offers a good mix of features, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride. The cost of ownership, including fuel and maintenance, is reasonable. Comparing the Cruze to its competitors, you'll find that it stands up well in terms of features, reliability, and cost. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and feature-rich car without breaking the bank. The value is even better if you find one in good condition with a well-documented service history. Remember to factor in the potential for repairs when assessing the car's value.

Pricing and Depreciation

When evaluating the 2017 Chevy Cruze as a good buy, it's critical to consider its pricing and how it depreciates over time. The Cruze was competitively priced when it was new, offering a good value compared to other compact cars in its class. In the used car market, its value is even more compelling because of depreciation. This is great news for you, as it means you can potentially get a well-equipped car at a lower price than a new model. The rate of depreciation depends on several factors, including the car's condition, mileage, and trim level. Models with more features and a lower mileage tend to hold their value a bit better. Keep an eye on the market and compare prices to get a good idea of what a fair price is in your area. This will help you make a smart investment. Always have the car inspected by a mechanic before you buy to make sure there are no hidden issues that could affect the car's value down the line.

Compared to Competitors

How does the 2017 Chevy Cruze stack up against its competitors? It does quite well, actually! When you compare the Cruze to other compact cars in its class, like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3, you'll see that it holds its own in several areas. The Cruze often offers a competitive price. Its price is often lower than some of its rivals. It provides a good balance of features and value. The Cruze offers a range of features, from infotainment systems to safety technologies. When we compare fuel efficiency, the Cruze's 1.4-liter turbo engine is known for its excellent gas mileage, which can be better than some competitors. It can result in significant savings over time. The Cruze usually provides a comfortable ride. It focuses on comfort and ease of use, making it a pleasant car for daily driving. While the Cruze isn't necessarily the sportiest car in the class, it provides a solid all-around package that's great for most drivers.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Chevy Cruze a Good Car?

So, is the 2017 Chevy Cruze a good car? Absolutely! It's a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact car that balances value, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable driving experience. The 2017 Chevy Cruze has some fantastic features. The 1.4-liter turbo engine provides a good blend of power and efficiency, making it an economical option for daily commutes and longer trips. The interior is comfortable, with a user-friendly infotainment system and a good amount of space for passengers and cargo. While there are some potential reliability concerns to be aware of, like any used car, the overall cost of ownership is reasonable. If you're looking for an affordable, reliable, and feature-rich compact car, the 2017 Chevy Cruze is definitely worth considering. Make sure to do your research, get a pre-purchase inspection, and test drive it to see if it's the right fit for you. Good luck with your car search!