2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited, essentially a carryover model from the previous generation, offered a compact sedan experience. While not a brand-new design, it remained popular for its value proposition and decent fuel economy. Key trims included the LS, LT, and Eco. It appealed to budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and practical daily driver.
The Good
The 2016 Cruze Limited shines with its impressive fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice. It offers a comfortable ride for its class, and its straightforward design appeals to those seeking simplicity. For emotional buyers, it provides a sense of security and dependable transportation.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of reports concerning premature transmission issues and some electrical glitches. Oil consumption can also be a concern with certain engine configurations. Checking for a consistent maintenance history is crucial.
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited was primarily offered with two engine choices. The base engine was a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, and an optional, more fuel-efficient 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder was also available.
- Horsepower: The 1.8-liter engine produced around 138 horsepower, while the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine also offered approximately 138 horsepower, though with potentially better torque delivery.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy varied depending on the engine and transmission. The 1.8-liter engine typically achieved EPA estimates in the range of 25 mpg city/36 mpg highway. The 1.4-liter turbo, especially when paired with the automatic transmission, could reach figures closer to 28 mpg city/38 mpg highway, and even higher for manual transmission variants.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration was not a strong suit for the Cruze Limited. Expect 0-60 mph times to be in the 9-10 second range for most configurations, with the turbocharged engine offering slightly more spirited performance.
- Towing Capacity: The Chevrolet Cruze Limited is a compact car and is not designed for towing. It does not have a designated towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LS: Standard features often included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- LT: Building on the LS, the LT trim often added alloy wheels, cruise control, satellite radio, and upgraded interior materials. Optional packages could include features like heated seats and a sunroof.
- Eco: This trim was geared towards maximum fuel efficiency, featuring aerodynamic enhancements, low-rolling-resistance tires, and often specific engine tuning for optimal MPG. It generally included similar comfort features to the LT but with a focus on efficiency.
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan Front-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | RAMOS ARIZPE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1398.88 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1959.97 kg |
| Overall Height | 147.57 cm |
| Overall Length | 459.74 cm |
| Overall Width | 179.58 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 268.48 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.4-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 1.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $18,970 USD |
| Invoice Price | $18,306 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $825 USD |
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Have?
Owners of the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited have frequently reported issues related to the transmission. This includes premature failure of the automatic transmission, with symptoms ranging from harsh shifting to complete failure. Some owners have experienced this issue relatively early in the vehicle's life, often under 100,000 miles. Another recurring concern is oil consumption, particularly with the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. This can lead to low oil levels, potentially causing engine damage if not monitored closely. Electrical problems have also been noted, including issues with the infotainment system, power windows, and dashboard warning lights. These can be intermittent and frustrating to diagnose. While not specific to the 2016 model year, earlier generations of the Cruze have had recalls related to potential fire risks due to engine oil leaks and issues with the power steering system. It's always advisable to check for any outstanding recalls applicable to a specific VIN. In terms of long-term reliability, the Cruze Limited generally falls in the average to below-average category, especially when compared to some of its Japanese competitors. The transmission and engine components are the primary areas that may require attention over time. Proper and consistent maintenance, including regular oil changes and fluid checks, is paramount to mitigating some of these potential issues and extending the vehicle's lifespan.
How long will the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance practices, a well-maintained 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited can reasonably be expected to reach between 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, this estimate is heavily influenced by how diligently oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and other recommended services are performed. The long-term durability is often challenged by reported transmission issues and potential oil consumption. While the core structure and body are generally robust, these powertrain weaknesses can limit the vehicle's lifespan if not addressed proactively. Owners who prioritize regular checks and address any emerging problems promptly are more likely to experience extended service life. Neglecting maintenance, especially concerning the transmission and oil levels, can significantly reduce its longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited offered a respectable suite of technology, entertainment, and safety features for its segment. Standard across most trims was a 7-inch color touchscreen infotainment system, which provided access to radio, media playback, and importantly, a rearview camera for easier parking. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming was also a standard convenience. For those seeking more advanced connectivity, optional features often included Chevrolet's MyLink system, which offered smartphone integration capabilities like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (though availability could vary by trim and option package). A built-in Wi-Fi hotspot was also an available upgrade, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet. In terms of driver-assistance and safety, the Cruze Limited came equipped with the expected airbags (front, side, and curtain), anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Some higher trims or optional packages could include features like rear parking sensors. While advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or blind-spot monitoring were not commonly found on this model year, its core safety features were designed to protect occupants. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, signifying excellent performance in various crash tests, including frontal and side impacts. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave it good ratings in many of its tests, further reinforcing its safety credentials.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited had an original MSRP that typically ranged from around $15,000 for the base LS trim to upwards of $20,000 for higher trims with optional packages. As a compact sedan from a few years ago, it has undergone significant depreciation. Current used market prices for a 2016 Cruze Limited generally fall between $6,000 and $10,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, trim level, and overall market demand. Factors affecting resale value include its mileage (lower is better), a documented history of regular maintenance, and the absence of significant mechanical or cosmetic issues. While its fuel efficiency and practicality help maintain some value, its reputation for potential transmission problems can negatively impact its resale appeal compared to more reliable competitors.
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Cost of Ownership
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited is generally considered an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate, falling within the average range for compact cars. Fuel expenses are also low, thanks to its respectable fuel economy. Routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations are standard and affordable. However, potential buyers should factor in the possibility of higher repair costs, particularly concerning reported transmission issues. While not consistently problematic, a significant transmission repair could be costly. Overall, with careful driving and consistent maintenance, the Cruze Limited remains a budget-friendly option. Its economical nature shines in daily running costs, but owners should be prepared for potential repair expenses.
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
25.78 liters
City Mileage
3.32 km/l
Highway Mileage
2.38 km/l
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2016-07-01
Recall no.
16v498000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016 Cruze Vehicles Manufactured November 5, 2015, TO MAY 26, 2016. THE Headlight Assemblies ARE NOT Marked With A Three-Digit Identifier Code Used TO Properly AIM THE Headlights. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Assoc. Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Identification Code, THE Headlights MAY BE Improperly Aimed During Service, Reducing Nighttime Visibility and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Mail Owners Instructions and Adhesive Labels, With THE Correct Code, TO Install ON Their Headlight Assemblies. Owners MAY Also Bring THE Vehicle TO A GM Dealership FOR ANY Assistance With Applying THE Label, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 11, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service Department AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 50190.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Recall date
2016-07-05
Recall no.
16v502000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu AS THE Electronic Park Lock Lever MAY Allow THE Ignition KEY TO BE Removed Without THE Transmission Being IN Park. Also, Certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain Vehicles MAY Have Been Serviced With Similar Defective Replacement Electronic Park Lock Levers. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS Removed Without THE Transmission IN Park, THE Vehicle MAY Rollaway AS Occupants ARE Exiting, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and IF Necessary Replace THE KEY Cylinder Lock Housing, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 50490 and 50491.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date
2016-07-05
Recall no.
16v502000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu AS THE Electronic Park Lock Lever MAY Allow THE Ignition KEY TO BE Removed Without THE Transmission Being IN Park. Also, Certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain Vehicles MAY Have Been Serviced With Similar Defective Replacement Electronic Park Lock Levers. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS Removed Without THE Transmission IN Park, THE Vehicle MAY Rollaway AS Occupants ARE Exiting, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and IF Necessary Replace THE KEY Cylinder Lock Housing, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 50490 and 50491.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:head Restraint
Recall date
2017-01-26
Recall no.
17v057000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2017 Chevrolet Cruze Vehicles. A Bracket Used IN THE Driver or Front Passenger Seat-Back Recliner Mechanism MAY Have Been Incorrectly Welded TO THE Seat-back Frame, AS A Result, IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Head-restraints MAY NOT Function Properly. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 202a, "head Restraints."
Consequence
IN A Crash, THE Seat-Backs FOR THE Front Seats MAY Break, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Occupants.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Front Passenger Seats, Replacing ANY With Seat-Back Frames That ARE Incorrectly Welded, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON February 28, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 17035.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date
2018-05-10
Recall no.
18v304000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2018 Chevrolet Cruze LS Vehicles, Equipped With A Gasoline Engine and A Tire Inflator KIT Instead OF A Spare Tire. THE Vehicles MAY Leak Gasoline Following A Rear-Impact Crash and A Rollover. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 301, "fuel System Integrity."
Consequence
A Fuel Leak, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Lock-Ring ON THE Fuel Tank That Will Shield THE Fuel Tank Vapor Pressure Sensor From Damage IN A Rear-Impact Crash, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 7, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 18159.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited competed in the highly contested compact sedan segment against formidable rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Ford Focus. In terms of price, the Cruze Limited often offered a slightly lower entry point and potentially more features for the money at the outset compared to its Japanese competitors, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. When it comes to performance, the Cruze's engines, particularly the turbocharged option, offered decent power for city driving, but it generally lagged behind rivals like the Mazda3 in terms of driving dynamics and responsiveness. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla were often praised for their smoother acceleration and more refined powertrains. For features, the Cruze Limited provided a competitive infotainment system with available smartphone integration and a rearview camera, aligning well with its peers. However, some rivals offered a wider array of advanced driver-assistance technologies even at lower trim levels. Reliability is where the Cruze Limited faces its biggest challenge. While the Civic and Corolla are renowned for their bulletproof reliability and longevity, the Cruze Limited has a reputation for more frequent and potentially costly issues, particularly with its transmissions and oil consumption. The Ford Focus also faced some similar transmission concerns in certain model years. Considering these factors, while the 2016 Cruze Limited was a price-competitive option with decent features and fuel economy, rivals like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are generally recommended for those prioritizing long-term reliability and a more refined ownership experience. The Mazda3 stands out for its engaging driving dynamics and upscale interior. If a similar value proposition is sought with potentially better reliability than the Cruze, a well-maintained Hyundai Elantra or Kia Forte from the same model year could also be considered.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited a Good Sedan?
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize affordability and decent fuel economy over ultimate long-term reliability. It's a sensible choice for a first car, a commuter vehicle, or a secondary car where primary transportation needs are met by another vehicle. While new purchase is unlikely given its age, buying it used is viable if the price is significantly lower than its more reliable competitors. Look for models with a comprehensive maintenance history, particularly one that shows consistent transmission fluid changes. The LT trim often offers a good balance of features and value. If reliability is paramount, exploring alternatives like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla is advisable. However, for those on a strict budget who understand the potential risks and are willing to perform diligent maintenance, the Cruze Limited can still be a worthwhile purchase.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.