The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze is a compact sedan with a price range of $7,244 to $11,452. A combination of high ownership costs, a small cabin, and an outdated infotainment system are reasons to avoid the car.
2014 Chevrolet Cruze: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2014 model year include a diesel engine, and additional exterior paint colors including red hot, rainforest green metallic, blue ray metallic, and tungsten metallic.
- Reliability ratings are great, according to J.D. Power, but there are more issues than with the newer models.
- Three engines are available, all have four cylinders, and the diesel is the most efficient.
- Fuel-efficiency is excellent, ranking 3rd in the small car class with a combined rating of up to 32 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than other compact cars, getting a five-star rating in government crash tests. The Cruze also earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2014 Chevy Cruze ranks low in the compact car class based on owner reviews. Chevrolet doesn’t do anything to stand out as a leader in the competitive compact car market.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Have?
The 2014 Chevy Cruze is a car buyers should avoid since there are more complaints than the 2013 and 2015 models. Overall, the Cruze has a similar number of issues compared to other compact cars in the same price range. The 2014 Cruze problems range from overheating engines and power loss to infotainment system glitches and malfunctioning turn signals.
Engine problems, including check engine lights, are the most common issue. Replacing the PCV valve and cover will often solve the problem, but diagnosing the issue requires using an OBD-II scan tool to read the codes.
Electrical problems, such as a loss of power while driving are also brought up by owners. Replacing battery cables usually fixes the problem, since corrosion on the cables leads to a loss of power.
Cooling problems, and overheating, are also mentioned by owners. Replacing the head, valves, or water pump will solve the problem, but the average cost is over $1,600.
There are seven recalls, average for a car from 2014. Recalls include the half shafts, transmission adjuster cables, air bags, engine block heater, steering gear, and the key can be removed while the car is in park. Most serious are the half-shafts and keys, since they can lead to accidents and roll-away situations.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2014 Chevy Cruze is more expensive than other compact cars, with a price range of $7,244 to $11,452, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $17,520 to $24,985. Depreciation is faster than average, dropping 55% in value over the first five years.
- LS is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power windows, remote keyless entry, and a six-speaker stereo system with satellite radio, CD, Bluetooth, AUX, and USB connectivity.
- 1LT is next in the lineup and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, OnStar, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and body-colored mirrors.
- Eco focuses on efficiency with a smaller 1.4-liter engine, is 200 pounds lighter, has narrower tires on 17-inch wheels, and additional aerodynamic components for decreased drag.
- 2LT adds luxury with leather seating, 17-inch wheels, a 6-way power driver’s seat, seven-inch MyLink infotainment system, improved suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes.
- LTZ is the flagship model with 18-inch wheels, upgraded interior trim, rearview camera, keyless ignition, automatic climate control, fog lamps, and parking sensors.
- Diesel is a version with a 2.0L diesel engine, and has everything found on the 1LT model, with the addition of leather seating.
How Long Will the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Last?
A properly maintained 2014 Chevy Cruze should last about 200,000 miles, which is an average lifespan for a compact car. Maintenance costs are higher than competitors. Repair Pal estimates them to be about $523 per year.
It has very little problems. I have had this car for almost a year and the only time I have taken it to the shop was when it needed an oil change. Nothing has ever broke on it.
I have not had major problems with the car. There is a whirling sounds coming from the belt but this can easily be changed.
Yes, it is very reliable. I haven't had any problems in the past year and a half I have had the vehicle. It is a very good car.
I have had it just about a year and only had to replace a tube which had corroded but apart from that a very reliable car.
Very reliable. I have not experienced any issues with it. I get great gas mileage and have very little worry about any upkeep for the vehicle.
Very reliable with no problems other than normal things like air in tires, lights need changing once in awhile. Other than that I have no complaints.
Never, had any issues or problems only had to do simple and minor repairs as well as oil change and detail and washing the inside and out.
As mentioned earlier I had the fuel injection go out but thankfully it occurred during the warranty. I have maintained the oil change and general upkeep so hope to keep for 10 more years.
2014 Chevrolet Cruze Video Walkaround and Overview
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is basic in the entry-level models, but improves in the 2LT and LTZ models.
- Base technology includes a six-speaker stereo system with CD, Bluetooth, AUX, and USB connections, OnStar, as well as satellite radio.
- Upgrades include a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Chevrolet’s MyLink system, and navigation.
- For safety, there are 10 airbags, anti-lock brakes, and automatic crash response. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera, and rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is poor compared to other compact cars, and the most powerful engine still takes 9.2 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.
- The base engine found on the LS model is a 1.8L four-cylinder with 138 horsepower.
- An upgraded 1.4L four-cylinder turbocharged engine is in the other models, and also has 138 horsepower.
- The most efficient diesel engine is a 2.0L four-cylinder and produces 151 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Cruze?
The 2014 Chevy Cruze is a compact sedan, similar in size to the competition. Legroom is cramped in the back seats for adults, and is best suited to children. Cargo space is good with 15 cu. ft. of space in the trunk of the sedan. There’s enough room to fit three full-size suitcases.
How Does the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Compare to Other Cars?
The 2014 Chevy Cruze ranks 26th out of 39 compact cars, based on owner reviews, and is in the lower half of the class.
Higher up in the class is the more expensive Mazda3. Performance and reliability are better in the Mazda, with significantly fewer complaints from owners. Technology is similar, but the Mazda’s system is easier to use. Overall, the Mazda3 is a better choice since it will last longer than the Chevy
A close competitor is the Honda Civic, which is closer in price. The Honda has better reliability, more power, and a larger cabin. Technology is easier to use in the Cruze. Between the two cars, the longer-lasting and more affordable Civic is the better choice.
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze a Good Car?
After completing our research including 1,613 owner reviews, and information from 18 government and automotive websites, no, the 2014 Cruze is not a good car. Positives include decent reliability ratings, and an optional fuel-efficient diesel engine. Where points are lost is with cramped rear seats, and outdated technology compared to other compact cars. Overall, the 2014 Cruze is a car to skip, especially since the 2015 model has fewer complaints.
