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Corolla or cruze? 5 key differences to help you choose the perfect compact car

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • If you prefer a more powerful engine, a more spacious back seat, and a wider range of technology features, the Chevrolet Cruze is a great choice.
  • In addition to the key aspects covered in this comparison, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze.
  • Both the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze offer a wide range of advanced safety features, but the Corolla has a slight edge with Toyota Safety Sense 2.

In the competitive compact sedan segment, the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze stand out as two of the most popular choices. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. However, discerning buyers may wonder which one reigns supreme. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Toyota Corolla vs. Chevrolet Cruze to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Under the hood, the Toyota Corolla features a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. The Chevrolet Cruze, on the other hand, offers a slightly more powerful 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel economy, the Corolla takes the lead with an EPA-estimated 30/40 mpg city/highway for the base model. The Cruze comes in slightly behind with an EPA-estimated 28/38 mpg city/highway.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Toyota Corolla delivers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The Chevrolet Cruze also offers a comfortable ride, but its handling is slightly less engaging than the Corolla’s.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze offer spacious interiors for their size. The Corolla has slightly more legroom and headroom in the front seats, while the Cruze has a more spacious back seat.

In terms of comfort, the Corolla’s seats are supportive and well-cushioned, while the Cruze’s seats are a bit firmer. Both vehicles offer a variety of interior materials, including cloth, leather, and simulated leather.

Features and Technology

The Toyota Corolla comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Chevrolet Cruze offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot as standard.

When it comes to safety features, the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze come well-equipped. Both vehicles offer a suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Price and Value

The Toyota Corolla has a starting price of $20,425, while the Chevrolet Cruze starts at $19,995. Both vehicles offer a variety of trim levels and options, which can significantly affect the final price.

In terms of value, the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze are both excellent choices. They offer a lot of features and capabilities for their price, making them great options for budget-minded shoppers.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a comfortable ride, the Toyota Corolla is an excellent option. If you prefer a more powerful engine, a more spacious back seat, and a wider range of technology features, the Chevrolet Cruze is a great choice.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Factors to Consider

In addition to the key aspects covered in this comparison, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze:

  • Reliability: Both the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze have a good reputation for reliability.
  • Resale Value: The Toyota Corolla typically has a higher resale value than the Chevrolet Cruze.
  • Brand Image: Toyota has a strong brand image for quality and reliability, while Chevrolet is known for its performance and value.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which car has better fuel economy, the Toyota Corolla or Chevrolet Cruze?
A: The Toyota Corolla has better fuel economy than the Chevrolet Cruze, with an EPA-estimated 30/40 mpg city/highway compared to the Cruze’s 28/38 mpg city/highway.

Q: Which car has more interior space, the Toyota Corolla or Chevrolet Cruze?
A: The Chevrolet Cruze has more interior space than the Toyota Corolla, especially in the back seat.

Q: Which car has more advanced safety features, the Toyota Corolla or Chevrolet Cruze?
A: Both the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze offer a wide range of advanced safety features, but the Corolla has a slight edge with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ as standard on all trim levels.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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