Used 2018 Chevrolet Cruze for SaleNationwide

How much does the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze cost?

Prices have softened 9.48% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 1,390 listings available, which gives you a solid amount of inventory to compare.

Is the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze a good car?

Yes — the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze earns a 4.67/5 user rating and a 6.67/10 expert rating. The standout strength is Safety at 8/10.

Drivers consistently praise its smooth driving experience, excellent fuel economy, and comfort. The overview also points to a clear fit for commuters, families, or students who want an efficient daily driver, while the diesel setup gives you a more unusual option in a market where diesel compact cars had become scarce. At the same time, the feedback also reflects that this Cruze is more about efficiency and ease of use than strong performance.

With 26.3% of listings marked as good or great deals, you have some room to shop selectively.

Is the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze reliable?

Owners rate it 4.67/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

User feedback points to a car that many drivers find smooth, comfortable, and efficient, with several calling out its dependable everyday character and strong fuel economy. The expert notes also emphasize that the diesel powertrain delivers usable torque and impressive mileage, which supports the idea that this Cruze can be a practical long-term commuter if you choose carefully.

The main ownership risk for used buyers is that diesel-specific wear, stop-start behavior, and prior-use history can matter more here than on a simpler gas-only compact.

What should I look for when buying a used 2018 Chevrolet Cruze?

At 56.2% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should start with a vehicle history report and then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection, especially if you’re considering a diesel example. Focus on overall condition, signs of prior bodywork, and whether the car’s maintenance history matches the mileage and use pattern you expect. Because this model’s appeal is tied so closely to efficiency and daily drivability, you’ll want to make sure the example you choose still feels smooth and well cared for.

Key things to evaluate:

• Trim level: Available only in LT trim, the Diesel Hatchback comes with the Convenience Package, including a power driver’s seat, keyless entry and ignition, and remote start.
• Powertrain: The diesel setup pairs a 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine with a 9-speed automatic and is described as strong enough for highway passing while delivering impressive mileage.
• Safety package: Teen Driver is standard, and the car includes full-length side curtain, knee, and front and rear side airbags.
• Infotainment: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the Chevy MyLink system is paired with a touchscreen interface.
• Fuel efficiency: The diesel is estimated at 35 mpg combined, with real-world driving described as often reaching 40 mpg or better.

Which 2018 Chevrolet Cruze trim should I buy?

The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is offered in 1 trim level: LT Diesel Hatchback.

Here's the short version:

The LT Diesel Hatchback is the only trim, so your decision is really about whether you want the diesel powertrain and its efficiency advantage. It adds the Convenience Package with a power driver’s seat, keyless entry and ignition, and remote start, which makes it the most complete version of this model year. If you want the most distinctive Cruze and the strongest fuel-economy story, this is the one to target.

Teen Driver is standard, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2018 Chevrolet Cruze?

This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop patiently but should move quickly on the right car.

• Deal availability: 26.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 1,390 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 9.48% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 56.2% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $9,871, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze's resale value?

The current average of $9,871 sits slightly below last year's $10,904.

That decline suggests the market has become more favorable for buyers than sellers in the near term. If you own one and plan to sell later, you should expect pricing pressure unless your car is especially clean, well maintained, and attractively equipped. The diesel setup may help it stand out to the right shopper, but broad resale strength will still depend on condition and demand at the time you list it.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.67/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Is the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze safe?

The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze earns five-star overall and frontal crash ratings from NHTSA, with four-star ratings in side crash and rollover tests.

It earns an 8/10 safety score from our experts.

Teen Driver is standard, and the car also includes full-length side curtain, knee, and front and rear side airbags. The expert safety notes also highlight strong stopping performance. The main caveat is that the side and rollover NHTSA results are lower than the frontal and overall ratings, so safety-conscious shoppers should pay close attention to the full crash-test picture.

Should I buy a 2018 Chevrolet Cruze or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2018 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2018 if:

• 26.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 56.2% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 9.48% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.67/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
• The diesel powertrain gives this year a distinctive efficiency-focused niche.

Consider the 2017 if:

• At $9,283, the 2017 costs less than the current year's $9,871 average.
• It adds a sloping rear hatch for more utility and broader appeal.

The bottom line: Choose the 2018 if you want the more distinctive diesel setup and are willing to shop carefully for condition and history. If your priority is simply spending less, the 2017 is the better value path, especially if you want a practical Cruze with a lower entry price.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 15, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.