Do they still make Chevy Cruzes?
In short, no new Chevrolet Cruzes are being produced for the U.S. and Canadian markets. GM discontinued the model after the 2019 model year, and the Cruze nameplate is not part of Chevrolet’s current lineup in North America. The status of the Cruze varied by region in earlier years, but today there are no factory-fresh Cruzes destined for major markets.
Current status of the Chevrolet Cruze
Chevrolet no longer sells the Cruze in the United States or Canada. Production for those markets ended with the 2019 model year as GM refocused its lineup toward SUVs and crossovers rather than compact sedans.
North American status
The last U.S. and Canadian Cruze rolled off the line in 2019. Since then, the model has lived on only in the used market in these regions, with no announcements from GM about a return to North American production.
Timeline of Cruze production in North America
Below is a concise timeline of when the Cruze was offered in North America and when production ended.
- 2010: Chevrolet announces the Cruze for North America, with a 2011 model-year introduction; built at Lordstown Assembly in Ohio for the U.S./Canada market.
- 2011–2015: Cruze is sold in the U.S., Canada, and other markets with incremental updates to trim levels and features.
- 2016–2019: Mid-cycle refreshes update styling and technology as GM shifts emphasis toward SUVs.
- 2019: Last model year for the Cruze in North America; production ends as GM ceases Cruze sales in the region.
That timeline shows how the Cruze gradually disappeared from the North American market as demand shifted, culminating in its discontinuation for 2019.
Alternatives to the Cruze in the current market
If you're shopping a compact sedan or hatchback today, several current models compete with the Cruze in size, efficiency, and value:
- Toyota Corolla
- Honda Civic
- Hyundai Elantra
- Kia Forte
- Mazda3
- Nissan Sentra
These options reflect Chevrolet’s shift toward crossovers and SUVs for popular segments, while still offering modern technology, safety features, and efficiency.
What to consider when buying a used Cruze
For those who still want a Cruze, used examples can be found in the market. If you pursue one, check maintenance history, ensure the transmission operates smoothly, and review any applicable recalls or service campaigns. Availability varies by region and over time, so verify current listings with local dealers or private sellers.
When evaluating alternatives, also consider your priorities (fuel economy, cargo space, warranty coverage) and how much you value modern tech and safety features found in newer compact sedans.
Summary
The Chevrolet Cruze is no longer produced for the U.S. and Canadian markets as of 2019, reflecting a broader industry shift toward SUVs. While it remains part of Chevrolet’s history, buyers today are directed toward newer compact models or the brand’s current crossover lineup. For those set on a Cruze, the market is limited to used examples, so condition history and recalls become especially important.
What replaced the Chevy Cruze?
The Chevy Cruze was not directly replaced by a single model, but its discontinuation in North America was part of a larger shift by GM to focus on SUVs and trucks. Some suggest the new, smaller Chevy Trax is the closest replacement in terms of a budget-friendly, versatile vehicle, while for those seeking a sedan, Chevrolet now points to the larger Malibu.
This video explains what car should you buy instead of a Chevy Cruze: 48sJalopnikYouTube · May 26, 2022
- For those wanting a small, versatile vehicle: The Chevy Trax is now considered a successor, as it was designed to fill the void left by the Cruze sedan and hatchback.
- For those wanting a traditional sedan: Chevrolet now recommends the mid-size Malibu as the closest sedan alternative.
- The reason for the change: The discontinuation was due to shifting consumer demand away from cars and toward more popular SUVs and trucks.
- A new Cruze exists (but not for North America): The Cruze nameplate has been revived for the 2026 model year, but this new version is for markets outside of North America, such as the Middle East.
Why did Chevy discontinue the Cruze?
Chevy discontinued the Cruze primarily because of a nationwide shift in consumer preference away from sedans and toward SUVs and trucks. This market trend, coupled with General Motors' strategic decision to focus its efforts and capital on developing more profitable crossover SUVs and its future lineup of electric vehicles, led to the Cruze's production ending in North America in 2019.
- Consumer preference: Consumers began choosing SUVs over sedans, leading to lower sales for compact cars like the Cruze.
- Strategic shift: GM decided to focus on more popular and profitable vehicle types, such as SUVs and trucks.
- Focus on electric vehicles: GM began investing heavily in its future lineup of all-electric vehicles, which led to phasing out many of its traditional gasoline-powered sedans and compact cars.
- Cost-cutting measures: The discontinuation was also part of a broader cost-cutting plan by GM that included closing plants and reducing the workforce.
Are Chevy Cruzes still made?
In 2019, General Motors decided to discontinue the Chevy Cruze, the very same car Edmunds Inside Line had called the company's "most significant car ever." At the car's launch in 2010, even the General Motors' president of North American operations, Mark Reuss, said that the Cruze meant everything to the company.
Is Chevy making a 2025 Cruze?
The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze features a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that delivers up to 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. It comes with smooth shifts and a responsive driving experience.
