Which is bigger Toyota Corolla or Chevy Cruze?

The Chevrolet Cruze is typically slightly larger in exterior footprint than the Toyota Corolla for its last-generation specs, but Chevrolet stopped producing the Cruze after 2019, so the Corolla remains the current, widely available option.

Status at a glance

Here’s a quick look at how the two cars differ in availability and general positioning.

• The Chevrolet Cruze was discontinued in 2019 (for the 2020 model year) in North America. It remains available only on the used market in most regions. The Toyota Corolla is still in production and updated through recent model years.


• Both cars are compact sedans (with hatchback variants in some markets). The Corolla’s current generation uses newer packaging and technology, while the Cruze offered a similar interior footprint in its final years but is no longer sold new.


• In terms of overall size, the Cruze’s last generation tended to be very close in size to the Corolla, with some measurements showing the Cruze as marginally larger in width and height depending on the year.

For shoppers today, the key takeaway is that the Corolla is the ongoing option, while the Cruze exists only as a used-car choice. The size delta between them is small and varies by model year.

Exterior size comparison

To compare size, we look at typical measurements from the last Cruze generation (roughly 2016–2019) and the current Corolla generation (2020–present). Note that exact figures depend on trim and body style (sedan vs hatchback).

• Length: The Cruze was generally around 183 to 184 inches long, while the Corolla sits in the low 182s to around 183 inches. The difference is often within about an inch or so, depending on year and variant.


• Width: The Cruze is usually around 70.4 inches wide, while the Corolla is about 69.9–70.0 inches wide. The Cruze can appear slightly broader.


• Height: The Cruze tends to stand about 58 inches tall, whereas the Corolla is typically in the high 57s. The Cruze can be modestly taller by a small margin.


• Wheelbase: Both cars share a similar wheelbase, roughly around 106.3 inches, which helps explain the comparable interior space despite small exterior differences.

In summary, the Cruze generally offered a slightly larger exterior footprint in width and height and a similar or modestly longer length, depending on the exact year and body style. The Corolla’s advantage is that it remains current and widely available in new form, with modern packaging and efficiency.

Interior space and cargo

Interior room and cargo capability are important when sizing up compact cars. Here is how the two stack up in practical use and packaging.

• Passenger space: Both offer comfortable seating for five, with front-seat comfort and decent rear legroom. The Corolla’s interior benefits from newer packaging and refinement in the latest generations, while the Cruze’s cabin was competitive in its era.


• Cargo and trunk: Both models provide modest trunk space typical of compact sedans. The Cruze’s hatchback variant (when available) offered greater cargo flexibility than its sedan, while the Corolla also offers hatchback variants in many markets, providing similar versatility in cargo space.


• Practical considerations: Because the Cruze is no longer in production, finding a new unit isn’t possible; if you need a modern warranty and up-to-date features, the Corolla is the sensible choice. For those shopping used, compare specific model years to understand trunk space and rear-seat usability.

Overall interior space is similar between the two, with small variances by year and body style. Hatchbacks tend to offer the most flexible cargo options for each lineup.

Summary

Both the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze sit in the compact car segment with comparable overall size. The Cruze was typically slightly larger in width and height and roughly similar in length to the Corolla, but it is no longer produced after 2019. The Corolla remains the current option and benefits from ongoing updates, better efficiency, and a broader new-car support network. If you’re choosing based on current availability, the Corolla is the practical pick; if you’re shopping used, either can be a reasonable choice depending on year, condition, and features.

Is a Toyota Corolla a small or medium car?

The Toyota Corolla is a trusted compact sedan known for its exceptional reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall value.

How big is the Chevy Cruze compared to the Toyota Corolla?

The Corolla has 97.5 cubic feet of passenger volume, compared to only 94 cubic feet of space in the Cruze. The Corolla has extra space in the cabin, including 5.3 inches of additional rear legroom and 1.6 inches of additional rear shoulder room.

Which car is better, Chevy or Toyota?

Whether Toyota is "better" than Chevy depends on priorities, as each brand has different strengths. Toyota often leads in reliability, resale value, and lower long-term ownership costs. Chevrolet may be a better choice for those who prioritize features like towing capacity, certain tech integrations, or a lower initial price point.
 
Toyota strengths

• Reliability and resale value: Toyota has a strong reputation for reliability and consistently ranks high in dependability studies. This contributes to a higher resale value compared to many Chevy models. 
• Longevity: Toyota vehicles are known for their longevity and durability. 
• Lower ownership costs: On average, Toyota models can have lower maintenance and repair costs over time. 
• Standard safety features: The Toyota Tundra, for example, comes with a more comprehensive set of standard safety features (Toyota Safety Sense 2.5) compared to the Chevy Silverado's standard offerings. 

Chevrolet strengths

• Towing and payload capacity: Chevrolet trucks, like the Silverado, can offer higher maximum towing and payload capacities, making them a strong choice for heavy-duty tasks. 
• Price and features: Chevy models can be more competitive in initial pricing and offer a wide range of trim levels and features, sometimes at a lower cost than comparable Toyota models. 
• Technology integration: Chevrolet is increasingly integrating advanced connectivity features, such as Google Built-In and over-the-air updates, which may give it an edge for buyers prioritizing the latest tech. 
• Powertrain variety: Chevrolet often offers more powertrain options, which can include diesel variants, providing greater customization for specific needs. 

How to choose

• Choose Toyota if: Your priority is long-term ownership value, reliability, and strong resale value. 
• Choose Chevrolet if: You need maximum towing/payload capacity, a lower initial price, or are focused on the latest tech integrations like Google Built-In. 

What cars are comparable to Chevy Cruze?

Similar cars to the Chevrolet Cruze include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, and Mazda3, which are all compact sedans or hatchbacks known for their fuel efficiency and practicality. When choosing between them, consider factors like handling (Civic and Mazda3 are sportier), standard safety features (Corolla often includes more as standard), overall value (Elantra is a strong contender), and reliability. The Cruze has been discontinued by Chevrolet. 
Honda Civic

• Pros: More fun to drive than the Cruze.
• Cons: Styling can be polarizing. 

Toyota Corolla

• Pros: Known for being sensible and reliable, often includes more standard safety features than the Cruze. 
• Cons: Can be perceived as less exciting or lacking personality. 
• Note: The Corolla has more passenger space than the Cruze. 

Hyundai Elantra

• Pros: A solid choice with good handling and strong value for the money.
• Cons: 

Mazda3

• Pros: Sportier handling.
• Cons: Its infotainment system may not be as good as competitors. 

Other options

• Ford Focus: An option to consider, but the design is aging. 
• Nissan Versa: A subcompact option that is different in size but may appeal if you are looking for a new, small, fuel-efficient sedan. 
• Chevrolet Trax: A small SUV from Chevrolet that is easy to drive and has a user-friendly infotainment system. 
• Buick Verano: A more luxury-oriented option but has a milder engine and less performance than the Cruze.