Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for drivers seeking to minimize environmental impact and save money on gas. The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze offers impressive fuel economy, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious consumers. This article provides a detailed overview of the Chevrolet Cruze 2012 fuel consumption, including engine and transmission configurations, fuel-saving features, and potential causes of high fuel consumption.
Engine and Transmission Options
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze offers two engine options, each paired with different transmission configurations to optimize fuel efficiency:
1.4L Turbocharged Engine:
Exceptional fuel efficiency of up to 36 mpg city and 42 mpg highway (with automatic transmission)
Paired with six-speed manual or automatic transmission
1.8L Engine:
Balance between power and efficiency
EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and 36 mpg highway (with automatic transmission)
Paired with six-speed automatic transmission
Fuel-Saving Features
In addition to efficient engines, the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze includes several fuel-saving features:
- Eco Mode: Optimizes engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel efficiency
- Low Rolling Resistance Tires: Reduce drag and improve fuel economy
- Electric Power Steering: Eliminates the need for a belt-driven power steering pump, saving energy
Fuel Economy Comparison
Compared to other compact cars in its class, the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze offers highly competitive fuel economy:
- Honda Civic: 28 mpg city / 39 mpg highway
- Toyota Corolla: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- Hyundai Elantra: 28 mpg city / 39 mpg highway
High Fuel Consumption
Despite its impressive fuel economy, some drivers may encounter high fuel consumption. Factors contributing to this include:
- Driving conditions (stop-and-go traffic, hills, high speeds)
- Vehicle maintenance (worn spark plugs, clogged air filters, faulty oxygen sensors)
- Personal driving habits (aggressive acceleration, sudden braking, idling)
Potential Causes and Troubleshooting
To address high fuel consumption, consider the following:
- Check oxygen (O2) sensors for proper operation
- Replace spark plugs as recommended by the manufacturer
- Change the air filter regularly
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle for underlying issues
By addressing these potential causes, you can improve your Chevrolet Cruze’s fuel efficiency, reduce fuel costs, and minimize environmental impact.
FAQs on 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Fuel Consumption
What is the fuel consumption of a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
The fuel consumption of a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze varies depending on the engine and transmission combination. The 1.4L turbocharged engine with the six-speed automatic transmission offers the best fuel economy of up to 36 mpg city and 42 mpg highway.
How does the six-speed manual transmission affect fuel economy?
The six-speed manual transmission provides slightly better fuel efficiency compared to the six-speed automatic transmission. This is because the manual transmission allows for more driver control over the engine’s power and torque, leading to more efficient gear selection.
What is Eco Mode and how does it improve fuel economy?
Eco Mode is a feature that optimizes the engine and transmission settings to maximize fuel efficiency. When activated, Eco Mode adjusts the throttle response, shift patterns, and air conditioning settings to reduce fuel consumption.
What other fuel-saving features does the Cruze have?
In addition to Eco Mode, the Cruze has other fuel-saving features such as low rolling resistance tires, which reduce drag and improve fuel economy, and electric power steering, which eliminates the need for a belt-driven power steering pump, saving energy.

Feature | Characteristic | Advice/Key Point |
---|---|---|
Engine Options | 1.4L Turbocharged Engine | Provides exceptional fuel efficiency of up to 36 mpg city and 42 mpg highway (with automatic transmission). |
Engine Options | 1.8L Engine | Offers a balance between power and efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and 36 mpg highway (with automatic transmission). |
Transmission Options | Six-Speed Manual Transmission | Provides greater driver control and can improve fuel economy slightly compared to automatic transmissions. |
Transmission Options | Six-Speed Automatic Transmission | Offers a smooth and convenient driving experience, while still maintaining good fuel efficiency. |
Eco Mode | Optimizes engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel efficiency. | Activate “Eco Mode” through a button on the dashboard to enhance fuel savings. |
Fuel-Saving Features | Low Rolling Resistance Tires | Reduces drag and improves fuel economy. |
Fuel-Saving Features | Electric Power Steering | Saves energy by eliminating the need for a belt-driven power steering pump. |
Fuel Economy Comparison | Honda Civic | 28 mpg city / 39 mpg highway |
Fuel Economy Comparison | Toyota Corolla | 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway |
Fuel Economy Comparison | Hyundai Elantra | 28 mpg city / 39 mpg highway |