Chevrolet
Cruze
Toyota
Cressida
Chevrolet Cruze vs Toyota Cressida: 2018 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Chevrolet Cruze comes out ahead of the Toyota Cressida on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Cruze
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment for the first-generation Cruze (model years approximately 2009-2016), with widespread reports of severe and frequent mechanical failures leading to high ownership costs and frustration. This generation is frequently described as one of the worst vehicles owners have experienced. Sentiment for the second generation (approximately 2016-2019) is mixed but notably more positive, with some owners reporting good reliability and satisfaction, particularly with highway comfort and fuel economy.
Best version to buy
Second-generation models (2016-2019) are strongly preferred over the first generation. Within the second generation, the 1.4L turbocharged gasoline engine paired with the conventional 6-speed automatic transmission is recommended over the CVT (found in the Spark) for better reliability.
Known issues
- ⚠**First Generation (2009-2016) Issues:** Coolant system leaks/failures: leading to overheating and potential engine destruction. Very frequent. Turbocharger failures: around 90,000 miles (145,000 km). Very frequent.
- ⚠**Second Generation (2016-2019) Issues:** Coolant system seepage/leaks: noted as a slower issue than Gen 1. Recurrent. Oil leaks: from valve cover and oil filter housing. Recurrent.
Cressida
Overall
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by deep nostalgia and a strong reputation for exceptional reliability, comfort, and longevity. The vehicle is consistently described as a durable, comfortable, and practical family sedan or wagon that provided trouble-free service for decades and high mileage. Many owners report vehicles lasting well over 200,000 miles with minimal issues, contributing to Toyota's legendary reliability reputation.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific model year or trim as "best." Discussions involve multiple generations (e.g., 1978, 1986, 1991) with similar praise for reliability. The primary differentiator is the engine: models with the problematic 7M engine (late 80s/early 90s) are noted for their flaw, while those with other engines (e.g., 4M, 22R) or that have undergone an engine swap (commonly to a 1JZ or 2JZ) are viewed more favorably.
Known issues
- ⚠Head gasket failure on 7M-GE/GTE engines: Catastrophic and well-documented failure, particularly in 1987-1989 models, attributed to a factory error in head bolt torque specification after a material change. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠General age-related failures: "Nigging issues," material fatigue, and small problems due to owner neglect or the vehicle exceeding its engineered lifespan.
- ⚠Automatic transmission performance: Described as a "4-speed slushbox" with very slow response times, making the driving experience lethargic. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Chevrolet Cruze is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Toyota Cressida, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Toyota Cressida is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Cruze or the Toyota Cressida?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Cruze and the Toyota Cressida. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Cruze or the Toyota Cressida?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Cruze or the Toyota Cressida?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Cruze or the Toyota Cressida?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.