2012 Chevrolet Cruze: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is a light-update year, not a redesign. The main change is a 2-mpg highway fuel-economy improvement for automatic models with the 1.4-liter turbo engine.
About the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
1st generation Cruze for the U.S. market (2011-2015), second model year.
Chevrolet marketed the Cruze as a compact sedan that felt more substantial than many small cars of its time. The core pitch was a roomy cabin and trunk, a quieter and more upscale interior than the old Cobalt, strong crash protection, and strong highway fuel economy, especially in Eco form. For most shoppers, the Cruze’s appeal was getting small-car efficiency without the stripped-down feel that many compact sedans still had in the early 2010s.
The LS is the straightforward daily-driver trim, with a 1.8-liter engine, 10 airbags, and a split-folding rear seat. LT adds the turbo engine and useful everyday features, while Eco focuses on highway mileage with aerodynamic body pieces and lighter wheels. LTZ is the comfort-focused version, with heated leather-appointed front seats, automatic climate control, keyless access, and rear parking sensors.
What changed, by category
2012 Chevrolet Cruze specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 38 mpg | 38 mpg | 39 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.4 cu-ft | 15.4 cu-ft | 15.4 cu-ft | 15.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.4 in | 35.4 in | 35.4 in | 35.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze a redesign?
No. The 2012 Cruze carries over the same basic body, cabin layout, and safety structure introduced for the 2011 U.S. launch, with fuel-economy and trim-equipment updates instead.
Does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze get better fuel economy than the 2011 model?
Yes, on automatic models with the 1.4-liter turbo engine. Highway ratings increased by 2 mpg: LT and LTZ reached 38 mpg, and Eco automatic reached 39 mpg.
What became standard on the 2012 Cruze LT?
The 2012 Cruze LT gained standard Bluetooth, a USB port, cruise control, steering-wheel audio controls, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and alloy wheels.
What changed on the 2012 Cruze Eco?
The 2012 Cruze Eco gained standard Bluetooth, a USB port, cruise control, steering-wheel audio controls, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The automatic version also improved from 37 to 39 mpg highway.
What changed on the 2012 Cruze LTZ?
The 2012 Cruze LTZ added standard keyless access with push-button start and standard fog lights. Its automatic turbo powertrain also improved from 36 to 38 mpg highway.