A happy Cruze Eco (manual transmission) owner here. The car hit 98k miles over the weekend. Aside from the well-documented water pump issues, which GM's working hard to turn into a hassle-free fix, the car's been quite reliable and fun to drive. Aside from the polished areas on the steering wheel and shifter, it's hard to tell that it has 98k miles on it. The interior is holding up just fine, it still runs well, and it's consistently creamed its EPA ratings.
I don't know much about the auto transmission version since mine's a manual and I haven't spent much time in an auto Cruze. This manual is pretty easy to drive, even in stop and go traffic. It did need the OEM fluid swapped with Amsoil Synchromesh to smooth out some occasionally funky shifting. I like the short throws and light clutch. It's occasionally notchy when cold, and smooths out when warmed up.
The different trims of the Cruze drive quite differently. A 1LT will drive differently than a 2LT or LTZ due to tire size/speed rating and suspension tuning. The Eco manual drives like a longer-legged 2LT due to the transmission gearing and 17" V-rated tires. The automatics drive quite differently than the manuals. And the thirsty LS drives like a 1LT with a potato stuffed up its tailpipe. So, it's possible that my experience of the Cruze as a fun to drive fuel-sipper is the opposite from a person who drives a 1LT automatic.
Avoid the 2011 automatics on the used market. They won't get anywhere near EPA fuel economy thanks to very short gearing. The 2012 and later Cruze automatics will meet/beat EPA thanks to a taller final drive ratio.
Finally, if possible, buy a manual. It really uncorks the potential of the 1.4T in higher Cruze trims, gets better fuel economy, and is still easy to live with in suburban driving.
