The Cruze has been a recall-generating phenomenon (as in, lots and lots and lots of recalls) and is made by the UAW in a Government Motors plant in Ohio. It does not get very good reliability ratings with any engine and it’s pretty crap to drive. It’s also at least one if not two sizes smaller than the Altima.
The Altima is made in Tennessee and has been very reliable over its generations, with the exception of the 2.5L I4 engine. Avoid that and it’ll be a good drive.
Have you considered a Kia (made in Alabama) or even a Hyundai (which has a 10 year, 100K warranty)? What’s the budget and intended use of the vehicle?
“The Altima is made in Tennessee and has been very reliable over its generations, with the exception of the 2.5L I4 engine.
That is the mainstay motor for years and the only option other than a thirsty V6 that I know of. If true then the OP should keep looking for a late model Optima, Sonata or even Mazda 6. Camery and Accords are fine cars as well but more expensive on the used market.
Speaking as a Kia Optima owner, I can't say enough good things about the car.
I'm on my third one in ten years. I've never had to use the warranties -- oil & filter change every 5K, plus other scheduled maintenance (2 30K, 60K and 100K) and that's it.
Nothing ever breaks or ceases to work properly. Never a rattle, creak or grind. 28 mpg city, 32 mpg highway.
Comfortable, reliable, economical. Definitely worth checking out.
We love our Kia Soul. Plenty of headspace for tall hubby, and fun to drive for me.
Kia plant is in West Point, GA.
Hyundai plant is in Montgomery, AL.
Plants are just a little over an hour apart.
Just an FYI!!