Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Hatchback II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (155 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LE2 |
| Engine displacement | 1399 cm3 (85.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1323 kg (2916.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 643 l (22.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1337 l (47.22 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4453 mm (175.31 in.) |
| Width | 1791 mm (70.51 in.) |
| Height | 1466 mm (57.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1527 mm (60.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-dependent beam with stabilizer lateral stability, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback II 1.4 (155 Hp) Automatic, produced from 2017 to 2018, was a significant offering in Chevrolet’s compact car lineup. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient option, this variant aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile hatchback with a balance of performance and economy. It was part of the second-generation Cruze hatchback (J58) built on the Delta platform, primarily intended for European and North American markets. This specific configuration – the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission – occupied a mid-range position within the Cruze Hatchback II portfolio, sitting between the base 1.6-liter engine and the more powerful diesel options available in some regions.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cruze Hatchback II 1.4 Automatic is the LE2 engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a low-inertia turbocharger, paired with an intercooler, to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) further enhances engine performance across the rev range. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from General Motors, was calibrated to provide smooth shifts and optimize fuel economy. While not a performance-oriented transmission, it offered a comfortable driving experience for everyday use. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for acceleration and highway cruising, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright speed.
Driving Characteristics
The 155 horsepower and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.4-liter turbo engine and automatic transmission resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the 9-10 second range. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic offered slightly slower acceleration due to inherent transmission losses. However, the automatic provided a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban traffic. The automatic transmission’s shift points were generally well-chosen, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.4-liter gasoline engine offered a more responsive feel, but lacked the low-end torque of the diesel engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cruze Hatchback II 1.4 Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like heated front seats, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available on higher trims. Dashboard configuration was generally straightforward and functional, with a focus on ease of use. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze Hatchback II utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front suspension featured a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. The car was equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback II 1.4 Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. It was generally praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics found the engine to be underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to competitors like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, the Cruze offered a competitive price point but lacked the same level of refinement and driving dynamics. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the combined fuel consumption of 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) being competitive within its class. Reliability was generally considered average, with some reports of minor issues with the engine and transmission.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze, despite being discontinued in North America in 2019, remains a relatively common sight on used car lots. The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. Common issues include oil consumption and potential turbocharger failure, but these are often preventable with regular oil changes and careful driving habits. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally considered reliable, although some units may experience occasional shifting issues. Today, the Cruze Hatchback II 1.4 Automatic represents an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a compact hatchback with decent fuel economy and a reasonable level of features.
