The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 2.0 TD (163 hp) Automatic, produced between 2011 and 2013, represented a key offering in Chevrolet’s attempt to gain a stronger foothold in the competitive compact sedan market. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the broader Cruze Sedan lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and comfortable convenience through its automatic transmission. This variant was primarily sold in Europe and other global markets where diesel engines were favored, and it played a role in establishing the Cruze as a globally recognized Chevrolet model. It was built on the General Motors Delta II platform, also known as the 1HX0 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TD (163 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 247.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 2750 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LNP |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1455 kg (3207.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1989 kg (4384.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 534 kg (1177.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4597 mm (180.98 in.) |
| Width | 1788 mm (70.39 in.) |
| Height | 1477 mm (58.15 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cruze 2.0 TD Automatic is the LNP engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The LNP engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing power output and efficiency. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to improved breathing and overall engine performance. The engine’s 16.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, aiding in efficient combustion. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth gear changes and enhance drivability. This transmission was a crucial element in attracting buyers who preferred the convenience of an automatic over a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.0 TD engine, when coupled with the six-speed automatic, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.9 seconds, and top speed was around 129.87 mph. Compared to the more powerful gasoline variants of the Cruze, or even the higher-output diesel options, this version prioritized fuel economy and relaxed cruising. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did result in a slight reduction in responsiveness compared to the manual transmission options. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears to reduce engine speed at highway speeds. The torque curve was relatively flat, providing good pulling power from low engine speeds, making it suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TD Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with CD player. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard configuration was fairly standard for the Cruze, with a straightforward layout and easy-to-use controls. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and parking sensors. Safety features such as ABS and airbags were standard equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze 2.0 TD Automatic utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employed a torsion beam setup, which was a cost-effective solution for the rear axle. Brakes were disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear, a common configuration for this class of vehicle. Hydraulic power steering provided a reasonable level of assistance, though it lacked the feel of more advanced steering systems. The car rode on 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/50 R17 tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 TD Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but some found the performance to be somewhat underwhelming. Compared to the gasoline-powered Cruze models, the diesel version offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the cost of some performance. Compared to other diesel-powered compact sedans in the European market, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Cruze offered a competitive price point but lacked some of the refinement and driving dynamics of its rivals. The automatic transmission was seen as a positive feature for those seeking convenience, but it did impact fuel economy slightly compared to the manual transmission versions.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 TD Automatic, while not a standout performer, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The diesel engine, when properly maintained, could accumulate high mileage without major issues. The automatic transmission also proved to be durable. In the used car market, these models are generally considered to be a good value for money, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and practicality. However, potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements of a diesel engine, including regular servicing of the fuel injection system and particulate filter. The Cruze, in general, helped Chevrolet establish a stronger presence in the global compact car segment, and the 2.0 TD Automatic variant played a role in appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel economy and convenience.