The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan II, specifically the facelifted 2019 model year equipped with the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 153 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, represented a key offering in Chevrolet’s compact car lineup. Introduced for the 2018 model year as part of the second-generation Cruze, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for the North American market. The Cruze, designed as a global vehicle, was intended to compete with established rivals like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, offering a more modern design and feature set than its predecessor. This particular engine and transmission combination occupied a mid-range position within the Cruze lineup, slotting above the base 1.4L manual and below potential diesel offerings in other markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Sedan II (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Turbo (153 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 153 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 239 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (176.28 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LE2 |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1302-1329 kg (2870.42 – 2929.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 419 l (14.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51.9 l (13.71 US gal | 11.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4666 mm (183.7 in.) |
| Width | 1791 mm (70.51 in.) |
| Height | 1458 mm (57.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Rear track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 276 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 264 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Cruze variant is the LE2 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The turbocharger, a key component, forces more air into the cylinders, increasing power output. The engine also features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both the intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing efficiency and responsiveness. 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 geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency at highway speeds, with a relatively tall final drive.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter turbo engine, when paired with the six-speed automatic, delivered adequate performance for typical commuting and highway driving. Acceleration was not particularly brisk, with 0-60 mph times estimated around 8.5-9.5 seconds. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic felt slightly less responsive due to the inherent losses in the torque converter. However, the automatic provided a smoother and more convenient driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Compared to higher-output engine options available in other markets (like a 1.6L diesel), this variant prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The automatic transmission’s shift points were generally well-chosen, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Turbo Automatic Cruze typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and Premier, added features like heated front seats, a more advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a sunroof, and upgraded interior materials. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather options available on higher trims. Safety features included standard ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze Sedan II utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were also disc brakes on most trims, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Electric power steering offered light and easy steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Cruze for its modern styling, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, the 1.4-liter turbo engine with the automatic transmission received mixed reviews. Some reviewers found the engine to be underpowered, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Others appreciated its fuel economy and smooth operation. Compared to the base 1.4L manual, the automatic offered more convenience but sacrificed some fuel economy and responsiveness. Compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Cruze offered a competitive value proposition, but often lagged behind in terms of overall refinement and resale value.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze, despite its initial promise, faced several reliability issues, particularly with the 1.4-liter turbo engine and its cooling system. Reports of overheating and premature turbo failure were common, impacting the vehicle’s reputation in the used car market. As a result, the 1.4 Turbo Automatic Cruze typically commands lower prices than its competitors. However, well-maintained examples can still provide reliable transportation, and the engine’s relatively simple design makes it relatively easy to repair. The Cruze was discontinued in North America in 2019, but remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a compact sedan.
