The Chevrolet Cruze Combi (facelift, introduced in 2013) 1.4 Turbo, producing 140 horsepower, represented a key offering in Chevrolet’s European lineup. Positioned as a practical and relatively efficient option within the Cruze Combi range, it aimed to appeal to families and individuals needing the versatility of a station wagon with a reasonable purchase price. Production of this variant ran from 2013 to 2016, falling within the broader second-generation Cruze (J300) platform, which was a significant model for General Motors in its attempt to gain market share in the compact segment. The Combi body style, or station wagon, was particularly important in European markets where practicality is highly valued.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Combi (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Turbo (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4900 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1850 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LUJ |
| Engine displacement | 1362 cm3 (83.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm (2.85 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1405 kg (3097.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1478 l (52.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4681 mm (184.29 in.) |
| Width | 1797 mm (70.75 in.) |
| Height | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, designated LUJ, was a key component of the Cruze Combi’s appeal. This engine belonged to GM’s family of small-displacement turbocharged engines, designed to offer a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It featured multi-point fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler. The engine’s 16.5:1 compression ratio was relatively high for a turbocharged engine, contributing to its efficiency. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing drivers with a degree of control over the engine’s power delivery. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a blend of acceleration and highway cruising, though it wasn’t particularly sporty in its feel.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.5 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.4 Turbo engine delivered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9 seconds, which was competitive within its class but noticeably slower than higher-powered Cruze variants like the 1.6L diesel. The turbocharger did provide a noticeable boost in power at lower RPMs, making it relatively easy to keep up with traffic. However, the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or during aggressive acceleration. The manual transmission, while precise, had a relatively long throw. Overall, the driving experience was comfortable and predictable, prioritizing practicality over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Turbo Combi typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as LS and LT, added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system, cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, though some critics found the interior materials to be somewhat low-quality compared to rivals.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze Combi featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, but it wasn’t particularly engaging for enthusiastic drivers. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sharp handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Cruze Combi 1.4 Turbo was generally well-received as a practical and affordable station wagon. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but some noted its somewhat uninspired driving dynamics and the perceived low quality of some interior materials. Compared to the diesel-powered Cruze Combi models, the 1.4 Turbo offered less torque and slightly lower fuel economy, but it was generally more affordable to purchase. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the Cruze Combi offered a competitive price point but often lagged behind in terms of refinement and driving experience.
Legacy
The 1.4 Turbo engine in the Cruze Combi proved to be reasonably reliable, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors over the long term. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timely replacement of wear items, was crucial for ensuring its longevity. Today, the Cruze Combi 1.4 Turbo represents an affordable entry point into the station wagon market. While it may not offer the same level of sophistication as some of its rivals, it remains a practical and spacious vehicle for those seeking a budget-friendly family car. Its availability of parts and relatively simple mechanical design make it a viable option for DIY mechanics.
