The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 1.7 TD (130 hp) was a diesel-powered variant of the first-generation Cruze, produced between 2012 and 2013. Positioned as an economy-focused option within the Cruze lineup, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency without sacrificing practicality. This model was primarily sold in European and other international markets where diesel engines were more popular, and represented Chevrolet’s attempt to compete in the compact sedan segment with a fuel-conscious offering. It sat below the gasoline-powered 1.6L and 1.8L models in terms of outright performance, but offered superior fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 TD (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LUD |
| Engine displacement | 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1425 kg (3141.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1951 kg (4301.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 526 kg (1159.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4603 mm (181.22 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cruze 1.7 TD was the LUD engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This technology, combined with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowed for a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine produced 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 2500 rpm. The engine featured a relatively high compression ratio of 16.5:1, typical for diesel engines, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available with this engine, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 TD Cruze offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its gasoline counterparts. While not particularly quick – achieving 0-60 mph in around 9.5 seconds – it provided ample torque for everyday driving situations. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the engine lacked the responsiveness of higher-output gasoline engines. The 6-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque band. The gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. Compared to the 1.8L gasoline engine, the 1.7 TD offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the same level of refinement and power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 TD trim level typically represented an entry-level or mid-range offering within the Cruze lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS and front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered optional extras like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, cruise control, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was consistent across the Cruze range, featuring a straightforward design with easy-to-use controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze 1.7 TD utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance of ride comfort and handling. The front suspension was designed to absorb bumps and provide stable cornering, while the torsion beam rear suspension kept the car relatively flat during cornering. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension tuning was generally geared towards comfort, making it a suitable choice for daily commuting and long-distance driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Cruze 1.7 TD was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked refinement and could be noisy under acceleration. Compared to other diesel-powered compact sedans in the European market, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Cruze 1.7 TD offered a competitive price point and comparable fuel economy. However, it often lagged behind in terms of overall refinement and driving dynamics. Its fuel economy of around 52.3 US mpg combined was a major selling point, appealing to drivers seeking to minimize their fuel costs.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze 1.7 TD, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a role in Chevrolet’s efforts to establish itself in the European compact car market. The LUD engine proved to be relatively reliable, although like any diesel engine, it required regular maintenance and proper fuel quality. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, which can be costly to repair. Overall, the Cruze 1.7 TD remains a viable option for those seeking a practical and economical compact sedan.
