The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 2.0 TD (163 hp) was a diesel-powered variant of the first-generation Cruze, produced between 2011 and 2013. Positioned as a fuel-efficient option within the Cruze lineup, it aimed to appeal to European drivers seeking a comfortable and economical compact sedan. This model represented Chevrolet’s attempt to gain a stronger foothold in the competitive European market, offering a blend of American practicality and European diesel technology. It sat in the mid-range of the Cruze offerings, above the base gasoline models but below the higher-trim levels with more luxurious features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TD (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 2000 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LNP |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1427 kg (3146 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 503 kg (1108.93 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 track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Introduction
The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 2.0 TD, produced from 2011 to 2013, was a key component of Chevrolet’s strategy to compete in the European compact car segment. Built on the global Delta platform (specifically the 1HX0/A3 variant), the Cruze aimed to offer a compelling alternative to established rivals like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and Opel/Vauxhall Astra. The 2.0 TD variant, powered by the LNP engine, was specifically designed to cater to European preferences for diesel engines, offering a balance of performance and fuel economy. It was a significant model for Chevrolet, representing a move towards more sophisticated and globally-relevant vehicles.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cruze 2.0 TD was the LNP engine, a 1991cc inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilized a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This technology, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowed for increased power and efficiency. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The high compression ratio of 17.5:1 was typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The engine was transversely mounted, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 TD engine delivered respectable performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.1 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 127.38 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provided ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, but the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel economy than outright acceleration. Compared to the gasoline-powered Cruze models, the 2.0 TD offered significantly more torque, resulting in stronger low-end and mid-range acceleration. However, it lacked the higher-revving character of the gasoline engines. Compared to other diesel variants in the Cruze lineup, like the 1.7 TD, the 2.0 TD offered a noticeable power increase, but at the cost of slightly higher fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TD variant of the Cruze typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, although not as luxurious as some of its competitors. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather seats, and a more advanced infotainment system. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze 2.0 TD featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, providing a reasonably direct feel. The chassis was designed to provide a good balance between handling and ride comfort, prioritizing stability and predictability over outright agility. The weight distribution was fairly balanced, contributing to the car’s neutral handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 TD received mixed reviews from automotive critics. It was generally praised for its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics found the handling to be somewhat uninspired and the engine to be a bit noisy. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, the Cruze was often seen as offering good value for money, but lacking the refinement and driving dynamics of those established competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 2.0 TD achieving around 42 US mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 TD, while not a runaway success, played a role in Chevrolet’s efforts to establish itself in the European market. The LNP engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, the 2.0 TD variant is often sought after by buyers looking for a fuel-efficient and practical compact sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the car has been properly maintained. The Cruze 2.0 TD represents a snapshot of Chevrolet’s ambition to compete globally, offering a blend of American practicality and European diesel technology.
