The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan (facelift, 2013) 1.4 Turbo with the automatic transmission represented a key offering in Chevrolet’s compact car lineup during the model’s first generation (2008-2016). Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh in 2013, this variant aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, modern features, and comfortable driving experience for the North American market. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it slotted between the base 1.8L engine option and the more performance-oriented 2.0L turbocharged models. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2013 to 2016, playing a significant role in Chevrolet’s attempt to gain market share in the highly competitive compact sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Sedan (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Turbo (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 147 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 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 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1345 kg (2965.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1883 kg (4151.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 538 kg (1186.09 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 469 l (16.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4603 mm (181.22 in.) |
| Width | 1797 mm (70.75 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.) |
| 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 | 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 heart of the 2013-2016 Chevrolet Cruze 1.4 Turbo Automatic is the LUJ engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The LUJ engine features multi-port fuel injection and a 9.5:1 compression ratio. It’s important to note this engine was designed with fuel economy in mind, incorporating features like direct ignition and variable valve timing. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from GM, was specifically tuned to work with the engine’s torque curve. This transmission featured a relatively wide gear ratio spread, prioritizing fuel efficiency in higher gears and providing adequate acceleration in lower gears. While not a performance-oriented transmission, it offered smooth shifts and a comfortable driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 horsepower and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.4 Turbo engine, when paired with the six-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience geared towards everyday usability rather than outright speed. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.9 seconds, which was adequate for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration maneuvers. Compared to the available 1.8L naturally aspirated engine, the 1.4 Turbo offered significantly more responsive acceleration, particularly at lower RPMs, thanks to the turbocharger. However, it didn’t match the performance of the 2.0L Turbo models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy, meaning the engine often operated at lower RPMs during cruising, contributing to its respectable fuel efficiency figures.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Turbo Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen. Safety features included ABS, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and Eco trims, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, a sunroof, and heated front seats. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over luxurious aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze Sedan utilized a front-wheel-drive layout 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 ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS was standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The chassis was designed to balance rigidity and weight, contributing to the car’s overall handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear, helping to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2013-2016 Chevrolet Cruze 1.4 Turbo Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and modern features. However, some critics noted the engine could feel underpowered at times, and the automatic transmission wasn’t as responsive as some competitors. Compared to other compact sedans like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Cruze offered a more stylish design and a more engaging driving experience, but it didn’t quite match the reliability reputation of its Japanese rivals. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 37 mpg combined, which was comparable to other turbocharged engines in the segment.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze, including the 1.4 Turbo Automatic variant, enjoyed moderate success in the North American market. While it didn’t become a class leader, it established Chevrolet as a viable contender in the compact sedan segment. The LUJ engine, while generally reliable, has been known to experience issues with oil consumption in some cases, a common concern in the used car market. The six-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be relatively durable, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity. Today, used examples of the 2013-2016 Cruze 1.4 Turbo Automatic are readily available and offer an affordable option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and reasonably well-equipped compact sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for oil consumption issues and ensure the vehicle has been properly maintained.
