The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan II 1.6 TD (139 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2016 and 2018, represented a key offering in Chevrolet’s compact car lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and reasonably equipped option, this variant aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a diesel-powered sedan with the convenience of an automatic transmission. It falls within the second generation of the Cruze sedan (J58), which was designed to offer a more refined and globally competitive product compared to its predecessor. The Cruze II was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, with the 1.6 TD Automatic serving as a popular choice for those prioritizing economy and ease of driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Sedan II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TD (139 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| 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) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 139 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87 Hp/l |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 2000 rpm (239.71 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LH7 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.7 mm (3.14 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.1 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1417 kg (3123.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 394 l (13.91 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 419 l (14.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 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 | 1527 mm (60.12 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 | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-dependent beam with stabilizer, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cruze 1.6 TD Automatic is the LH7 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes 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, allows for a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with the engine is a 9-speed automatic transmission, a relatively modern unit designed to provide smooth shifts and optimize fuel economy. This transmission was a key selling point, offering a more convenient driving experience compared to the manual transmission options available on other Cruze variants.
Driving Characteristics
The 139 horsepower and 325 Nm (239.71 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.6 TD engine, when coupled with the 9-speed automatic, resulted in a comfortable and generally capable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, though not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t always feel as responsive as higher-output versions like the 1.4 Turbo petrol. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.6 TD, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in urban traffic, but at the expense of some driver engagement and potentially slightly lower fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TD Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and steel wheels with wheel covers. Higher trim levels, often available as optional packages, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Safety features included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze Sedan II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporated a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it well-suited for city driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 TD Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and economical choice in the compact sedan segment. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and performance of some competitors, and the automatic transmission could occasionally feel sluggish. Compared to the petrol-powered Cruze variants, the 1.6 TD offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances. Compared to other diesel-powered competitors, such as the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus, the Cruze offered a competitive price point but often lagged behind in terms of overall refinement and driving dynamics.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze, despite being discontinued in many markets, remains a relatively common sight on used car lots. The 1.6 TD Automatic powertrain has proven to be reasonably reliable, although, like any diesel engine, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and occasional issues with the automatic transmission. However, with proper care, these engines can provide many years of service. Today, the Cruze 1.6 TD Automatic represents an affordable and fuel-efficient option for buyers seeking a compact diesel sedan, though potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel technology.
