The Chevrolet Cruze Sedan II, specifically the Premier 1.4 Turbo (153 Hp) Automatic variant, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s compact car offering. Introduced with the 2019 facelift, this model year built upon the foundation of the second-generation Cruze (launched in 2016), aiming to provide a more refined and technologically advanced experience. Production of this specific configuration began in 2018 and continued through the model’s discontinuation in 2019. It occupied the top trim level within the Cruze Sedan lineup, positioned as the premium offering with enhanced features and a more powerful engine option compared to the base 1.4L turbo. The Cruze, in general, was designed to compete with established players in the North American compact car segment, such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, offering a blend of style, efficiency, and value.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Generation | Cruze Sedan II (facelift 2019) |
| Type | Premier 1.4 Turbo (153 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 153 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 239 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (176.28 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LE2 |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1356 kg (2989.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 393 l (13.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51.9 l (13.71 US gal | 11.42 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 | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Rear track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 276 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 264 mm |
| Tire size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cruze Premier 1.4 Turbo Automatic is the LE2 engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The LE2 engine is part of General Motors’ Small Engine Family, known for its compact size and relatively lightweight construction. The engine employs Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both the intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance across a wider RPM range. The 6-speed automatic transmission, a Hydra-Matic 6T40 unit, was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s torque curve. This transmission features a torque converter for smooth engagement and a wide range of gear ratios designed to maximize fuel economy during highway cruising while providing adequate acceleration in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 153 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque produced by the 1.4L turbo engine, when paired with the 6-speed automatic, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the 8-9 second range. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to the manual transmission equipped models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine sometimes felt strained during aggressive acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 1.6L diesel options available in other markets, the 1.4 Turbo Automatic prioritized refinement and ease of use over outright performance. The suspension tuning aimed for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well, but at the expense of some handling sharpness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Premier trim level of the 2019 Cruze Sedan II came standard with a comprehensive suite of features. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Standard technology included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. Available optional extras included a sunroof, a Bose premium audio system, and advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The dashboard layout was modern and driver-focused, with a clear instrument cluster and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Cruze Premier utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front and rear brakes were both disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. The Premier trim included standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The vehicle rode on 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/45 R17 tires, offering a good compromise between grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Cruze Premier 1.4 Turbo Automatic for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and generous standard features. However, some reviewers noted that the engine, while efficient, lacked the punch of some competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with EPA estimates of around 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. Compared to the base 1.4L turbo model, the Premier trim offered a more refined driving experience and a more luxurious interior. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered convenience but sacrificed some responsiveness and fuel efficiency. Reliability reports were mixed, with some owners reporting issues with the turbocharger and transmission, while others experienced no major problems.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Cruze, despite its relatively short production run in North America, established itself as a competitive offering in the compact car segment. The 1.4 Turbo Automatic powertrain, while not without its flaws, proved to be a reliable and efficient option for many drivers. On the used car market, the Cruze Premier 1.4 Turbo Automatic remains an affordable option for those seeking a well-equipped and comfortable compact sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for turbocharger and transmission issues and should thoroughly inspect any vehicle before purchase. The Cruze’s legacy lies in its attempt to offer a compelling alternative to established Japanese competitors, bringing a level of style and technology that was previously uncommon in the American compact car market.
