Are all Chevy Cruze turbocharged?

No. The Chevrolet Cruze offered a mix of engine options over its production run, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged choices. While many trims used turbocharged engines, there were base models with non-turbo engines and a diesel option in certain years and markets.

Engine options over the Cruze’s production run

The Cruze was launched in 2008 and evolved through 2019 with several gasoline and diesel powerplants. The core pattern in many markets was a combination of a naturally aspirated base engine and one or more turbocharged variants, with a diesel option appearing in later years. The exact availability varied by year and region.

Key engine configurations seen in the Cruze lineup include the following:



• 1.8-liter inline-4 gasoline engine (naturally aspirated) used in base trims in some early model years.


• 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine became the most common turbo option in many trims starting in the early 2010s.


• 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel (Duramax) inline-4 offered in the United States for certain years and sold in various international markets.

In addition to the configurations above, some non-U.S. markets offered other turbocharged gasoline engines and diesel variants, reflecting regional emissions and performance preferences. Engine availability varied by year and by market.

Overall, not every Cruze was turbocharged. Buyers could encounter naturally aspirated engines as well as turbocharged gasoline and diesel options, depending on model year and market.

Market-by-market trends

United States and Canada

In North America, the Cruze’s powertrains typically included a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine for base models and a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine for most mid- to higher-trim options. A 2.0-liter turbo diesel was introduced for selected years (notably from 2015 onward) and offered for fuel economy-focused buyers. This means there were non-turbo and turbo options within the U.S. Cruze lineup.

Global markets

Outside North America, engine choices varied more widely. Some regions saw additional turbocharged gasoline options, while others relied on diesel variants or other turbo-powered configurations. The Cruze’s international lineup reflected local demand, emissions standards, and supplier arrangements, so not all markets mirrored the U.S. offerings.

What to verify when assessing a specific Cruze

Because engine availability changed across model years and regions, it’s important to confirm the exact engine for any particular Cruze you’re considering. Check the window sticker, the owner’s manual, or the vehicle identification number (VIN) details to confirm whether a given car uses a naturally aspirated or turbocharged engine.

Summary

The Chevy Cruze did not share a single engine family. While turbocharged gasoline engines (notably the 1.4L) were common in many trims and the 2.0L turbo diesel appeared in later years, there were also naturally aspirated 1.8L variants and other region-specific engines. If you’re shopping a Cruze, always verify the exact engine specified for the model year and market in question.

Does a 2017 Chevy Cruze have a turbo?

2017 Chevrolet Cruze Performance
This exciting compact features a 1.4L turbocharged engine that not only offers 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft torque, but incredible response and handling as well. Whether you prefer the ease of a 6-speed automatic or the control of a 6-speed manual, the 2017 Cruze offers both.

Are all Chevy Cruze turbo?

The Chevy Cruze L, LS, LT, and Premier are all equipped with the 1.4L turbo ECOTEC 4-cylinder engine, which is capable of 153 HP and 177 lb. -ft. of torque. The Cruze Diesel trim is equipped with a 1.6L turbo-diesel ECOTEC 4-cylinder engine, which delivers 137 HP and 240 lb.

Do all 2014 Chevy Cruze have turbo?

Though the base Cruze LS is equipped with an uninspiring 1.8-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine, the other gas trim levels have a turbocharged 1.4-liter that provides better acceleration after initial hesitation from a standing start.

What year to stay away from Chevy Cruze?

The Chevy Cruze years to avoid are primarily 2011-2015, with particular issues noted for the 2013 and 2016 model years, due to common problems like transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine issues. The 2016 model is also mentioned for engine problems, while the 2018 year is frequently cited for engine and electrical problems.
 
This video discusses the most common problems with the Chevy Cruze: 58sSteeveGMTECHYouTube · Jul 22, 2025
Years with most reported problems 

• 2011–2015: This first generation is widely cited as having the most issues, including transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine problems like cracked pistons and faulty water pumps. 
• 2016: This year is specifically called out for engine issues, potentially related to the 1.4T engine. 
• 2018: Many owners have reported engine and electrical problems with this model year, along with a specific recall for transmission fluid leaks. 

Specific issues to look out for

• Engine: Common problems include cracked pistons, faulty water pumps, and coolant leaks, particularly on 1.4T engines. 
• Transmission: Harsh shifting and complete transmission failure are frequent complaints across several model years. 
• Cooling System: Leaks from plastic cooling components, especially around the 100,000-mile mark, can lead to overheating and engine damage. 
• Electrical: Electrical system failures, including issues with the ignition, lighting, and control modules, were common in several years. 

You can watch this video to learn about common Chevy Cruze problems and fixes: 59sAJS WoodworksYouTube · May 22, 2024
How to mitigate risks

• Check the vehicle history: Always get a vehicle history report and verify that all recall work has been completed. 
• Perform a pre-purchase inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before buying to identify any existing or potential problems. 
• Be aware of mileage: Many of the common failures, such as water pump failure, occur at higher mileage (around 100,000 miles).