Does a 2013 Chevy Cruze have a turbo?
Yes—many 2013 Cruze models use a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, while the base LS typically uses a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter. A diesel option arrived in the Cruze lineup starting with the 2014 model year, not 2013.
Engine options in the 2013 Cruze
The 2013 Cruze lineup offered two gasoline engines: a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Turbo availability varied by trim, with the turbo engine commonly found in mid-range and higher trims; the base LS typically used the 1.8L NA. The Cruze Clean Diesel, a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel, was not offered in the 2013 model year in the U.S. but arrived with later models.
Key engine options at a glance
- 1.8-liter I4, naturally aspirated: about 138 horsepower and around 125 lb-ft of torque; usually paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
- 1.4-liter turbocharged I4: about 138 horsepower and about 148 lb-ft of torque; offered on most mid-range trims and Eco; available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
- Diesel option (2.0-liter turbo-diesel): not available in the 2013 US Cruze lineup; introduced for the 2014 model year as Cruze Clean Diesel.
Conclusion: In practical terms, if a 2013 Cruze has a turbo, it is the 1.4-liter turbo engine; otherwise, the car uses the naturally aspirated 1.8-liter. Always check the window sticker or VIN to confirm the exact powertrain in a given car.
How to verify whether your specific Cruze has a turbo
Inspect under the hood for intercooler piping and a turbocharger, or check the engine cover, which often labels the engine as "1.4L Turbo" in turbo-equipped trims. The vehicle’s window sticker or the owner’s manual will list the engine type; you can also scan the VIN for the engine code with a dealership or online VIN decoder. If you’re buying used, ask for the original window sticker or service records noting turbo maintenance.
Note: Turbocharged engines provide stronger low-end torque, improving acceleration, but they require timely maintenance (fuel system, spark plugs, cooling) and may have different long-term wear characteristics compared to a naturally aspirated engine.
Summary
The 2013 Chevy Cruze offered two gasoline engines: a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter and a 1.4-liter turbocharged unit. The base LS was typically the 1.8L NA, while turbo power was available on mid-range trims, giving the car stronger torque and better acceleration. The Cruze Clean Diesel 2.0-liter turbo-diesel arrived with the 2014 model year, not 2013. To confirm which engine your car has, check the window sticker, the engine cover, or decode the VIN. This distinction matters for fuel economy, maintenance, and performance.
