Does a 2019 Chevy Cruze have a turbo?
Yes. The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze uses a turbocharged engine—the 1.4-liter Ecotec inline-four is standard in the U.S. market.
In this article, we examine how the turbo setup works on the 2019 Cruze, including engine specs, transmission options, and market context. We’ll also help prospective buyers understand what to look for when shopping a used 2019 Cruze.
Engine and turbo overview
The 2019 Cruze in the United States is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This turbocharged Ecotec engine is designed to deliver a broad torque band for responsive daily driving while aiming to keep fuel economy competitive. The engine is typically paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim and options chosen.
Note that the diesel option Chevrolet offered in earlier Cruze generations was not available for the 2019 model year in the U.S., as Chevrolet shifted away from Cruze diesel sales in this market. Market variations do exist in other regions, but for the U.S. 2019 Cruze, the turbocharged gasoline engine is the defining choice.
Key engine specifications
Below are the essential specifications for the 1.4L turbo engine found in the 2019 Cruze.
- Engine: 1.4-liter ECOTEC turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 153 hp
- Torque: 177 lb-ft
- Turbocharger: single turbocharger with direct injection
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (trim-dependent)
- Fuel system: direct injection
The turbo setup is designed to provide strong low- to mid-range torque for quick response in everyday driving, while still offering reasonable highway efficiency when paired with the automatic transmission.
Trims, market context, and options
For the 2019 model year in the United States, Chevrolet did not offer a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter engine in the Cruze lineup; the 1.4-liter turbo was the defining powertrain across the range. A diesel option existed in earlier years but was not offered on the 2019 Cruze in the U.S. market. With the 2019 model year, Chevrolet also ended Cruze sales in the U.S. after production, consolidating the lineup around turbocharged gasoline powertrains rather than diesels in this market.
When shopping a used 2019 Cruze, verify the exact engine and transmission configuration listed on the vehicle’s window sticker or VIN. Some trims may emphasize the manual transmission, while others may default to the 6-speed automatic.
Shopping notes for buyers
Before purchasing, confirm the car has the 1.4L turbo engine and check the transmission option listed for that specific vehicle. If you prefer a different driving experience, verify whether the model you’re considering offers the manual transmission option or the automatic, and review the vehicle history for any service notes related to the turbocharged engine.
Summary
Bottom line: Yes—the 2019 Chevy Cruze uses a turbocharged 1.4-liter Ecotec engine across the U.S. model lineup. It delivers a blend of responsive performance and efficiency, with transmission choices that vary by trim. If you’re evaluating a 2019 Cruze, the turbo engine is the defining powertrain to expect.
