Does my Chevy Cruze have a turbo?

In short: it depends on the model and year. Many Cruze trims use a turbocharged engine, most notably the 1.4L turbo, while some base versions use a non-turbo 1.8L, and a turbo-diesel option exists in certain years and markets.

Turbo options in the Cruze lineup

Understanding the Cruze’s powertrain options helps you know whether your car could have a turbocharger. Below are the common configurations you’ll encounter across model years and trims.

• 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four: This is the most common turbo setup in mid- to higher-level trims (such as LT/LTZ) of the Cruze in many markets and years.


• 1.8-liter non-turbo inline-four: This baseline engine appears on some earlier or lower-trim Cruze models, without turbocharging.


• 2.0-liter turbo diesel: A turbocharged diesel option available in certain model years and regions (often marketed as Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel).

These configurations cover the typical US and global Cruze powertrains. If your specific car is a lower-trim or older base model, you’re more likely to see the non-turbo 1.8L; if you have LT/LTZ or higher, the 1.4L turbo or a diesel may be more likely. Always verify with documentation or a VIN lookup for your exact vehicle.

How to confirm on your Cruze

To determine whether your particular Cruze has a turbo, use a combination of physical checks and official documentation. The steps below help you verify without guessing.

Check the engine bay and exterior badging

Inspect for a turbocharger and associated piping, a front-mounted intercooler, and any “Turbo” or “Ecotec Turbo” badges. These are strong indicators of a turbocharged engine. If you don’t see turbo hardware or related intercooler piping, your car may be non-turbo.

• Look for a turbo housing connected to the exhaust manifold and metallic pipework running to the intercooler.


• Look for an intercooler (often visible at the front of the engine bay or behind the grille) as part of the intercooling system.


• Check the engine cover or rear badge for “Turbo” or “ECOTEC Turbo” branding.

Tip: Some trims hide turbo components somewhat; absence of a turbo badge does not guarantee absence of a turbo, so proceed to official documentation for confirmation.

Use official sources to confirm engine details

Official documentation and vehicle records provide definitive confirmation of your Cruze’s engine. Use the following methods to verify.

• Window sticker or Monroney label: See the engine description (for example, “1.4L turbo” or “2.0L Turbo Diesel”).


• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) lookup: Use a GM VIN decoder or contact a Chevrolet dealer to pull the exact engine specification for your VIN.


• Owner’s manual or service records: The manual typically lists the engine type; service records may note turbo-related maintenance or parts.


• Dealer confirmation: Provide your VIN to a Chevrolet service department and ask for the exact engine configuration and whether it includes a turbocharger.

Verifying with official sources is the most reliable way to know the precise turbo status of your Cruze, especially if you’re evaluating performance, maintenance, or part compatibility.

What turbo status means for performance and maintenance

Knowing whether your Cruze has a turbo affects maintenance intervals, required oil specifications, and potential boost-related issues. Turbocharged engines typically benefit from higher-quality synthetic oil, more frequent intake and intercooler inspections, and attention to boost control components. Non-turbo models have simpler air paths and exhaust systems, with different maintenance considerations.

In practice, if you have a 1.4L turbo, expect stronger mid-range torque and better highway acceleration than the non-turbo 1.8L, but also potential turbo-specific concerns such as intercooler cleanliness and turbocharger wear over time. A diesel turbo (where equipped) brings different maintenance needs and fuel considerations. Always follow GM’s recommended service schedule for your exact engine type.

Summary

Most Chevy Cruze models in many markets feature a turbocharged 1.4L engine, especially in mid- to higher trims, while older or base models may use a non-turbo 1.8L. A turbo-diesel option exists in certain years and regions. To be certain, check your window sticker, use a VIN decoder, or ask a Chevrolet dealer for the exact engine specification of your vehicle. Identifying the turbo status helps you understand performance expectations and maintenance needs for your Cruze.

Does the 2015 Chevy Cruze have a turbo?

The 2015 Chevy Cruze comes standard with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 138 horsepower. A turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine is optional, which also makes 138 horsepower. The Cruze Diesel has a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine that produces 151 horsepower.

What Chevy Cruze has a turbo?

Most modern Chevy Cruzes have a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, which became standard in model years like 2016, 2017, and 2018. Older models, like those from 2013-2015, offered the 1.4-liter turbo as an option alongside a non-turbocharged 1.8-liter engine, and some had a more powerful 2.0-liter turbodiesel. Higher trim levels of some older generations, like the LT and LTZ, typically came with the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the turbocharged engines in older Chevy Cruzes: 1mTechnical EvolutionYouTube · Oct 23, 2025
Key turbo models

• 2016-2018: The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine was standard across the lineup. 
• 2014-2015: The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine was an option on some models and standard on higher trims like the LT and LTZ. 
• 2013: The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine was an option, offering better torque than the standard 1.8-liter engine. 
• Diesel models: A turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine was an option on some models, like the 2015 Cruze, and produced more horsepower than the gas engines at the time. 

This video shows a specific 2014 Chevy Cruze 1.4L Turbo model: 55sPluggedIn AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 28, 2025

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.

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.