How fast is a Chevy Cruze LT?
In general, a Cruze LT equipped with the common turbocharged 1.4-liter engine accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 7.5 to 8.0 seconds and has a top speed near 130 mph. Non-turbo LT models are slower, typically closer to the 9–10 second range with lower top speeds. Exact figures depend on model year, transmission, and options.
The Cruze LT has spanned several generations, and engine availability changed over time. Early LT models offered a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter engine, while most later LT trims used a 1.4-liter turbo. As Chevrolet phased out the Cruze in the U.S. after the 2019 model year, performance figures cited here reflect the common configurations seen in the LT lineup over its production life. Real-world numbers can vary based on transmission, equipment, and condition.
Performance overview by powertrain
The speed and acceleration of the Cruze LT are mainly driven by the engine choice and the accompanying transmission. Here is a snapshot of how the two principal powertrains affected speed.
Engine options that powered the LT
Below is a concise look at the two main engines the LT used over its run, and how they typically influenced performance.
- 1.8L inline-4, naturally aspirated — roughly 138 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque; heavier feel and slower off the line; commonly about 9.0–10.0 seconds to 60 mph; top speed around 115–120 mph.
- 1.4L turbocharged inline-4 — roughly 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque; lighter and more responsive; commonly about 7.5–8.5 seconds to 60 mph; top speed around 125–130 mph.
Notes: Availability varied by year and market. Early LT trims sometimes used the 1.8L engine, while the turbo 1.4L became the prevalent LT option in later years. Exact figures depend on the specific model year and transmission.
0–60 mph and top speed by engine
These figures reflect typical laboratory estimates or common automotive testing sources and are influenced by transmission choice and optional equipment.
- 1.8L I4: 0–60 mph usually in the 9.0–10.0 second range; top speed typically 115–120 mph.
- 1.4L turbo I4: 0–60 mph usually in the 7.5–8.5 second range; top speed typically 125–130 mph.
Actual performance in daily driving can vary due to transmission (manual vs. automatic), vehicle weight from options, tire condition, elevation, and fuel quality. Turbo-equipped cars tend to feel more sprightly in everyday merges and passing maneuvers.
Practical context: how fast is “fast” for a compact sedan?
For a compact sedan like the Cruze LT, speed isn’t the sole measure of performance. Many buyers judge it by brisk acceleration for daily driving, highway merging ease, and legible top-end speed to cruise on interstates. In real-world driving, the 1.4L turbo LT typically delivers noticeably quicker responses than the older 1.8L naturally aspirated version, especially in urban and highway scenarios.
What affects the numbers in the real world
Several factors can push performance figures above or below the published ranges. Understanding these helps explain why two Cruze LT cars can feel different on the same day.
- Transmission type and shifting behavior (manual vs. 6‑speed automatic).
- Vehicle weight from options (sunroof, tires, alloys, and trim level).
- Tire condition and road surface, plus elevation and ambient temperature.
- Engine wear, fuel quality, and regular maintenance.
For owners seeking the quickest possible times, maintaining fuel economy-prioritizing eco modes can also influence throttle response and acceleration feel.
Summary
The Chevy Cruze LT’s speed characteristics vary by engine and year. A typical 1.4L turbo LT delivers 0–60 mph in roughly 7.5–8.5 seconds with a top speed near 130 mph, making it competitive in daily driving for a compact sedan. The older 1.8L naturally aspirated LT versions are slower—roughly 9–10 seconds to 60 mph and tops around 115–120 mph. Because production ended after the 2019 model year, exact figures depend on the specific vehicle configuration and its maintenance history.
Bottom line
If speed matters most in a used Cruze LT purchase, prioritize a 1.4L turbo with an automatic or manual transmission, and verify the condition of tires and drivetrain for the best acceleration and highway performance. Always check the VIN and the exact build sheet to confirm which engine and trim are in your specific car.
