Is a Chevy Cruze a 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder?

The Chevy Cruze uses four-cylinder engines, and GM never offered a factory six-cylinder version of this model.

This article reviews the Cruze’s engine lineup across generations and markets, noting the common four-cylinder configurations, including the sporty SS variant and any diesel options that were available outside the United States.

Engine options across the Cruze lineup

Here is a concise overview of the four-cylinder engines that powered the Cruze, including gasoline and diesel options and the high-performance variant.

• 1.8-liter inline-four gasoline engine


• 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine (common in later US models)


• 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine (used in the Cruze SS performance variant)


• 2.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-four engine (available in select overseas markets)

In every case, the Cruze’s powerplants are four cylinders. There has never been a factory six-cylinder Cruze in GM’s lineup.

Cruze SS: A four-cylinder performance variant

The Cruze SS, marketed as the sport-oriented version, relied on a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to deliver higher performance while remaining four-cylinder under the hood.

Regional variations

Engine availability varied by region and model year. The United States and Canada primarily offered four-cylinder gasoline options, with a diesel four-cylinder available in some markets outside North America. No market offered a six-cylinder Cruze.

• United States/Canada: 1.8L naturally aspirated I4, 1.4L turbo I4; 2.0L turbo I4 in the Cruze SS


• Other markets: 2.0L Duramax diesel I4 in certain trims and regions; 1.4L turbo I4 in various configurations

Conclusion: Across generations and regions, the Cruze remained a four-cylinder vehicle, including its performance and diesel variants.

Bottom line

Ultimately, the Chevy Cruze is powered by four-cylinder engines, with no factory six-cylinder option offered in its production run.

Summary

In brief: The Chevy Cruze never used a six-cylinder engine. From its introduction in 2008 through its final US model year in 2019 (and similar timelines in other markets), the Cruze relied on four-cylinder powertrains, including the 1.8L and 1.4L turbo gasoline engines, the 2.0L turbo four for the Cruze SS, and the 2.0L Duramax diesel in select overseas markets. Buyers interested in a six-cylinder option would need to look to different Chevy models.

Is the Chevy Cruze 4 or 6 cylinder?

This model is home to a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that produces 153-horsepower, and gives you about 30 city and 40 highway miles per gallon.

What years were bad for Chevy Cruze?

The worst Chevy Cruze model years are generally considered to be 2011-2015, with the 2012 and 2014 being particularly problematic due to frequent transmission failures, coolant leaks, and other engine or electrical issues. Other years with significant problems include 2013 and 2015, while 2016 and 2017 are generally more reliable after a redesign, though some issues like cracked pistons were reported in some 2016 and 2017 models. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems in the 2011-2015 Chevy Cruze: 58scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 17, 2022
Problem years to avoid

• 2011, 2012, and 2014: These are frequently cited as the worst years, with issues including transmission failure, coolant leaks (including head gasket and water pump failures), and engine problems. The 2014 model also had recalls for a faulty front axle shaft.
• 2013 and 2015: These models also have a higher number of complaints, particularly for transmission issues, leaks, and electrical problems. 

This video discusses common problems with the 1.4T engine in the first generation Chevy Cruze, which may be relevant to these years: 58s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Mar 24, 2020
Years to approach with caution

• 2016-2018: These later years are generally more reliable, but some specific issues have been reported. Some 2016 and 2017 models experienced cracked pistons. The engine stop-start system in some of these models may also be undesirable for some drivers. 

Common problems across multiple years

• Cooling system issues: Leaks are common across many model years, often due to faulty water pumps, thermostats, or hoses, leading to overheating. 
• Transmission problems: Shifting issues and complete failure are common, particularly in the first generation models. 
• Engine and turbocharger problems: Oil leaks, oil consumption, and turbocharger failure are known issues that can often be linked to poor maintenance or low-quality oil. 
• Electrical problems: Issues like malfunctioning power windows, headlights, or infotainment systems can occur. 

How to tell if a car is a 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder?

You can tell if your car is a 4 or 6 cylinder by checking under the hood for spark plug wires or ignition coils to count them, as you'll see four or six respectively. Other methods include looking for engine size labels under the hood, checking your owner's manual or vehicle registration, or inspecting the VIN. 
Methods to check your engine

• Count spark plugs or wires: Open the hood and count the spark plug wires or ignition coils going into the top of the engine. You will find either four or six. 
• Look for labels: Check the engine cover or the underside of the hood for a sticker that specifies the engine size, such as "2.5L" for a 4-cylinder or "3.8L V6" for a 6-cylinder. 
• Consult your owner's manual: The most direct way to find the information is in your car's owner's manual, which will have the exact engine specifications. 
• Check the VIN: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be used to look up your car's exact specifications online or by entering it into a VIN decoder. 
• Listen to the engine sound: V6 engines often have a distinct, smoother, and sometimes louder sound compared to the typically more raspy sound of a 4-cylinder engine. 

Is a Chevy Cruze a V6?

Engines fitted to the Cruze are the 1.6-liter Family 1 inline-four, a 1.8-liter version of the same, and a 2.0-liter VM Motori RA 420 SOHC turbocharged common rail diesel, marketed as VCDi. All three engines are coupled to a five-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission featuring Active Select.