The 2013 Cruze offered two gasoline four-cylinder engines: a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, both from GM’s Ecotec family.
In this model year, Chevrolet aimed to balance daily practicality with efficiency. The naturally aspirated 1.8L provided steady, reliable power, while the 1.4L turbo delivered stronger acceleration and improved highway fuel economy. A diesel option was not available in the U.S. in 2013; a Cruze Eco Diesel with a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel would arrive in the U.S. lineup later, for the 2014 model year. Both gasoline engines could be paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on trim and configuration.
Engines offered in the 2013 Cruze
The 2013 Cruze was built around two four-cylinder engines that covered base and turbo variants.
- 1.8-liter inline-4 naturally aspirated engine — about 138 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque.
- 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine — about 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, featuring direct injection and turbocharging for better low- to mid-range response.
These engines represent the core options for most trims in the 2013 Cruze lineup, offering a balance of efficiency and practical performance within a compact sedan package.
Power and transmission options
Transmission choices varied by trim and drivetrain, with both engines commonly offered with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. The turbocharged 1.4L typically provided stronger torque at lower RPMs, enhancing everyday responsiveness.
Diesel option
For reference, the 2013 Cruze did not offer a diesel engine in the United States. A diesel version—the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel Duramax—was introduced for the U.S. market with the 2014 Cruze Eco Diesel, expanding the lineup for buyers prioritizing fuel economy.
Summary: The 2013 Chevy Cruze used two four-cylinder engines—the 1.8L naturally aspirated and the 1.4L turbo—both part of GM’s Ecotec family, with manual or automatic transmissions available. A diesel option appeared later, in 2014, outside the 2013 model year in the U.S.