This Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel represents a new era in diesel performance for American cars. We’ve adapted a proven engine from Europe, the world’s diesel capital, and married it with the emissions-reducing technology that was perfected in the United States. It’s a great example of how Chevrolet’s global resources work harmoniously to produce the right product at the right time and for the right market.

—Jens Wartha, GM chief engineer

2014 Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel. Click to enlarge.

The US Cruze diesel produces an estimated 148 horsepower (110 kW) and estimated 258 lb-ft torque (350 N·m ) with 0-60 performance of 8.6 seconds—better than the Volkswagen Jetta TDI automatic and competitive with German diesel cars that dominate the US market, GM notes. (GM anticipates going head-to-head with the Jetta TDI.)

Peak torque is achieved at a low 2,000 rpm for a sustained feeling of power on demand at almost all speeds – particularly when passing or entering a freeway onramp.

The engine also has an overboost feature capable of increasing torque to an estimated 280 lb-ft (380 N·m), for stronger acceleration periods of about 10 seconds.

Cruze models in the United States and Canada offer a 1.4L turbo, a 1.4L Eco model and 1.8L naturally aspirated engine. The 2.0L turbo-diesel engine provides greater fuel economy than a comparably sized gasoline engine through greater thermal efficiency, a higher compression ratio and an unthrottled combustion process. It features an iron cylinder block and a forged steel crankshaft, each designed to stand up to the greater cylinder pressures that come with a turbo-diesel engine.

A lightweight aluminum cylinder head and aluminum intake manifold contribute to the engine’s comparatively low weight of 408 pounds (185 kg), helping the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel deliver a balanced ride with outstanding handling characteristics. Additional highlights include:

• Dual overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters with low-friction roller-finger followers.

• Quiet belt-driven cams/valvetrain with high-strength belt material and tensioner rated for 100,000 miles.

• High-strength aluminum pistons with reinforced top ring and integral combustion bowl design.

• Central direct injection, with the injector positioned in the middle of the cylinder, with the bowl in the piston serving as the combustion chamber. This enables a high 16.5:1 compression ratio that enhances power and combustion efficiency.

• Variable-swirl intake manifold design, which optimizes air charge mixture motion in the cylinders for a more-efficient combustion that enhances performance and reduces emissions.

• Common-rail fuel system with Piezo fuel injectors that create multiple injections per combustion for greater performance, combustion efficiency and quietness.

• Variable-nozzle turbocharger that broadens the engine’s torque curve, particularly at low rpm, and supports greater high-rpm horsepower. It is mounted close to the exhaust outlet of the engine for quicker spool-up of the turbine and faster light-off of the exhaust catalyst.

• Intercooling system produces a cooler, denser air charge for greater power.

• Piston oil jets that help reduce friction and optimize piston temperature for greater performance and efficiency.

• Turbocharger bearings are oil-lubricated and cooled via an oil cooler.

• Variable-displacement oil pump helps save fuel by optimizing the oil pressure, which reduces friction.

• Vacuum pump designed for lower engine friction.

• Ceramic glow plugs, which provide greater cold-start performance over conventional metal glow plugs (an engine oil heater is offered for cold climates).

• B20 bio-diesel compatibility.

Quiet, smooth performance is enabled by a number of features on and around the engine. There are also sound-absorbing features added to the Cruze, specific to the diesel model, including a unique dash mat, hood blanket and more.

A precise exhaust gas recirculation control system features a high-capacity cooler and bypass feature that enable the engine to meet US and Canadian emissions regulations. The exhaust after-treatment system is similar to what is used on Chevrolet’s heavy-duty trucks and vans equipped with the Duramax diesel, including a diesel particulate filter and SCR system for NO_x reduction. (The SCR system in the Cruze is specific to the vehicle.)

An approximately 4.5-gallon (17 liters) tank in the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel holds enough diesel emissions fluid to provide at least 10,000 miles (16,000 km) of driving between refills. The system is also designed for servicing to coincide with oil changes, for greater driver convenience.

With a starting price at $25,695, including a $810 destination charge (excludes tax, title, license, and dealer fees) Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, 3.20 final drive ratio, 140-amp alternator, 800 cold-cranking amps battery, 17-inch alloy wheels, ultra-low-rolling resistance all-season tires, rear spoiler, Aero Performance Package and leather-appointed seating.

Other standard features include Chevrolet’s infotainment system MyLink, a two-year maintenance plan, and a five-year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.

Chevrolet is planning a limited roll-out initially for what it anticipates will be a lower volume vehicle, starting with 13 markets,followed by a national rollout. Cristi Landy - Director, Chevrolet Small Car and Electrified Vehicle Marketing, noted that the company has “found it to be a good thing” to do a focused launch on a lower volume vehicle.

This initial launch will include the West Coast, some cities in the central US, and a few cities in the East.