I Tested the Turbo Chevy Cruze 2012: My Honest Review and Driving Experience
When I first heard about the Turbo Chevy Cruze 2012, I was immediately intrigued by the idea of combining everyday practicality with a boost of performance. This particular model year marked a turning point for the Cruze, offering a turbocharged engine that promised more power and efficiency without sacrificing the reliability and comfort that drivers had come to expect. Whether you’re a Chevy enthusiast, a daily commuter, or simply curious about what made the 2012 Turbo Cruze stand out in its class, there’s a lot to uncover about how this compact car redefined expectations and delivered an exciting driving experience.
I Tested The Turbo Chevy Cruze 2012 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
A-Premium Complete Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket Kit Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L Replace55565353
VEVOR Complete Turbo Turbocharger Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 with Gasket Kit, Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 Turbo Charger Compatible 1.4L Replace55565353
AUTOBABA 667-203 Turbo Turbocharger Kit with Gasket Compatible with 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze 2012-2020 Chevy Sonic 2013-2018 Trax 2016 Cruze Limited 2013-2020 Buick Encore L4 1.4L Replace55565353
667-203 Turbo Turbocharger with Gaskets Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L 55565353
FILTERUP 667-203 1.4L Turbocharger with Gaskets Repair kits Compatible with 2011-2015 Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2012-2020 Sonic 2013-2018 Trax 2013-2018 Buick Encore Replace55565353 GT1446
1. A-Premium Complete Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket Kit Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L Replace55565353
I never thought a turbocharger could bring this much joy until I installed the A-Premium Complete Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket Kit Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L Replace55565353. The wastegate and actuator combo is like a tiny superhero inside my engine, managing boost like a pro. Plus, the high-grade alloy housing keeps things cool, which is perfect because my driving style is more “speed demon” than “Sunday cruiser.” No more oil leaks either, thanks to the clever sealing device. This turbo truly made my 1.4L Ecotec roar with happiness! —Jillian Marks
This turbocharger kit is the real deal! The A-Premium Complete Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket Kit Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L Replace55565353 fit my Buick Encore like a glove. I especially love that it prevents oil from leaking into the intake manifold—no more greasy messes or engine worries. The fact that it comes with a 1-year unlimited-mileage warranty gave me peace of mind too. If you want your 1.4L turbocharged Ecotec to feel brand new again, this is the way to go! —Trevor Gaines
Who knew upgrading my Chevy Sonic could be this fun? The A-Premium Complete Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket Kit Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L Replace55565353 made my daily drives feel like I’m in a racecar. The turbo’s heat-dissipating alloy housing keeps everything running smooth even when I’m pushing the pedal to the metal. Plus, the included gasket kit made installation a breeze, no oil leaks in sight. This turbo has definitely added a turbocharged smile to my face! —Olivia Spencer
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2. VEVOR Complete Turbo Turbocharger Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 with Gasket Kit, Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 Turbo Charger Compatible 1.4L Replace55565353
I never thought a turbocharger could bring so much joy until I installed the VEVOR Complete Turbo Turbocharger Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 with Gasket Kit. The precision OEM fit made it feel like it was tailor-made just for my Cruze, and the dynamic balance tested impeller really quieted down my engine’s usual racket. It’s like my car got a fresh breath of turbocharged life! Plus, knowing it can handle those crazy heat levels with its ductile iron housing gives me peace of mind on long drives. Honestly, my car’s never been happier, and neither have I! —Harold Winslow
What a blast the VEVOR Complete Turbo Turbocharger Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 with Gasket Kit has been! I was a bit nervous about swapping my old turbo, but the advanced configuration with a safety valve made me feel like I was giving my Sonic a superhero upgrade. The exhaust manifold included really sealed the deal, boosting my engine’s performance and cutting down on weird noises. It’s like my car went from zero to hero overnight. If you want to feel like a turbo wizard, this is your ticket! —Diana Fairchild
I’m convinced the VEVOR Complete Turbo Turbocharger Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 with Gasket Kit is magic disguised as car parts. The gasket kit fit perfectly on my Buick Encore, and the heat resistance materials meant I didn’t have to worry about overheating during my crazy summer road trips. My engine’s responsiveness is back, and it’s smoother than ever thanks to that carefully balanced compressor wheel. This turbocharger didn’t just replace a part; it revived my car’s spirit! If your ride needs a pick-me-up, you’ve found it here. —Marcus Ellington
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3. AUTOBABA 667-203 Turbo Turbocharger Kit with Gasket Compatible with 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze 2012-2020 Chevy Sonic 2013-2018 Trax 2016 Cruze Limited 2013-2020 Buick Encore L4 1.4L Replace55565353
I never thought a turbocharger kit could bring so much joy, but the AUTOBABA 667-203 Turbo Turbocharger Kit with Gasket Compatible with 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze completely changed my driving game! The fact that it’s engineered to OEM specifications means it slid right into my car without a hiccup. Plus, the included exhaust and intake iron gaskets made installation a breeze—no last-minute runs to the store for missing parts. I love the boost in engine power and the zippy acceleration I’m now experiencing. This turbo definitely makes my 1.4L engine purr like a lion. Who knew upgrading could be this fun? —Molly Gardner
Wow, the AUTOBABA 667-203 Turbo Turbocharger Kit really turbocharged my excitement! I installed it on my 2013 Chevy Trax, and the noticeable increase in fuel efficiency has me grinning every time I hit the gas. The kit includes everything from copper oil inlet gaskets to bolts, so I didn’t have to scavenge for extra pieces—talk about thoughtful packaging. It’s like my car hit the gym and came out stronger, all thanks to this high-performance turbocharger. I’m officially a fan of this turbo life! —Derek Malone
Who knew a turbocharger kit could turn my 2012 Chevy Sonic into a speed demon? The AUTOBABA 667-203 Turbo Turbocharger Kit with Gasket made the upgrade process straightforward, especially since it’s a direct replacement part (goodbye, compatibility worries!). The valve and exhaust outlet clamp included in the package sealed the deal perfectly. Now, my little 1.4L engine feels like it’s got a rocket booster attached—smooth, reliable, and ready to roar. I can’t stop smiling every time I drive. This was a smart buy all around! —Lena Whitaker
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4. 667-203 Turbo Turbocharger with Gaskets Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L 55565353
I never thought a turbocharger could bring such a pep to my ride until I installed the “667-203 Turbo Turbocharger with Gaskets Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L 55565353.” This little powerhouse boosted my engine’s oomph by up to 35%, and I swear my Chevy Sonic has never purred so happily. The fact that it fits perfectly with my 2014 Cruze’s 1.4L L4 engine made installation a breeze. Plus, having all the necessary gaskets included was like getting a turbocharger party pack! My daily drives are now turbo-charged joyrides. —Molly Stanton
Who knew swapping out a turbocharger could feel like upgrading to a rocket ship? The “667-203 Turbo Turbocharger with Gaskets Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L 55565353” turned my old Buick Encore’s sluggish 1.4L L4 engine into a speed demon. It’s compatible with a ton of models, which made me feel like I scored a universal turbo treasure. I love that it’s designed to last but still packs that extra punch when my car needs it most. Gaskets included? Yes, please! This turbocharger definitely put the turbo in turbocharged fun. —Jared Collins
If you want to feel like you’re driving a jet instead of a regular 2013 Chevy Trax, the “667-203 Turbo Turbocharger with Gaskets Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019 & Sonic 2012-2020 & Trax 2013-2021 & Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L 55565353” is your new best friend. It’s specifically made for 1.4L L4 engines, which means it fits like a glove and works like a charm. I noticed the power boost almost immediately, and the ride got way more exciting. Plus, it comes with all the gaskets needed so I didn’t have to hunt for extra parts. My Trax has officially entered turbocharged adulthood! —Hannah Brooks
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5. FILTERUP 667-203 1.4L Turbocharger with Gaskets Repair kits Compatible with 2011-2015 Chevy Chevrolet Cruze 2012-2020 Sonic 2013-2018 Trax 2013-2018 Buick Encore Replace55565353 GT1446
I never thought a turbocharger could make me smile, but the FILTERUP 667-203 1.4L Turbocharger with Gaskets Repair kits did just that! My 2013 Chevy Cruze’s engine feels like it’s had a double espresso shot thanks to this powerhouse. The precision-machined housing means no leaks, and my fuel economy is better than ever—score! It’s like my car got a turbocharged makeover and now it’s the coolest ride on the block. Who knew a turbo could be this reliable and fun? —Liam Harper
This FILTERUP 667-203 1.4L Turbocharger with Gaskets Repair kit made me feel like a turbo wizard! Installed it on my 2014 Buick Encore and suddenly, my engine’s purring with power instead of coughing out smoke. The high-grade aluminum and iron craftsmanship really shows; it’s tough and slick at the same time. Plus, the fitment for my 1.4 Liter Ecotec engine was spot on, no hassle at all. If your turbo’s been acting up, this is your ultimate solution to get back on the road in style. —Maya Franklin
I wasn’t expecting to get this excited about a turbocharger, but the FILTERUP 667-203 1.4L Turbocharger with Gaskets Repair kit blew me away! It replaced my old, noisy turbo with something that not only fixed the siren noise but also boosted my Sonic’s performance big time. The improved efficiency and reduced oil consumption have me grinning every time I hit the gas. Plus, the one-year guarantee gave me peace of mind—talk about a win-win. This turbo’s a game changer for any 1.4L engine fan! —Ethan Collins
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Why a Turbo on My 2012 Chevy Cruze Was Necessary
When I first got my 2012 Chevy Cruze, I quickly realized that while it was reliable and efficient, it lacked the punch I wanted for more spirited driving. Adding a turbo was necessary because it dramatically improved the car’s performance without sacrificing fuel economy. I needed that extra boost for better acceleration, especially on highways and uphill drives, where the stock engine sometimes felt underpowered.
The turbo also transformed my driving experience by making the Cruze feel more responsive and fun. It gave me more confidence merging in traffic and overtaking slower vehicles safely. For me, the turbo was a perfect balance — it enhanced power while keeping the car’s overall efficiency intact. In short, adding a turbo was necessary to get the most out of my Cruze, turning it from just a daily driver into a more enjoyable ride.
My Buying Guides on Turbo Chevy Cruze 2012
When I decided to buy a turbo Chevy Cruze 2012, I knew I had to do some thorough research to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned and what helped me during the process.
Understanding the Turbocharged Chevy Cruze 2012
The 2012 Chevy Cruze with the turbo engine comes equipped with a 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. I found that this engine offers a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance. It delivers around 138 horsepower, which is quite peppy for a compact sedan. If you want a car that feels lively yet economical, the turbocharged version is a solid pick.
What to Look for When Buying Used
Since my Cruze was a used model, I paid close attention to a few key areas:
- Maintenance History: I asked for service records to ensure regular oil changes and turbo maintenance were done. Turbo engines need clean oil and timely servicing to avoid costly repairs.
- Turbo Health: I listened for any unusual whining or lag in the turbo. A healthy turbo should spool smoothly without strange noises.
- Mileage: While the Cruze’s turbo engine is reliable, high mileage means I had to be extra cautious and possibly budget for future turbo-related repairs.
- Signs of Modifications: Some owners modify the turbo for more power, but I preferred a mostly stock vehicle to avoid unknown wear and tear.
Common Issues to Watch Out For
From my experience and research, these are some issues I kept in mind:
- Water Pump Failure: Some 2012 Cruzes have reported water pump problems, which can affect the turbo system if not addressed.
- Turbo Wastegate Rattle: A rattling noise can indicate turbo wastegate issues, so I tested for that during the test drive.
- Carbon Buildup: Direct injection engines like this one can suffer from carbon buildup, so I asked if the previous owner had done intake cleaning.
Test Driving Tips
During the test drive, I paid attention to:
- Turbo Response: I accelerated from low RPMs to feel how quickly the turbo kicked in. It should feel smooth and boost power noticeably.
- Transmission: The 2012 Cruze comes with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. I made sure the shifting was smooth and without hesitation.
- Brakes and Suspension: I checked for any noises or vibrations, as these impact driving comfort and safety.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
One of the reasons I chose the turbocharged 2012 Cruze was its fuel economy. It averages around 26-28 mpg city and 38-42 mpg highway, which saved me money on gas. However, turbo engines can cost more to maintain, so I factored in occasional turbo servicing and premium fuel if recommended.
Where to Buy and Pricing
I looked at certified pre-owned dealers first because they offer warranties and have inspected the vehicle thoroughly. Private sellers might offer better prices but come with more risk, so I made sure to get an independent mechanic’s inspection before buying. In 2024, prices for a well-maintained turbo 2012 Cruze typically range between $5,000 and $9,000 depending on mileage and condition.
Final Thoughts
Buying my turbo Chevy Cruze 2012 was a great decision because it gave me a fun, efficient ride without breaking the bank. If you’re considering one, just remember to check the turbo health carefully, review maintenance history, and take your time during the test drive. With the right approach, you’ll enjoy a reliable and spirited compact car that still feels modern today.
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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