Best engine swap for a 2012 Chevy Cruze?

Posted by Helixian14@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 6 comments

I know I know, I've heard the "too expensive/exceeds value of the car" argument already but new cars are expensive and I quite like my Cruze (first car).

I want an engine that has a good amount of power, preferably on the responsive/high torque side but is great on gas for adventures. Ideas?

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Pimp_Daddy_Patty@reddit

I've seen a cavalier with a fwd 5.3 "LS" swap. The cruze might have similar fitment.

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K series would be my first thought. Super reliable, the 2.4L version has good torque, especially the TSX version with ivtec, and it is easily the most moddable engine out there. Bonus points for being a transverse I4, so fitment it s more realistic

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Kootsiak@reddit

I hate to be pedantic, but the most easily moddable engine is the Chevy LS small block and it's not even close. The LS have more aftermarket camshaft options alone than most engines have aftermarket parts period.

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MisterRay24@reddit

Throw a diesel engine in.

I'm kidding, just get a diesel cruze...

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thymewaster25@reddit

Depends on how extreme you want to get, which depends on how many months and how many tens of thousands of dollars you have to throw at the project.

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a_racingcarkid@reddit

Personally, I would love to put something like a VQ in a car like that, but it wouldn’t be the best on gas I think.

Your best bet is likely going to be a small turbo (or na depending on how much power you want) i4 because it delivers decent power and isn’t too heavy. I’d recommend something around 2L for your best performance.

Some specifics would be something from a Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry or Ford Fiesta to name a few cars you may want to engines from.