From the moment of its first appearance on our market to this day, the Chevrolet Cruze model has attracted the attention of the automotive community. The reason for this popularity is that this car combines a solid design and a reasonable price. But that is not all. The technical characteristics of the car, the most important of which is ground clearance, allow it to successfully conquer our specific roads. Thus, the designers were able to create an inexpensive, quite stylish and technologically advanced car in which you can comfortably drive around the city and beyond. Today we will take a closer look at the design, technical characteristics, ground clearance of the Chevrolet Cruze and its other features.
Ground clearance on sedan, hatchback and station wagon
Typically, automakers set different ground clearances for different body types. In the case of the Chevrolet Cruze, the manufacturer set the same ground clearance for all three body types: hatchback, sedan and station wagon. So, the ground clearance is 145-190 mm according to factory standards.
When installing tuning spare parts, the ground clearance will change. So, if you install engine crankcase protection, the figure will decrease by almost 15 mm, and will average 130 mm. And if the car is modified by body tuning, then the ground clearance may decrease by 120 mm. Therefore, motorists often adjust the ride height using special means.
The table shows different clearances depending on generation:
Ground clearance characteristics.
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze restyling 2012, sedan, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze restyling 2012, hatchback, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze 2011, hatchback, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze 2008, sedan, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze 2001, hatchback, 1st generation, HR51S, HR81S
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze restyling 2012, station wagon, 1st generation, J308
Ride height.
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze restyling 2012, sedan, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze restyling 2012, hatchback, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze 2011, hatchback, 1st generation, J305
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze 2008, sedan, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze restyling 2015, sedan, 1st generation, J300
Ground clearance Chevrolet Cruze 2008, sedan, 1st generation, J300
Methods for increasing ground clearance
Since the road surface in the CIS countries generally leaves much to be desired, with potholes and potholes, many Cruze owners try to increase the ground clearance in order to avoid damage to protective body elements, such as bumpers and door sills. There are several ways to do this. The most common are the installation of spacers or springs with shock absorbers. Let's consider both options.
Installing spacers for springs.
Spacers
Spacers are rubber-metal plates that are inserted between the body and the shock absorber to increase the vehicle's ride height. These modification parts can be purchased at automobile markets or car dealerships. Since the cost is much lower than shock absorbers and springs, most motorists prefer spacers.
Let's consider the sequence of work for installing spacers:
- We dismantle the shock absorber strut along with all components.
- We remove the metal cover that secures the spring.
- We install the spacer so that it is between two metal plates.
- We install the mounting bolts, which will then secure the stand to the glass.
- We install the rack on a standard seat.
Thus, you can increase the ground clearance on the Chevrolet Cruze by 15-20 mm.
Spacer to increase ground clearance.
Shock absorbers and springs
Another way to increase ground clearance on a Cruze is by installing higher shock absorbers and springs. To do this, you will need to find a set of non-standard chassis to increase ground clearance. Typically, motorists go to tuning stores or the car market to purchase this type of spare parts.
Ways to enlarge
If, however, there is no way to tolerate such ground clearance, you can consider several ways to increase ground clearance. Each of them, of course, will have its own disadvantages, since in any case we will interfere with the architecture and geometry of the suspension, the calculated parameters of aerodynamics and stability. Nevertheless, here they are.
Changing wheels
This is the safest and most sane method of increasing ground clearance.
Accordingly, if you replace the 15th disks with 17th ones, we get an increase in clearance of approximately 20 mm. At the same time, do not forget that the height of the tire should be such that the rubber does not reach the wheel arches when loading.
Replacing wheel rims is one of the safe and simple methods of increasing ground clearance.
The downside of replacing tires with higher and non-standard ones may be problems with the accuracy of the speedometer and odometer readings, and this can also lead to incorrect operation of ABS and ESP. The advantage is that you can gain 20 mm of clearance without changing the suspension geometry and without changing the forces on the chassis elements.
Replacing springs and struts
Another thing is how constant velocity joints will react to this, because they are designed for a certain average operating angle of torque transmission, and changing it can lead to accelerated wear of the CV joints. And the very fact of raising the center of gravity will lead to a change in the stability and roll of the body in corners. In any case, you shouldn’t get carried away and 20-35 mm is quite enough to lift our Cruze to a safe distance above the road.
Well, after all, the “awl” played its swarm! On Thursday I installed inserts on the rear wheels, everything is simple. Rubber spacers are 2.5 cm thick. It took about 1.5 hours. But the result was partial, so only forward and a step back! Today is Friday evening, the management of the office sent them home, and since I am the third in seniority, I began to rule the BALL. I drove the car into the territory and away we go. MY WEBSITE: serigor76.ucoz.ru/I removed the stand, everything is simple there.
I screwed the adapter into the shock absorber rod, which is approximately but not less than 2 cm long.
I prepared the spacers, they are about 3.5 cm. After installation on the side of the hood, you’ll be able to tell what the spacer is.
everything is in the best shape
Top view of installation order.
And now the driver’s side is installed, let’s look and admire.
We install everything mirrored on the passenger side. And here is the result.
from a general perspective
And now everything is in centimeters. Rear wheel
The front wheel is at the back where the mudguard is.”
And the front wheel “where the apron is”, “Bumper”.
And there are 3.5 spacers in the front and 2.5 cm spacers in the back. And for the winter I’ll put 215/65 p16 photo earlier. Now I’ve driven about 10-15 km. it doesn’t fall anywhere, it doesn’t tip anywhere, it’s worth driving steadily, it got a little rough, the “Black Mamba” is quite a wide car, so I think there won’t be any problems. In general, there are only positive emotions for now. This information is commercial. interest, so if anyone needs to ask. The plans are to raise the rear by another 1 cm, but there is an ambush with the shock absorber; its rod must also be increased, but these are still plans.
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What is the ground clearance of the Chevrolet Cruze?
The Chevrolet Cruze is a car that is a product of General Motors and was created by a team led by Tewan Kim. At that time, the model completely replaced the already losing popularity of the Chevrolet Lacetti.
The new car is based on the Delta-2 base, which was also used to create the Opel Astra.
Despite the long period of sales of the car (more than ten years), there are still disputes among car owners about the ground clearance of the Chevrolet Cruze.
Let's look at the main points below:
- How to correctly determine the vehicle's ground clearance?
- What are the features of the ground clearance of cars of different years of manufacture and body types?
- What methods of increasing the ground clearance of a Chevrolet Cruze exist, and can they be used?
It is worth noting that the production of Chevrolet Cruze cars started in St. Petersburg in 2009, and it was from this year that the model was sold in Russia. At the same time, Cruz is assembled in three versions - sedan, station wagon and hatchback.
Despite the apparent similarity of the base, there are still minor differences, namely in the size of the trunk, ground clearance and other aspects.
Timing drive mechanism
The timing drive is one of the most critical components in an internal combustion engine (ICE). It is with its help that the camshaft of the power unit is driven, the rotational motion of which is transmitted from the crankshaft. In modern car engines, a rubber belt or metal chain is used for this.
Belt drive
In naturally aspirated engines that power Chevrolet Cruze cars, the timing camshaft is driven by a rubber belt.
Among the advantages of belt transmission, experts note:
- ease of replacement;
- no additional lubrication;
- no noise;
A high-strength rubber belt is installed on the exposed crankshaft and camshaft gears. To more accurately synchronize their rotation, the inner surface of the belt has teeth, which ensure engagement with the gear teeth.
The main disadvantage of a belt drive is its short service life (compared to a chain), which is no more than 90 thousand kilometers. It is recommended to replace them every 50...60 thousand km. In addition, during the operation of the vehicle, it is necessary to constantly monitor the condition of the belt surfaces and, if cracks appear, replace it immediately. This will avoid more serious engine damage that can occur if the rubber belt unexpectedly breaks.
Chain drive
In the A14NET/NEL engine, the camshaft is driven using a steel chain.
The advantages of a chain drive include:
- long service life (more than 180,000 km);
- strength;
- increased reliability.
As for the disadvantages, the use of a chain drive leads to increased noise and the need to install a number of additional parts (tensioner, damper), with the help of which the chain is tensioned during operation and its vibrations are damped. In addition, the chain requires lubrication during operation.
Chain tension is a complex process and is ensured by special tension rollers. In this case, the tensioner works in tandem with a special spring and, in addition, uses engine oil pressure. A steel toothed chain drives the camshafts by contacting the teeth of the sprockets attached to them. The condition of the chain and its service life largely depend on the pressure of the engine oil in the lubrication system of the power unit. The use of high-quality consumables also has a significant impact on the operation of the timing chain drive.
Features of measuring ground clearance in a Chevrolet Cruze
Vehicle ground clearance is measured between the lowest point of the vehicle and the ground on which the wheels rest. At the same time, identifying a specific point in the Chevrolet Cruze is a difficult task, because almost all the parts are located in the same horizontal plane.
In reality, the lower part of the car is considered to be the metal engine protection, which is slightly lower than the other elements of the bottom. It is this part that car owners cling to when driving through uneven areas.
It is no secret that the manufacturer of the Chevrolet Cruze prescribes in its technical specifications an overestimated ground clearance measured without load.
If you put five people in the cabin, put in a spare tire and load the luggage compartment, the situation will change radically.
Affects ground clearance and fuel volume in the tank. Officially this parameter is 160 mm, but in reality it will be lower.
In addition, after installing the engine protection, the ground clearance is reduced to 14 cm (front), and between the road surface and the rear - 200-220 mm.
Therefore, when driving through uneven areas, you should be prepared for the bottom of the car to come into contact with various elements of the road surface.
Station wagon ground clearance (by year and modification)
In the 2012-2017 five-door Chevrolet Cruze with front-wheel drive, the ground clearance is 140 mm.
This parameter is relevant for the following modifications:
- MT LS (engine - 1.6 l, 124 hp), MT LT (1.6 l, 124 horsepower).
- AT LT (1.8 L, 141 HP), AT LTZ (1.8 L, 141 HP), and MT LS (1.8 L, 141 HP), and MT LT (1.8 l, 141 hp). The same category includes the MT LTZ (1.8 l, 141 hp).
Dimensions and trunk
The trunk volume of the first generation Chevrolet Cruze hatchback is 413 liters, and in the second generation it is already 700 liters. With the seats folded down, the maximum capacity is 1,336 litres. Compared to the first generation, such values cause a pleasant surprise among car enthusiasts. The spare wheel is located under the trunk floor.
The trunk of the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback allows you to put not only bags of groceries, but also large suitcases. This pleases those who like to travel by car. The car is also suitable for those who are doing repairs and want to save on delivery of materials - they can easily be put in the trunk.
Interesting fact! At the same time, the car itself has a length of 4.5 m and a width of 1.8 m. For modern cars, these are compact dimensions that provide greater maneuverability in city traffic.
Hatchback ground clearance (by year and modification)
The ground clearance of the hatchback is 14.5 cm. This parameter is typical for Chevrolet Cruze cars with 5 doors and front-wheel drive, produced between 2005 and 2012.
This indicator is typical for the following modifications:
- AT LS (1.6 l, 109 hp), MT LS (1.6 l, 109 hp). Here it is worth highlighting two more modifications: AT LT (1.6 l, 109 horsepower), MT LT (1.6 l, 109 hp).
- AT LT (1.8 liters, 141 hp), MT LS (1.8 liters, 141 hp), and MT LT (1.8 liters, 141 hp).
An exception is the AT LTZ model (1.4 l, 140 hp), which has a ground clearance of 140 mm.
Engine
Most Cruzes are equipped with F16d3 engines with a volume of 1.6 liters and a power of 109 hp, which have proven themselves in Lacetti and Aveo. This is a reliable unit with a range of 280-300 thousand km. During this time, Cruise owners do not experience any particular problems with the engine. The main problems may be with the timing belt - after 40-50 thousand mileage it is replaced with a new one.
When buying a used car, you should listen to the operation of the entire gas distribution system - incorrect valve adjustment, failure of the belt tension roller or tension spring lead to serious damage to the entire system and expensive repairs.
Typically, such violations are detected by ear and visual inspection: a running engine produces extraneous noise (knocking, valve clicks, hum in the generator area), fuel consumption increases. On cars produced in 2008-2012, frequent violations of timing adjustments were observed - this system does not allow “oil starvation”, low-quality oil, and with further use, gears, camshafts, and valves quickly wear out. The F16d4 and F18d4 engines, which began to be installed on the Cruise after 2013 (1.6 and 1.8 liters), are more advanced. 10 hp were added to their power, which corresponds to 124 hp. and 139 hp, fuel consumption was reduced by 5%, European environmental standards were included in the Ecotec series. Such units can be found on some Ford Focus and Volkswagen Polo.
2016-2017 Chevrolet Cruze modification: features
Chevrolet recently introduced the new second-generation Cruze. The new product has a very original appearance and many advantages compared to representatives of the first generation.
Manufacturers used a new platform that had previously been tested on Astra and Buick Verano.
The use of a new base made it possible to increase body rigidity by 27 percent and lighten the car by 110 kg.
The “face” of the Chevrolet Cruze has undergone a number of changes - more “predatory” head optics, a small radiator grille and a ribbed hood have appeared.
Among the “lateral” changes are blown wheel arches, more powerful wheel rims, and original design of the rear-view mirrors, made in an aerodynamic shape.
- Length, width and height are 4.666 m, 1.795 m and 1.458 m, respectively.
- Ground clearance - 14 cm.
- Wheelbase - 2.7 meters.
The changes also affected the interior, which became more ergonomic and comfortable for rear passengers (older models could not boast of this).
Only high-quality materials were used for finishing, the fit was perfect.
The package includes everything you need for comfortable driving - a 7-inch touch screen, heated steering wheel, rear view camera, climate control, ten airbags and much more.
Technologies and functionality
- The MyLink multimedia system with a 7-inch display allows you not only to enjoy your favorite songs, but also view videos and photos. Check out the quality sound of the tracks!
- The basis of the car is a power frame, which is designed to protect both the driver and his passengers in the event of a collision.
- The Isofix system is provided to secure baby car seats.
- In cars of higher trim levels, the active safety system is supplemented by EBD, which controls the braking forces on each of the wheels, TCS, which prevents the wheels from slipping, and ESC, which will prevent the car from leaving the specified trajectory.
From the experience of drivers - real ground clearance
As can be seen from the above, the ride height in the Chevrolet Cruze leaves much to be desired. Even in city conditions, low ground clearance can be felt in parking lots equipped with high curbs.
You can also encounter a problem if you drive over speed bumps at high speed.
Off-road the problem is even more pressing. When driving on bumpy roads, the car every now and then touches the engine protection or “skirt” with the road surface.
For a car, such contacts are not dangerous, but for the driver and passengers it is not very pleasant.
The main “weakness” of the Chevrolet Cruze is considered to be the “skirt”, which is located along the entire perimeter. It is she who touches uneven surfaces, as if warning the driver of potential danger.
There is no need to worry about contact between the road elements and the “skirt”, because even in the event of complete destruction, replacing the part will not be difficult.
To preserve the front of the Chevrolet Cruze, experts recommend installing parking sensors, which warns in time about the presence of an obstacle.
To increase the efficiency of the device, it is advisable to place the sensors as low as possible.
Sometimes it is better to hear a warning from the device’s speaker than the actual grinding of body elements on road elements.
Generalized clearance table.
Why "bully"?
With all this, when compared with its classmates, Cruz is not so squat, since there simply cannot be more than 160-180 mm of ground clearance on a standard passenger car, and for a medium-sized crossover the normal ground clearance is within 200-230 mm. A decent SUV on a frame and with solid axles may have 300-350 mm under the bottom, but these are completely different cars with completely different tasks and you shouldn’t envy them.
Due to the low stance of the Chevrolet Cruze, you need to be careful when parking.
On the other hand, we do not live in the States or in Germany, where the roads are as smooth as a mirror, and the city infrastructure in life will not be a problem in the form of a 300 mm curb in the parking lot or a hole in the middle of the road, a rut after a ZIL or an incredibly high speed bump . Therefore, for many, immediately after purchasing a car, the question arises of how to increase ground clearance with little expense , without buying an SUV, in order to maintain the safety and integrity of the body, suspension elements and bumpers. There are several relatively safe ways to increase ground clearance. More about them below.
Is it possible to raise the ground clearance on a Chevrolet Cruze?
Problems with low ground clearance force car owners to look for new solutions to this problem.
The first thing that suggests itself is to remove the “skirt” and engine protection. In this case, the Chevrolet Cruze's ground clearance increases by 2-3 centimeters, but the car's body and engine are exposed to impact.
If these items are damaged, repair costs will be more severe. It is advisable to eliminate such a risk.
There are other ways:
- Installation of spacers - special liners that allow you to increase ground clearance by 20-40 mm. The materials used for manufacturing are rubber, aluminum, polyurethane and plastic. The products themselves are attached between the coils of the shock absorbers and prevent the latter from compressing under the weight of the car. Such an alteration has a number of consequences - a decrease in the comfort of the car, which is immediately noticeable to the driver and passengers, as well as a deterioration in handling during sudden maneuvers.
- Installing larger disks. The same risk occurs here as in the previous case - problems arise with controllability during turns at high speed.
