What is Torque and Why Does it Matter?

Horsepower and torque are two words that get thrown around a lot by gear heads. While they may seem like two different factors, they’re very closely related. In fact, horsepower is very reliant on an engine’s torque output, though high-torque doesn’t necessarily mean lots of horsepower, particularly on electrically powered models.

Torque is the turning power of an engine, most typically measured in pound-feet. In a car, torque plays a big role in how well a vehicle can accelerate, as well as handle in more adverse conditions. A vehicle with a higher torque rating typically will perform better in heavy mud or snow.

Because electric and hybrid vehicles have drivetrains with electric motors, they typically have higher torque ratings. Compared to a gasoline powered engine, an electric motor can run at full torque potential at 1 rpm, giving you great acceleration off the bat. The dual electric-gasoline powered 2013 Chevy Volt, for example, has an impressive torque rating of 273 lb-ft.

A New Cruze Diesel Can Match a Camaro in Torque Power

Diesel fuel naturally contains more potential power than gasoline, making it the preferred fuel for bigger machines like trucks and trains. In an age where fuel efficiency is the holy grail of vehicle engineering, though, automakers saw a chance to make diesel fuel a more popular fuel source. More power per unit of fuel meant better fuel economy, while still maintaining strength.

The 2014 Chevy Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel has a base power rating of 264 lb-ft of torque, using only a 2.0L turbo-diesel engine. With the push of the “overboost” button, power increases to 280 lb-ft, which is more torque power than on the 3.6L V6 Camaro model. The “clean” name derives from the fact that the diesel-run Cruze emits 90% less nitrous-oxide compounds than previous generation models.

Best of all, the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel is expected to get an EPA estimated 46 mpg on the highway, the best of any non-hybrid vehicle.

Watch for the New Cruze at Cox Chevy

Expect the 2014 Chevy Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel to arrive at Cox Chevy later this summer. We’re located on Cortez Road West, in Bradenton, just a quarter of a mile to the west of the Sweetbay Supermarket. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact Cox Chevy.