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GM L3B engine
GM L3B engine
GM L3B engine
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General Motors L3B engine
Overview
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
Production2018–present
Layout
ConfigurationInline-4
Displacement2.7 L; 166.4 cu in (2,727 cc)
Cylinder bore92.25 mm (3.63 in)
Piston stroke102 mm (4.02 in)
Cylinder block material380 T5 Cast Aluminum
Cylinder head material356 T5 Cast Aluminum
ValvetrainDOHC 4 valves/cyl with VVT and VVL
Compression ratio10.0:1
RPM range
Max. engine speed6100 RPM
Combustion
TurbochargerSingle BorgWarner Dual-Volute w/ electrically actuated wastegate
Fuel systemGasoline direct injection
Fuel typeGasoline
Oil systemWet sump
Cooling systemWater cooled
Output
Power output237–325 hp (177–242 kW)
Torque output259–430 lb⋅ft (351–583 N⋅m)
Emissions
Emissions target standardTier III, Bin 50
Emissions control systemsThree-way catalytic converter, wide-band heated oxygen sensor

The GM L3B engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine designed by General Motors. It is an undersquare aluminum DOHC inline-four displacing 2.7 liters (166 cid) and tuned for strong low-end torque.

In addition to GM's active fuel management, start-stop system, and variable valve timing, which are already featured on GM's other full-size pickup truck engines, this engine also features GM's Intake Valve Lift Control which has 3 different intake cam profiles that are electromagnetically actuated to provide improved fuel economy and performance at a wider range of operating conditions.[1]

The BorgWarner developed turbo can produce up to 27 psi (1.9 bar) of boost thanks in part to its unique dual volute turbine housing and an electrically actuated wastegate. Instead of two side-by-side exhaust passages like on a regular twin-scroll turbocharger, in this design the two exhaust passages are concentric and allow for better use of the exhaust pulse energy.[1]

History

[edit]

The L3B was first used in the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, with an output of 310 hp (231 kW) at 5600 RPM and 348 lb⋅ft (472 N⋅m) at 1500 RPM. With the unveiling of the 2022 model year Silverado, GM announced a significant revision that stiffened and strengthened the engine allowing for a GM-estimated increased maximum torque rating of 430 lb⋅ft (583 N⋅m) while also improving noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).[1] Parts are cast at Bedford Casting Operations in Indiana.[2] Assembly is at Spring Hill Manufacturing, Tennessee, USA.[3] The L3B is the successor to the 3.6L V6 LGX, 3.6L V6 LGZ, and 4.3L V6 LV3 engines.[3]


Specifications

[edit]

The engine is the first GM truck engine to feature an active thermal management system. This system consists of an electrically driven water pump and a 3-way rotary valve which allows the engine to maintain proper operating temperatures and quicker warm-ups. Also, a continuously variable oil pump helps to lower parasitic losses and provide proper lubrication and cooling to the engine, especially under high-load conditions.[1] The Active Fuel Management system can shut down the middle two cylinders under low-power conditions.[2]

Cylinder liners are spun nodular iron.[2]

The low-output work truck variant runs 10 psi of boost, the 390 lb⋅ft variant runs 20 psi, and the 430 lb⋅ft variant runs 27 psi.[2]

Applications

[edit]
Year(s) Model Power Torque Notes
2019–2021 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 231 kW (310 hp) @ 5600 RPM 348 lb⋅ft (472 N⋅m) @ 1500 RPM
2022–present 231 kW (310 hp) @ 5600 RPM 430 lb⋅ft (583 N⋅m) @ 3000 RPM TurboMax name
2020–present Cadillac CT4 231 kW (310 hp) @ 5500 RPM 350 lb⋅ft (475 N⋅m) @ 1500 RPM
V: 242 kW (325 hp) @ 500 RPM 380 lb⋅ft (515 N⋅m) @ 2000 RPM
2023–2024 Chevrolet Colorado 177 kW (237 hp) @ 5600 RPM 259 lb⋅ft (351 N⋅m) @ 3000 RPM detuned with different components, RPO code L2R
2023–present 231 kW (310 hp) @ 5600 RPM 390 lb⋅ft (529 N⋅m) @ 2000 RPM
2023–present Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon 231 kW (310 hp) @ 5600 RPM 430 lb⋅ft (583 N⋅m) @ 3000 RPM
2024–present Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon 223 kW (300 hp) @ 5500 RPM 369 lb⋅ft (500 N⋅m) @ 2000 RPM TurboMax name, Mainland China market only

2.5L LK0

[edit]
Year(s) Model Power Torque Dyno Chart
2024–present Chevrolet Traverse 328 hp (245 kW) @ 5500 rpm 326 lb⋅ft (442 N⋅m) @ 3500 rpm[4]
GMC Acadia
2025-present Buick Enclave

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

GM L3B engine

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The GM L3B engine is a turbocharged 2.7-liter (2,727 cc) inline-four gasoline engine produced by , featuring an aluminum block and head with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), a 10.0:1 , and a dual-volute designed for enhanced low-end torque and efficiency in light-duty trucks. Introduced for the 2019 model year, it debuted in the 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 as a modern replacement for the previous 4.3-liter V6, delivering SAE-certified outputs of 310 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and initially 348 lb-ft of torque at 1,500 RPM. In 2022, revised the L3B with structural reinforcements, including a stiffer block and enhanced internals, enabling a high-output branded as TurboMax starting in 2024, which boosts to 430 lb-ft while maintaining the same horsepower rating for improved and capabilities up to 9,500 pounds and 2,260 pounds, respectively. Key features include the TriPower system with dynamic fuel management for deactivation, active thermal management via an electric water pump, piston cooling jets, and a forged with priority oiling to enhance durability under heavy loads. The engine pairs with an 8-speed in most applications and achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg city/21 mpg highway in 2WD configurations. Beyond trucks, the L3B powers vehicles like the Cadillac CT4 sedan (tuned for 325 hp on premium fuel), Chevrolet Colorado midsize pickup, and GMC Canyon, demonstrating its versatility across GM's lineup while prioritizing diesel-like torque characteristics in a gasoline package. Its long-stroke design (92.25 mm bore × 102 mm stroke) contributes to strong low-RPM performance, though it can introduce higher vibrations compared to larger V8s, which GM mitigates through refined mounting and tuning. Overall, the L3B represents GM's shift toward efficient, high-torque four-cylinder engines in the full-size truck segment, offering competitive performance against V8 options with better fuel economy and lower emissions.

Design and Features

Engine Architecture

The GM L3B engine utilizes an inline-four cylinder configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, enabling optimized intake and exhaust flow for enhanced . This valvetrain arrangement supports the engine's focus on delivering robust performance in light-duty applications. The engine displaces 2.7 liters (2,727 cc), achieved through a bore of 92.25 mm and a of 102 mm. Its undersquare —characterized by a longer relative to the bore—promotes superior low-end by increasing piston dwell time near bottom dead center and providing greater leverage on the during the power . In 2022, the L3B received structural reinforcements, including a stiffer block and enhanced internals, enabling the high-output TurboMax variant introduced in 2024 to support increased while maintaining core architecture. Construction emphasizes lightweight yet durable materials, with the block from 380 T5 aluminum alloy and the from 356 T5 aluminum alloy, reducing overall weight while maintaining structural integrity under high loads. The static of 10.0:1 further supports efficient operation by maximizing in conjunction with . A key architectural feature is the integrated dual-volute , which employs separate exhaust passages for pairs to preserve and reduce lag. This unit is electronically actuated and capable of generating up to 22 psi (1.5 bar) of boost, seamlessly enhancing the engine's torque delivery across its operating range.

Advanced Technologies

The GM L3B engine incorporates several advanced technologies designed to enhance , reduce emissions, and improve overall drivability in light-duty truck applications. These systems work in concert to optimize , manage conditions, and adapt to varying load demands, marking a significant in GM's four-cylinder engine lineup. Central to the engine's delivery is its (GDI) system, which operates at high pressures up to 3,000 psi (20 MPa) to inject directly into the . This precise control allows for multiple injections per cycle, enabling better air- mixing, reduced spark knock through charge cooling, and improved power density while supporting a of 10.0:1. By facilitating gas scavenging to the , GDI contributes to quicker response and enhanced across operating conditions. The features dual independent continuously (VVT) on both intake and exhaust sides, which dynamically adjusts valve opening and closing to optimize and delivery over a broad RPM range, typically from 1,500 to 4,000 RPM. Complementing VVT is the variable valve lift (VVL) system, implemented via GM's innovative Sliding Cam Valve Lift System (), the first such application in a GM engine. The employs electro-hydraulic actuators to shift profiles among three modes: high-lift for maximum power at higher speeds, low-lift (with approximately 3 mm reduced lift and shortened duration) for mid-range efficiency, and an (AFM) mode that deactivates cylinders 2 and 3 under light loads like highway cruising. This cylinder deactivation improves fuel economy by up to 13% compared to prior V6 engines, seamlessly transitioning without driver notice. Further efficiency gains come from the integrated , which automatically shuts off the engine during idle periods in stop-and-go traffic and restarts it upon brake release, reducing fuel consumption and emissions in urban driving. This feature is driver-selectable and supported by a robust starter and battery setup for reliable operation. A standout innovation is the active thermal management system, also a GM first for truck engines, which uses an electronically controlled rotary valve and electric water pump to precisely direct flow. This allows for faster engine warm-up, targeted heating of the transmission or cabin, and minimized in cold conditions, thereby lowering emissions during startup and optimizing year-round. These technologies collectively enable the L3B to comply with stringent Tier III, Bin 50 federal emissions standards, incorporating a and wide-band oxygen sensors for effective exhaust aftertreatment while maintaining high performance.

Specifications

Physical Dimensions

The GM L3B engine features a displacement of 2.7 L (166 cu in; 2,727 cc). This inline-four configuration achieves its volume through a bore of 92.25 mm (3.63 in) and a stroke of 102 mm (4.02 in). The resulting undersquare bore-stroke ratio supports enhanced low-end torque delivery. The engine block is constructed from 380 T5 cast aluminum, reinforced with cast-in-place iron liners made from spiny lock centrifugal nodular to ensure durability under high loads. The utilizes 356 T5 cast aluminum , contributing to the overall yet robust . For , the L3B incorporates a dual-volute with an integrated design, which optimizes exhaust flow and heat recovery for efficient operation.

Performance Outputs

The GM L3B engine, a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four, provides versatile performance outputs optimized for applications, with horsepower ranging from 237 to 325 hp (177 to 242 kW) and from 259 to 430 lb⋅ft (351 to 583 N⋅m) across various tunings and calibrations. These figures reflect adaptations for different vehicle demands, from base models to high-performance variants, emphasizing low-end delivery for and acceleration. Introduced in 2019 for the 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, the engine's initial configuration delivered 310 hp (232 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 348 lb⋅ft (472 N⋅m) of at 1,500 rpm, surpassing the output of the preceding 4.3-liter V6 while offering improved efficiency. A revised high-output version for the 2022 model year retained the 310 hp (232 kW) at 5,600 rpm but boosted to 430 lb⋅ft (583 N⋅m) at 3,000 rpm through enhanced turbo mapping and internal hardware upgrades, resulting in a 24 percent increase for better mid-range responsiveness. In premium applications like the Cadillac CT4-V, the L3B achieves 325 hp (242 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 380 lb⋅ft (515 N⋅m) at 2,000 rpm when tuned for premium fuel, prioritizing higher-revving performance. Detuned variants, such as the L2R calibration in base 2023 models (discontinued for the 2025 model year), produce 237 hp (177 kW) and 259 lb⋅ft (351 N⋅m) to balance cost and efficiency in entry-level trucks. The engine's dual-volute generates up to 27 psi (1.9 bar) of boost in high-output setups, enabling strong from low rpm while maintaining drivability. is supported by features like with cylinder deactivation, contributing to EPA-rated fuel economy of up to 20 mpg combined in equipped trucks, such as 19 city/22 highway/20 combined mpg for certain two-wheel-drive configurations.

Development and Production

Historical Development

The development of the GM L3B engine was announced in May 2018, when revealed details of its new 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four for upcoming full-size trucks, assigning it the (RPO) code L3B. The engine made its production debut in the 2019 model year 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, where it initially delivered 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque. Engineered as a successor to the 4.3L LV3 V6 and 3.6L LGX/LGZ V6 engines, the L3B aimed to provide superior and in a smaller, lighter package suitable for light-duty duties. This design shift prioritized a compact inline-four configuration with an aluminum block for weight savings, enabling better overall vehicle performance without sacrificing capability. In the 2022 model year, the L3B received significant revisions, including an upgraded block casting with additional aluminum webbing and a retooled featuring widened crank arms for 30% greater stiffness, which improved (NVH) levels. These changes, combined with a revised tune, boosted maximum to 430 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm while maintaining the original 310 horsepower rating. In February 2024, issued a recall for certain 2023 model year vehicles equipped with the L3B engine, including the , Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500, due to a manufacturing defect in the engine block's main gallery causing cracks. This defect could lead to starvation and potential failure. GM is providing free replacements for the affected vehicles. The L3B represented ' inaugural high-output inline-four for light-duty trucks, becoming the most powerful four-cylinder ever offered in a U.S. light-duty pickup at its introduction. Its tuning emphasized strong low-end delivery to mimic the characteristics of larger V6 and V8 engines in and hauling scenarios.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process for the GM L3B engine begins with the casting of its aluminum engine block and at the Bedford Casting Operations facility in , where advanced aluminum die-casting techniques are employed to produce cylinder blocks and heads for various GM engines. This facility, operational since 1942, specializes in high-pressure die-casting of aluminum components, enabling precise tolerances and lightweight structures essential for the L3B's deep-skirt block design. The process incorporates cast-in-place spiny lock centrifugal nodular cast iron cylinder liners, which are spun during casting to enhance bonding with the surrounding aluminum and improve durability under high loads. Final assembly of the L3B engine occurs at the plant in , where components including the pistons, , and are integrated into the cast block and head. During this stage, the dual-volute is mounted directly to the integrated on the , optimizing exhaust flow, reducing packaging space, and enabling efficient heat recovery for quicker engine warmup. The aluminum high-pressure die-cast block contributes to the engine's overall weight reduction, supporting its performance in truck applications while maintaining structural integrity. As part of GM's global small family under the Cylinder Set Strategy, the L3B features a modular that facilitates production of variants, such as the lower-output L2R version, by sharing core components like the block and head castings across models. updates implemented in 2022, including reinforced block castings, are incorporated directly into the ongoing assembly process at Spring Hill to address durability enhancements without altering the core flow. Quality control throughout emphasizes precision and testing to ensure compliance with GM's standards for truck-duty reliability.

Applications

Light-Duty Truck Models

The GM L3B engine debuted as the base powerplant in the 2019 1500, delivering 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque to replace the previous 4.3-liter V6 while offering improved performance and efficiency. This turbocharged inline-four provided up to 7,200 pounds of maximum towing capacity in properly equipped configurations, enhancing the truck's utility for light-duty hauling tasks. Compared to the outgoing V6, the L3B achieved better fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg , 23 mpg , and 21 mpg combined, representing a 25% improvement in combined efficiency for 2WD models. The identical L3B tuning carried over to the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500, serving in the same base role with matching outputs of 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of across LT and SLE trims. For the 2022 model year, updated the L3B in both the Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 through revisions to the cylinder block, , and engine calibration, boosting to 430 pound-feet while retaining the 310-horsepower rating. This enhancement further solidified its position as a capable base , emphasizing low-end delivery suitable for applications like and payload management. In midsize trucks, the L3B appeared in the 2023 as an optional high-output engine, producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of in higher trims to support up to 7,700 pounds of . The 2023 GMC Canyon adopted the same L3B configuration with identical power figures, positioning it as a versatile choice for buyers seeking a balance of efficiency and truck-like capability over smaller base engines. Across these platforms, the L3B's turbocharged design enables strong low-rpm for demanding duties while maintaining competitive economy over legacy V6 options.

Passenger Car Models

The L3B engine powers the Cadillac CT4 compact sedan from the 2020 to 2025 model years. In standard Premium Luxury trims, it produces 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque. The performance-oriented CT4-V variant is tuned for 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel, paired with an 8-speed . This application highlights the engine's adaptability to luxury passenger vehicles, offering responsive acceleration and efficiency.

SUV and Crossover Models

The GM L3B engine finds application in full-size platforms, where it is tuned to deliver responsive performance suited to passenger-oriented driving dynamics and family transportation needs. In these vehicles, the engine emphasizes low-end availability for effortless during daily commutes and highway merging, while maintaining for long-distance travel with multiple occupants. Introduced for the 2025 model year in the Chinese market, the employs the L3B with outputs of 300 horsepower and 369 lb⋅ft of , paired to a 10-speed for seamless power delivery in urban and suburban environments. This configuration prioritizes refined operation, contributing to the Tahoe's role as a versatile family hauler capable of accommodating up to eight passengers without compromising ride comfort. The GMC , sharing the Tahoe's platform, utilizes an identical L3B tuning of 300 horsepower and 369 lb⋅ft of starting from the 2025 in , enabling smooth integration with the vehicle's premium interior and advanced driver-assistance features. Engineers focused on optimizing the engine's (NVH) characteristics to enhance cabin serenity, making it well-suited for extended family outings. 2022 NVH improvements to the L3B further benefit SUV ride quality by reducing audible turbo spool and vibration under load. Overall, these adaptations underscore the L3B's versatility in SUV applications, balancing power with efficiency for passenger-focused utility.

References

  1. https://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/gm-engines/l3b/
  2. https://www.motorreviewer.com/engine.php?engine_id=193
  3. https://carbuzz.com/gm-turbomax-engine/
  4. https://www.hagerty.com/media/maintenance-and-tech/gm-engineer-revised-l3b-turbo-four-is-a-true-truck-engine/
  5. https://www.gmenvolve.com/content/dam/gmenvolve/na/us/en/index/fleet/trucks/pdfs/2026MY-Chevrolet-Silverado-1500-TurboMax-Engine-One-Pager.pdf
  6. https://www.chevrolet.com/trucks/silverado/1500
  7. https://www.sae.org/articles/chevrolet-delivers-a-bombshell-first-ever-4-cylinder-fullsize-pickups-sae-ma-02868
  8. https://www.enginelabs.com/news/gms-dual-volute-turbo-2-7l-goes-from-workhorse-to-race-horse/
  9. https://techlink.mynetworkcontent.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/GM_TechLink_14_Mid-July_2019.pdf
  10. https://www.vehiclerevive.com/chevy-silverado/chevy-2-7-turbo-specs/
  11. https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2023_Chevrolet_Silverado_1500.shtml
  12. https://gmauthority.com/blog/2018/05/gms-new-2-7l-turbo-engine-assigned-rpo-code-l3b/
  13. https://www.autoevolution.com/news/general-motors-will-replace-l3b-27l-turbo-i4-pickup-truck-engines-with-cracked-blocks-229737.html
  14. https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a23911984/general-motors-new-four-cylinder-turbo-engine/
  15. https://investor.gm.com/news-releases/news-release-details/gm-invest-more-51-million-bedford-aluminum-casting-facility
  16. https://www.kbb.com/car-news/2019-chevrolet-silverado-2-7-liter-turbo-20-mpg-city-23-highway/
  17. https://gmauthority.com/blog/2020/12/comparing-the-2-7l-turbo-and-4-3l-v6-chevy-silverado-engines/
  18. https://www.autoevolution.com/news/2023-chevrolet-colorado-packs-27l-turbo-engine-with-three-output-variants-194708.html
  19. https://www.autoevolution.com/news/l2r-4-cylinder-turbo-engine-coming-to-the-2023-chevrolet-colorado-and-gmc-canyon-201347.html
  20. https://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/chevrolet/tahoe/
  21. https://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/gmc/yukon/
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