The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine GM L2B has been produced in China since 2013 for the Chevrolet Sail, Cavalier, Monza, Optra and Spin, the Buick Excelle and many Baojun and Wuling models. It is a simple cast-iron engine with port injection and a timing chain, producing 102-114 hp.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2013 |
| Displacement, cc | 1485 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 102 – 114 |
| Torque output, Nm | 141 – 147 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 74.7 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 84.7 |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | DVVT |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.8 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 5 / 6 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Chevrolet Monza 2022) — city — highway — combined |
7.8 4.9 5.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 132 |
The engine was installed on:
- Baojun 310 I (CN180) in 2016 – 2021;
- Baojun 360 I (CN185) in 2018 – 2021;
- Baojun 510 I (CN180S) since 2017;
- Baojun 630 I (GP50) in 2014 – 2023;
- Baojun 730 I (CN200) in 2014 – 2017, 730 II (CN210) since 2017;
- Buick Excelle 1 (J200) in 2013 – 2016;
- Buick Excelle GX 1 (K221) in 2015 – 2023;
- Chevrolet Cavalier 4 (K216) in 2016 – 2021;
- Chevrolet Groove 1 (CN1) since 2020;
- Chevrolet Monza 1 (K218) since 2019;
- Chevrolet Optra 2 (CG2) in 2014 – 2023;
- Chevrolet Sail 3 (CS3) in 2014 – 2023;
- Chevrolet Spin 1 (PM5) since 2013;
- Wuling Hongguang S I (CN112) since 2013, Hongguang S II (CN115) since 2018;
- Wuling Hongguang S1 I (CN113) since 2015;
- Wuling Hongguang S3 I (CN120) since 2017.
Disadvantages of the GM L2B engine
- A simple and reliable engine: the cast-iron block easily lasts 300,000 km or more;
- The timing chain is durable and needs attention only after 200,000 km;
- There are no hydraulic lifters, so the valves need adjusting about every 100,000 km;
- Outside China, service experience and spare parts are scarce.
Frequently asked questions about the GM L2B
How much power does the GM L2B make?
The GM L2B develops 102 - 114 hp and 141 - 147 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the GM L2B take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.8 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the GM L2B have a timing belt or chain?
The GM L2B uses a timing chain.
Is the GM L2B turbocharged?
No, the GM L2B is naturally aspirated.
Does the GM L2B need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the GM L2B last?
The typical lifespan of the GM L2B is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the GM L2B?
Chevrolet Monza 2022: city 7.8, highway 4.9, combined 5.9 L/100 km.
What cars was the GM L2B installed on?
Baojun 310 I (CN180) in 2016 - 2021; Baojun 360 I (CN185) in 2018 - 2021; Baojun 510 I (CN180S) since 2017; Baojun 630 I (GP50) in 2014 - 2023; Baojun 730 I (CN200) in 2014 - 2017, 730 II (CN210) since 2017; Buick Excelle 1 (J200) in 2013 - 2016 and 10 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the GM L2B?
A simple and reliable engine: the cast-iron block easily lasts 300,000 km or more. The timing chain is durable and needs attention only after 200,000 km. All known problems.
