The 2.5-liter General Motors LCV engine was produced at the American plant from 2012 to 2022 and was installed on such popular models as the Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Malibu and Buick Envision. This power unit has received a huge number of improvements to reduce noise and vibration.
Ecotec family:
1st gen – LSJ, L61;
2nd gen – LDK, LHU, LNF, LAF, LEA, LE5, LE9;
3rd gen – LSY, LTG, LCV, LKW.
Specifications
| Production years | 2012-2022 |
| Displacement, cc | 2457 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 195 – 205 |
| Torque output, Nm | 250 – 260 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 88 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 100.8 |
| Compression ratio | 11.3 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | Dual VVT |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-20 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 6 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Cadillac ATS 2014) — city — highway — combined |
10.7 7.1 9.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 150 |
The engine was installed on:
- Buick Envision 1 (D2XX) in 2017 – 2020;
- Buick GL8 2 (SGM258) in 2016 – 2017;
- Cadillac ATS I (A1SL) in 2012 – 2016;
- Chevrolet Blazer 3 (C1XX) in 2018 – 2021;
- Chevrolet Colorado 2 (GMT31XX) in 2014 – 2022;
- Chevrolet Malibu 8 (V300) in 2012 – 2016;
- GMC Acadia 2 (C1XX) in 2016 – 2021;
- GMC Canyon 2 (GMT31XX) in 2014 – 2022.
Disadvantages of the GM LCV engine
- This engine is considered very reliable, it is mostly praised on specialized forums.
- All complaints are related to uneven idling or gurgling sounds at start.
- Like all direct injection units, intake valves are overgrown with soot.
- Also periodically there are strong lubricant leaks through the oil pressure sensor.
Frequently asked questions about the GM LCV
How much power does the GM LCV make?
The GM LCV develops 195 - 205 hp and 250 - 260 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the GM LCV take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-20.
Does the GM LCV have a timing belt or chain?
The GM LCV uses a timing chain.
Is the GM LCV turbocharged?
No, the GM LCV is naturally aspirated.
Does the GM LCV need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the GM LCV has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the GM LCV last?
The typical lifespan of the GM LCV is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the GM LCV?
Cadillac ATS 2014: city 10.7, highway 7.1, combined 9.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the GM LCV installed on?
Buick Envision 1 (D2XX) in 2017 - 2020; Buick GL8 2 (SGM258) in 2016 - 2017; Cadillac ATS I (A1SL) in 2012 - 2016; Chevrolet Blazer 3 (C1XX) in 2018 - 2021; Chevrolet Colorado 2 (GMT31XX) in 2014 - 2022; Chevrolet Malibu 8 (V300) in 2012 - 2016 and 2 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the GM LCV?
This engine is considered very reliable, it is mostly praised on specialized forums. All complaints are related to uneven idling or gurgling sounds at start. All known problems.





