General Motors is considering using the turbocharged 2.7L L3B inline four-cylinder gasoline engine for vehicles beyond those it’s currently found in, GM Authority has learned from sources familiar with the matter.
Current Uses
Currently, the L3B is found in the new Chevy Colorado and Chevy Silverado 1500, GMC Canyon and GMC Sierra 1500, plus the Cadillac CT4-V.
Beyond these uses, where else could The General use its “torque monster” – as it’s sometimes referred to within GM?
GM’s turbo 2.7L L3B I4 gasoline engine
Potential Uses
The most obvious use of the L3B would be under the hoods of GM’s next-generation large crossovers – the future Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave. All of these will ride on the GM C1-2 platform, and are currently powered by the naturally-breathing 3.6L V6 LFY engine, rated at 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse prototype
By comparison, the highest output version of the L3B currently makes 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, thus earning the torque monster moniker. While the horsepower rating is the same, the torque rating is an impressive 164 pound-feet higher than the atmospheric V6. That said, it’s likely that the L3B might lose some of its might as it’s incorporated into a transverse layout, as opposed to the longitudinal configuration that it’s been found in until this point.
| Turbo 2.7L I4 L3B High-Output | 3.6L V6 LFY | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): | 310 / 231 @ 5600 | 310 / 232 @ 6800 |
| Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): | 430 / 583 @ 3000 | 266 / 361 @ 2800 |
It’s worth noting GM Authority has already hinted at the likelihood of the 2.7L L3B ending up in the next-gen Acadia in May 2022.
2024 GMC Acadia prototype
The possibilities for more widespread use of the L3B engine amongst GM’s vehicles don’t end with crossovers.
The 2.7L L3B presents a strong argument for replacing the 5.3L V8 L84 in full-size SUVs. In High-Output configuration, the 2.7L L3B boasts almost 50 pound-feet of torque more than the L84, while potentially delivering lower fuel consumption and emissions ratings, albeit with 45 less ponies, as compared to the smaller version of the naturally aspirated Small Block V8.
| Turbo 2.7L I4 L3B High-Output | 5.3L V8 L84 | 6.2L V8 L87 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): | 310 / 231 @ 5600 | 355 / 265 @ 5600 | 420 / 313 @ 5600 |
| Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): | 430 / 583 @ 3000 | 383 / 519 @ 4100 | 460 / 623 @ 4100 |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 10-speed auto | 10-speed auto |
The General has already set the precedent for using the turbocharged four-banger in full-size pickup trucks, so the next logical step may be to bring the torquey four-pot to its full-size SUVs – the Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Suburban, GMC Yukon and GMC Yukon XL.
Current-gen Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban
Notably, while the Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV may be considered candidates for the 2.7L L3B, the Cadillac full-sizers do not offer the 5.3L V8 L84, making it unnecessary to introduce the L3B in these models.
Which models would you like gain the L3B? Sound off in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to GM Authority for more L3B engine news, GM business news, and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Comments
How is it a torque monster???? Monster would imply it’s insane. It pales torque wise to, well, both duramaxs, the 6.2, 6.6, the 5.5 DOHC. It’s mid pack torque wise in GM’s portfolio. Are we just trying to make it feel special? FYI, I personally want the next gen 5.3 mounted transversely in the next gen traverse.
+50 torque compared to the 5.3
Not in the Colorado/CT4. My point exactly. There is a high output version of the 2.7, but it’s not a monster. If the 2.7 is a monster, does that make the 5.3 Godzilla? Remember the 5.3 makes 380/410 on E85, which blows away the CT4 and Colorado versions of this motor. My whole point is this motor is many things, and probably is a good choice for the next gen traverse, but it’s not a monster.
Also, for the next gen traverse, it’s more likely to use the 325/380 version as the transverse 9 speed isn’t cut out for 430ftlbs of torque, and I’m the shorter length of the traverse supports better exhaust breathing.
It’s called you don’t do it transverse. The Grand Cherokee-L is RWD longitudinal & unibody. Design the chassis appropriately.
And increase weight and costs? That’s the benefit of a transverse platform. If it’s RWD, why not just go the extra mile and get a Tahoe?
And the 5.3 is almost twice the displacement as the 2.7, but yeah, 50 ft lbs less torque.
It’s also a almost a decade older yet makes 15% more power and uses less fuel. The most incredible thing I see in the 2.7 in all honesty is it’s price. It’s listed as a 1500$ discount over the 5.3, which already as an old school pushrod is cheaper than DOHC V6’s. The 5.3 probably internally costs less to make for GM than the 3.6. Moving the traverse from the 3.6 to the 2.7 will cust weight and costs, and if they crease a “base” trim with the 2LR engine for even less, they can possibly cut MSRP despite more capable engines.
Put in the new equinox and maybe I’ll buy another while keeping the 9 spd. Hell u can even de tune it a little!
I keep pleading on these forums that they absolutely HAVE to consider putting at LEAST the L3B in the 3-row crossovers. Otherwise they will not be competitive. The Toyota Grand Highlander of all things is going to be rocking up to 362 HP and 400 lb-ft. In a hybrid. With ~34 MPG. The General should be embarrassed rolling out the old NA V6 right now.
As for the power, they get 325 HP / 380 lb-ft out of the CT4-V. They should have NO PROBLEM hitting the same 310 HP / 430 lb-ft in the Traverse/Acadia/Enclave/XT6 as in the Colorado/Canyon with the bigger engine bay and larger radiator space compared to the CT4-V.
Figure your $#!* out, GM.
In Bali at the highlander hybrid. Expensive unit that will struggle to meet its EPA ratings, as hybrids aren’t penalized like strait gas units are on EPA loops, won’t be quick and punchy as every hybrid tested doesn’t meet up to its performance expectations due to the extra weight of the hybrid. The highlander hybrid at best will match the current traverse, and the next gen will put the highlander back in the corner.
GMC Terrain Denali
The 2.7 would be a great fit for the Suburban/Yukon. Let’s hope we see it in the Silverado ZR2 as well.
No, it would be outside it’s comfort zone in such vehicles. With the increased weight and bigger tires it would lay into the turbo while cruising and only return mid teens for gas mileage and would wheeze out while trying to pass.
For fans of the old big blocks, the term torque monster also refers to an engine that lacks power. The 2.7 has a very peaky torque curve. What’s nice about the V8’s is they have a very flat torque curve.
“The 2.7 has a very peaky torque curve”
There’s nothing peaky about the torque from modern turbo motors.
Obviously, you have never driven a 2.7 or owned one. My Silverado gets 23mpg with the 2.7 on 20″ wheels that come stock. It’s got torque for days to pull anything that most people would pull at 9200lbs. I pull a trailer and a 4 seater side by side and all my gear and it pulls it like there is nothing back there. The death of the V8 is coming whether anyone wants to realize it or not. The 5.3 eats lifters for breakfast lunch and dinner.
What is the fuel / octane requirement and what does the manufacturer recommend. Can it run on regular 87 gas and still get the 310 HP / 430 LB-FT torque or does it need 91 premium? Please let me know since I would like to buy one…..Thanks LT
I have a new 2023 2.7. The manual recommends 87 octane fuel. I live in higher elevations and can do 85 octane no problem. It also is only 6 quarts oil.
I want this engine on a mid-size Buick Envision AWD or an Encore GX. Call it the Encore AWD GTO.
How about the Cadillac GT4 concept that’s planned only for China? Build that vehicle (with AWD) and market it here at home. It could possibly be an instant best-seller …
Remember the Typhoon and Cyclone?
This pos will be worn out by 75000 miles and either you will need to buy another GM under designed vehicle or something from another manufacturer
V8s Rule. Turbos Suck.
I have the L3B currently, While the power is plentiful for an engine this size, I cannot get past all of the horrible sounds. It is a buzzy power plant with non-stop turbo whistle. It is annoying. I will be going back to a small block next time. Power is fine, it is the poor driving experience for me.
Torque monster??? – 500ci Cadillac was a torque monster. Millennials have no concept…..
I’ve got one swapped into a 1995 K1500. It’s really a shame they never offered it for a factory truck application.
I think it is an impressively powerful and well built engine. I have no qualms with that. But as Jon said, it is very coarse and noisy. If that doesn’t bother you, it does me, then it’s a great choice. it needs some refinement and improved sound deadening.
I also forgot to mention that when at cruising speed or under light load, It shuts down 2 cyl. When that happens there is a vibration/shutter that you can feel through the whole truck until it goes back to 4 cyl mode.
Yes you have enough HP and TQ but I would never put up with the 4 cylinder vibrations. NEEDS balance shafts
It has balance shafts – pretty much any I4 2.0L or larger has them. Haven’t driven the 2.7T in anything yet, but my V6 ATS has noticeably worse idle and low-speed vibrations over the 2.0T models, so “not all 4-cylinders”. After 100k miles I’d still get the V6 again though, the response and sound are way better.
My 2.7 is smooth and quiet, had many different passengers in it and every one is surprised it’s a 4 cyl. My Truck is a 21 RST with the rally package (22″ wheels). Cruises effortlessly at 70 and has gotten 25mpg on a trip many times. Any one that say’s this 4 is not going to last has not done any research in it’s engineering or any other contemporary modern engine. Time for the knuckle draggers to stop whining, 2.7 is an over achiever and it’s durable.
Yeah and my silverado with a 6.2 will eat it alive and get 21-22 mpg
Big deal
3.0L Duramax diesel much quieter and smoother running down the road with much better MPG. Same torque.
malibu SS 310/430, new muscle car. take my money.
Dealers will probably have a bunch of 4t trucks on the used lot and they will not want to give you anything for yours.
GM can just keep their 2.7 engine. Ill keep with my older vehicles and go with another manufacture.
Gm Wish list : Zr2 /at4 x midsize wagon /suv Based on the new Colorado . Go to rear wheel drive ! and go after the 4runner grand Cherokee market , new gmc jimmy ? Chevy tracker ? or wrangler bronco buyers and please gm no 3rd row opt on some models not all of us have 4 kids I want payload cargo space , towing
I think they should offer both the 2.7L turbo and the 3.6L V6 as options. The 3.6L has plenty of power still, especially with a Trifecta tune. Both are good engines.
The world Olympic committee bans any kind of “boosting” to the naturally aspirated human. Maybe that’s why GM is investing a billion dollars in the next generation V8’s. “Monster” is a good description of the 2.7.
I have the 2.7 in my 2020 Sierra. I like it. Has enough power and great gas mileage. I think it will be a good motor for a mid size SUV.
I would fully expect the 2.7 to replace the 3.6 going forward. They can taylor the torque to the limitations of the 9spd trans and still make full rated power.
They tried this with the “torquey” 2.0T 4 cylinder in the Traverse RS when it first came out (back in 2019 I think it was) that didn’t last a year before they dropped it and made them all 3.6L v6’s instead. 2nd time’s a charm I guess?
It’s considered a torque monster, because it’s a lot of torque for a 4 cylinder, and for that horsepower rating. Goofy 🤡
No!
I want a full-size SUV like a Tahoe or Yukon with a V6 / 3.6-twin-turbo / 472HP/ LF4 engine.
The same goes for Silverado.
Only use the 2.7 turbo 310HP L3B in Colorado or Canyon or Traverse.
GM, Whatever you do please couple it to the 10 speed transmission.
Anyone who would take this over the 5.3L V8 is an idiot! GM’s I4 smoke and break like the rest of them. You want a real torque monster put turbos on a 7L V8. If you want to save money on fuel? Don’t get a turbo engine. Don’t want to go through a lot of fuel? Don’t drive anything over 3,000lbs.
No one wants the 2.7 in the full size truck now, I assume the same will happen with the full size suvs. Rebates anyone.