The Chevrolet LTG is a 2,495 cc, turbocharged inline — four gasoline engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct fuel injection, delivering responsive performance and strong low — end torque. In standard tuning it produces 191 kW (260 PS) with 400 Nm of torque, primarily used in mid — size and performance — oriented applications.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Malibu (9th gen), Cadillac…
Chevrolet
Production years 2014–2016 meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5; 2017–2020 models comply with LEV II standards .
The Chevrolet LTG is a 2,495 cc turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine engineered for transverse FWD/AWD platforms (2014–2020). It combines direct injection with continuously variable valve timing to deliver strong low-RPM torque and responsive throttle delivery. Designed to meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV II standards, it balances performance with emissions efficiency for premium applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,495 cc | |
Fuel type | Gasoline (RON 91 min) | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
Power output | 191 kW (260 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
Torque | 400 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (DFI) with low-pressure fuel pump | |
Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 / LEV II | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Closed-loop liquid cooling | |
Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (interference design) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 172 kg |
The Chevrolet LTG was used across Chevrolet's Delta II platform with transverse mounting and shared with Cadillac and Buick in North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the Malibu and performance calibration in the ATS-and from 2017 the facelifted Regal Sportback adopted revised fuel pump seals and updated PCM calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Cadillac's ATS-V to use the LTG with enhanced cooling and boost tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
The LTG's primary reliability risk is low-pressure fuel pump failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-humidity climates. Internal GM quality reports from 2016 indicated a significant share of pre-2017 engines requiring pump replacement before 120,000 km, while Australian NCAP records show increased engine-related service events in performance-trim ATS models. Sustained thermal cycling and delayed maintenance increase connector degradation, making inspection and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2014-2020) and Australian Department of Infrastructure failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LTG delivers strong performance and good durability when properly maintained. Early models (2014-2016) had concerns with fuel pump reliability, but post-2017 revisions improved connector sealing and pump longevity. Well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km. Regular oil changes with GM dexos1 5W-30 and periodic inspection of the fuel system greatly enhance longevity.
The most frequent issues are low-pressure fuel pump failure, intake valve carbon buildup, coolant leaks from the water pump housing, and valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in GM service bulletins. Direct injection contributes to carbon accumulation, which can be mitigated with proper maintenance and fuel additives.
The LTG was primarily used in the 9th generation Chevrolet Malibu (2016-2019 2LT/3LT trims). It was also shared with Cadillac ATS (2014-2019), Buick Regal (2018-2020 Sportback/TourX), and Opel Insignia B (2017-2020 GSE/OPC). North American variants met Tier 2 Bin 5, while later models complied with LEV II standards.
Yes, though gains are modest due to turbocharging. ECU remaps can yield +20-30 kW by optimizing boost and fuel curves. Cold air intakes and exhaust upgrades offer minor improvements. For significant power, methanol injection or larger turbo swaps are possible but require extensive modification. Always use RON 91+ fuel post-tune to prevent knock.
In a 2018 Malibu 3LT, combined fuel consumption is approximately 8.4 L/100km (34 mpg US / 40 mpg UK). Highway driving can achieve 6.9 L/100km (41 mpg US), while city use may reach 10.2 L/100km (28 mpg US). Real-world efficiency depends on driving style, but expect 28-34 mpg US (25-30 L/100km) in mixed conditions.
Yes. The LTG is an interference engine, meaning that if the timing chain fails or skips, the pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. This makes preventive maintenance of the timing system absolutely critical, especially given the long service intervals and chain-driven design.
GM specifies dexos1 5W-30 synthetic oil for the LTG. This formulation ensures proper lubrication of the turbocharger and timing chain. Oil changes should occur every 10,000 km or 12 months to maintain engine health and prevent premature wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.