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When it comes to engines, General Motors has a long history of innovation and performance. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, also known as the LKO, is one of GM’s latest offerings and has been making waves in the automotive world.
Despite all the attention this engine is getting, one of the biggest questions remains: “Is GM turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder any good?” If you are among such people and are eager to know if the new LKO engine from America’s biggest automaker is worth purchasing, I bring you this guide.
Here, we will explore everything related to this engine, including key specifications, horsepower, warranties, and more.
Let’s dive in.
GM 2.5L Turbo Specs
The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is a modern powerplant designed by General Motors for performance and efficiency. Have a closer look at the key specifications of this latest launch:
- Displacement: 2.5 liters
- Configuration: Inline-four cylinder
- Aspiration: Turbocharged
- Horsepower: 328 hp
- Torque: 326 lb-ft
- Transmission: Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
- Applications: Found in vehicles like the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, 2024 GMC Acadia, and the upcoming 2025 Buick Enclave
Key Additional Features
Here, take a look at some impressive additional features that you get to enjoy with this potent gasoline engine.
- Direct Injection: The presence of direct injection enhances the overall gas mileage and power output of this engine.
- Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC): This one improves the breathing and performance of the engine.
- Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT): The CVVT optimizes the performance and efficiency of the engine across different engine speeds.
- Aluminum Construction: The aluminum construction reduces weight and improves heat dissipation.
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump: This feature ensures precise fuel delivery for better performance.
Power and Performance
The new turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is designed to deliver a blend of power and efficiency. It produces an impressive 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This is a significant improvement over GM’s naturally aspirated 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque 3.6-liter V6 engine, which it replaces.
The new turbocharged LKO offers better acceleration and more responsive performance, making it a great option for both city driving and highway cruising.
- GM 2.5l Turbo Horsepower: 328 Hp
- GM 2.5l Turbo Torque: 326 Lb-Ft
Efficiency and Emissions
One of the biggest reasons for GM switching from its 3.6-liter V6 engine to the turbocharged four-cylinder is due to emissions and fuel efficiency considerations.
Out of the two, the turbocharged engine is more fuel-efficient, helping General Motors meet the stringent Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. With it, you get approximately 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Additionally, the new engine’s design includes advanced emissions control systems, which makes it a more environmentally friendly option.
- GM 2.5l Turbo Fuel Economy: 22 city / 29 highway (approx.)
Versatility and Applications
The new 2.5-liter turbocharged engine is versatile and, at present, can be found in various GM models, including the 2024 GMC Acadia and the Chevrolet Blazer. The compact size of this engine makes its usage easy in different vehicle configurations, providing a good balance of power and efficiency for a range of applications.
Whether you are looking for an SUV, a sedan, or a truck, this engine can meet all your needs. From daily commuters to family haulers, this engine can adapt to different driving needs.
Reliability and Maintenance
GM has built the LKO engine with durability in mind. It features a robust design with high-quality materials, ensuring long-term reliability. However, it has received mixed reviews in terms of reliability. This engine generally performs well under normal conditions, but some users have reported issues with over-time usage.
What’s surprising is that many owners who opted for regular maintenance and proper care have reported positive experiences with the engine’s performance and longevity.
Therefore, regular maintenance, like oil changes and timely servicing, will keep your new turbocharged engine running smoothly for years to come.
Warranty
General Motors offers seven different types of warranties and protection plans to LKO engine buyers. Take a closer look at the perks you can get with your purchase:
- Powertrain Warranty: GM offers a powertrain warranty that covers this engine for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty provides buyers with peace of mind, ensuring that any major issues with the engine will be addressed by the company during the designated period.
- Bumper-To-Bumper Limited Warranty: This warranty covers your entire vehicle for repairs, including parts and labor, to handle any defect in materials or workmanship for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty also includes coverage for your vehicle’s tires against defects in material or workmanship and even towing to the nearest authorized dealership for warranty repairs.
- Emissions Control System Warranty: Under this warranty, your vehicle’s emissions control systems are covered. For light-duty cars or trucks, the emissions-related components are covered for two years or 24,000 miles, and select emissions-related components are warranted for 8 years or 80,000 miles, whichever milestone you reach first.
- Corrosion Protection Warranty: Under this warranty, the rust-through corrosion on your purchase is covered for 6 years or 100,000 miles, again, whichever comes first.
- Roadside Assistance: GM prioritizes its customers comfort above everything else. This is why the company offers roadside assistance for 5 years, or 60,000 miles. This includes services like flat tire changes, towing, lock-out assistance, and fuel efficiency.
- Courtesy Transportation; If your GM ride is within the warranty period and it requires warranty repairs, GM provides alternate transportation or reimbursement for your transportation costs.
- Extended Warranty Options: General Motors also offers extended warranty plans that can provide coverage for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles. These plans include options like Silver, Platinum, and Powertrain, with each covering different components.
Overall, these warranties are designed to provide you with comprehensive coverage and peace of mind. And when I compared GM’s turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine warranty to other manufacturers’ warranties, it turns out that GM’s warranty is competitive, offering robust coverage for powertrain and corrosion protection, along with extended roadside assistance.
Take a look at the comparison of GM’s warranties with its top competitors in the table below:
| GM’s Warranty | Toyota’s Warranty | Honda’s Warranty | Ford’s Warranty |
| Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles.Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles.Corrosion Protection Warranty: 6 years or 100,000 miles.Roadside Assistance: 5 years or 60,000 miles. | Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles.Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles.Corrosion Protection Warranty: 5 years with unlimited miles.Roadside Assistance: 2 years with unlimited miles. | Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles.Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles.Corrosion Protection Warranty: 5 years with unlimited miles.Roadside Assistance: 3 years or 36,000 miles. | Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles.Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles.Corrosion Protection Warranty: 5 years with unlimited miles.Roadside Assistance: 5 years or 60,000 miles. |
Driving Experience
The reviews regarding the driving experience offered by this GM engine are typically positive. The new four-cylinder turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, making highway merging and overtaking easier.
However, some drivers might find this engine’s sound more noisy compared to the naturally aspirated engines. So, if you are someone who prefers a quiet cabin, the noise issue can be a minor setback for you.
Latest & Upcoming GM Cars Featuring This Engine
The GM turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is featured in several vehicles. The latest and upcoming models featuring this impressive engine are:
- 2024 Chevrolet Traverse
- 2024 GMC Acadia
- 2025 Buick Enclave
These vehicles perfectly showcase the strength of this engine’s impressive blend of power and efficiency, making each of them a great choice for all kinds of driving needs.
Are There Any Known Issues With The GM Turbocharged 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine?
Although the GM turbocharged two-liter, four-cylinder engine is attracting quite a bit of attention, it is not free from issues. There are some common problems reported by owners across different types of vehicles. Check out those issues below to understand if buying this engine is worth the trouble or not.
- Vibration and Rough Idling: Some owners have complained about vibrations and rough idling. These issues mainly arise due to factors like engine mounts, fuel delivery problems, or software glitches.
- Carbon Buildup: Like other direct-injection engines, this turbocharged engine can also suffer from carbon buildup on the intake valves. This is a concerning matter, as it can affect the performance and efficiency of the engine over time.
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump Issues: Turbocharged engines generally rely on high-pressure fuel pumps, which can sometimes cause issues with fuel delivery or even lead to complete failure of fuel delivery.
- Turbocharger Wear: Like any other engine, the turbocharger itself is prone to wearing, leading to a decrease in performance and sometimes arising from the need for replacement.
NOTE: One thing worth noticing is that despite these issues, many owners find the GM 2.5L turbo engine to be reliable and appreciate its balance of power and efficiency. Regular maintenance and timely servicing can help you alleviate some of these issues.
Are There Any Recalls Related To This Engine?
As of now, there are no specific recalls reported for the GM’s turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, it is always better to stay updated on any potential issues by checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website or GM’s official recall page.
What Should I Do If There Is a Recall Related To This Engine?
If, after you purchase your long-awaited GM 2.5L turbo, suddenly there is a recall related to this engine, you should not panic. Instead, follow the steps mentioned below:
- Check For Recalls: Visit the NHTSA website or GM’s official recall page to see if your vehicle is affected by the recall. By providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the inquiry prompt, you can even check for specific recalls.
- Contact Your Dealer: If, after checking the NHTSA and GM’s websites, you find out that your vehicle is affected by a recall, you should contact your local GM dealership. They will provide you with information on the recall and schedule an appointment for all the necessary repairs.
- Schedule Repairs: Arrange a time for recall repairs that is convenient to you. Generally, these repairs are performed at no cost to you.
- Follow Up: After you are done with the repairs, keep any type of documentation provided by the dealership. This is an important step, as this documentation can be useful for future reference or if you encounter any related issues.
- Stay Informed: Keep a close eye on any further announcements from GM or NHTSA related to your vehicle. Recalls can sometimes be updated or expanded. Thus, staying informed is highly crucial for all car owners.
Conclusion
The answer to the question, “Is GM turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder any good?” mainly depends on your preference. Overall, this engine is a solid choice for people seeking a powerful yet efficient engine. Its impressive performance, fuel economy, and versatility make it a standout option in the American automotive market. It is designed to deliver a satisfying driving experience.
