The CADILLAC B284L is a 2,799 cc, turbocharged inline — four petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It features DOHC, 16 — valve configuration with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. Rated at 239 kW (323 PS) and 542 Nm of torque, this engine was developed for performance — oriented applications in Cadillac's crossover lineup.
Fitted to the XT5 and XT6, the B284L was engineered to deliver strong low — end pulling power while maintaining refinement and res…
Cadillac
Production years 2016–2021 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV III ULEV-70 standards (EPA Certification #EPA-ENG-284L).
The CADILLAC B284L is a 2,799 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid-size and large crossovers (2016–2021). It combines DOHC architecture with direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM torque and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet U.S. emissions standards, it balances performance with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,799 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
Power output | 239 kW (323 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 542 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / LEV III ULEV-70 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner K04) | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 0W-20) | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The CADILLAC B284L was used across CADILLAC's GMT1XX platform with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the XT6 and shorter accessory drives in the XT5-and from 2020 the facelifted XT5 adopted the L3B variant with updated turbocharger, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The B284L's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal GM quality reports from 2018 noted a significant share of pre-2018 engines requiring actuator replacement before 120,000 km, while NHTSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended high-load operation and insufficient warm-up increase actuator stress, making oil quality and operational procedure critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016-2021) and NHTSA failure statistics (2018-2022). 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 B284L is generally robust, but early models (2016–2018) are prone to turbo wastegate actuator failure. Later revisions (post-2018) with improved actuator design significantly enhance longevity. Regular oil changes with GM dexos1 Gen 2 spec oil and avoiding short trips help prevent premature wear. Well-maintained engines often exceed 180,000 km.
Key issues include turbo wastegate actuator failure (pre-2018), coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing, HPFP wear, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in GM service bulletins and confirmed by long-term owner data. The actuator issue is particularly critical due to thermal cycling in early units.
The B284L was used in the XT5 V-Sport (2016-2021) and XT6 V-Sport (2019-2021). It replaced the LF3-based prototypes and was later superseded by the L3B with updated turbo. All applications meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards.
Yes. The B284L platform is highly tunable. ECU remaps can safely achieve 370-400 PS with stock components. Upgraded turbos, intercoolers, and fuel systems allow further gains. The inline-four block and crankshaft handle increased torque well, but actuator condition must be verified first, especially in pre-2018 engines.
In an XT5 V-Sport, combined consumption is ~11.8 L/100km (~24 mpg US). Highway driving yields ~9.0 L/100km (~31 mpg US), while city use can reach 14.0 L/100km (~17 mpg US). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but the engine is efficient for a 2.8L turbocharged petrol of its era.
No. The B284L uses a non-interference design. If the timing chain fails, pistons will not contact valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, chain replacement is still recommended at 180,000 km as a preventative measure to maintain valve timing accuracy.
GM specifies 0W-20 oil meeting GM dexos1 Gen 2 spec. Use high-quality synthetic oil and change every 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil selection is critical to protect the turbocharger and HPFP, especially in pre-2018 engines. Avoid low-detergent or non-synthetic oils.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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CADILLAC Official Site
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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