The Cadillac L5P is a 6,642 cc, V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine produced from 2019 onwards. It features a pushrod overhead valve (OHV) design, 16-valve configuration, and General Motors' Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) system with continuously variable valve timing. In standard tune, it delivers 369 kW (502 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 881 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering high-output performance and refinement for full-size luxury and performance applications.
Fitted to models including the CT6-V and Escalade-V, the L5P was engineered for responsive driving dynamics and elevated power delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6d standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, which could lead to boost control issues or engine derate. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 19-06-01-010, is attributed to thermal fatigue in the actuator spring under sustained high load. In 2021, GM introduced a revised actuator with improved heat-resistant materials and recalibrated DFM logic to reduce thermal stress.
Cadillac
Production years 2019–present meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4010).
The Cadillac L5P is a 6,642 cc V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance luxury applications (2019–present). It combines forced induction with cylinder deactivation to deliver responsive power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,642 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.3 mm × 99.5 mm | |
| Power output | 369 kW (502 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 881 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection with port assist (DPI+) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin ball-bearing turbochargers with electronic wastegates | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (OHV) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 235 kg |
The twin-turbo V8 delivers extreme performance ideal for track and high-speed driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and valvetrain degradation. GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for direct injection components. Track use demands pre-conditioning and post-cooling procedures to maintain thermal equilibrium. The high-pressure fuel system requires use of premium fuel (RON 98) to prevent pre-ignition. Regular inspection of charge-air cooling and oil circuits is advised for sustained performance.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 19 06 01 010). Supersedes dexos1 Gen 2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all L5P models (2019–present) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4010).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95–98).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A28400, A28401, A28402, SIB 19 06 01 010
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4010)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Cadillac L5P was used across Cadillac's CT6/Escalade platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received model-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the Escalade-V and revised intake manifolds in the CT6-V-and from 2021 the updated turbocharger actuators with improved heat resistance, creating strict interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front passenger side of the engine block near the cylinder head (GM TIS A28400). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('P' for L5P series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2021 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from L8T: L5P uses a twin-turbo V8 with DFM, while L8T is a twin-turbo V8 without cylinder deactivation. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators before 09/2021 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 19 06 01 010).
The L5P's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal GM quality reports from 2022 indicated a significant number of pre-2021 units required actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show boost-related faults as a top cause of drivability complaints in Cadillac performance models. Extended service intervals and use of low-octane fuel increase thermal stress, making fuel quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2019–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC L5P.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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CADILLAC Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
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