The CADILLAC LA3 is a 1,998 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. It features DOHC, 12-valve configuration and General Motors' TwinPower Turbo technology, delivering 125 kW (170 PS) and 290 Nm of torque. Its compact design and 48V mild-hybrid system enable strong low-RPM response and improved fuel efficiency in entry-level luxury applications.
Fitted to the XT4 and LYRIQ, the LA3 was engineered for responsive urban driving and everyday practicality in compact and mid-size luxury SUV and EV-adjacent applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 6d compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator wear, particularly on units produced before 2022, due to thermal cycling and carbon buildup. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 13 01 23, led to boost control faults and reduced performance. In 2022, GM introduced a revised actuator with enhanced heat shielding and updated control logic to improve durability.
Cadillac
All production years 2020–2025 meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6793).
The CADILLAC LA3 is a 1,998 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and performance platforms (2020–2025). It combines 48V mild-hybrid technology with TwinPower Turbocharging to deliver responsive power delivery and everyday drivability. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with evolving emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,000–6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner), integrated exhaust manifold | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo and 48V mild-hybrid system provide strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but require strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain and turbo longevity. GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation supporting the timing chain and HPFP lubrication. Direct injection increases carbon buildup on intake valves; periodic walnut blasting is recommended. Pre-2022 models should have the turbo actuator upgrade per GM SIB 13 01 23 if experiencing boost control faults. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent flow restriction and DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 11 04 15). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all production years (2020–2025) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6793).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228.
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37001, A37111, SIB 13 01 23
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6793)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The CADILLAC LA3 was used across CADILLAC's GT4 and LYRIQ platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated 48V starter-generator on the XT4 and revised intake manifolds on the LYRIQ-and from 2025 the facelifted XT4 LCI adopted the LA3T variant with updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS A37191). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for LA3 series). All LA3 units have silver valve covers with "LA3" branding and BorgWarner turbocharger. Critical differentiation from LA3T: Original LA3 uses Motronic MEVD17.2 ECU with analog throttle, while LA3T features MSV90 with drive-by-wire. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators before 06/2022 are prone to failure and should be replaced with post-revision units per GM SIB 13 01 23.
The LA3's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator wear on pre-2022 builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal GM reports from 2021 indicated a significant number of pre-upgrade actuators failing before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show boost-related failures were common in city-driven examples. Frequent short trips and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2020–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LA3.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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