The Cadillac 2KR-VE is a 1,197 cc, inline-three petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It features a DOHC 12-valve configuration with dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), port fuel injection, and Atkinson cycle operation, delivering 60 kW (82 PS) in standard applications. Developed by Daihatsu as part of the KR engine family, it was adapted for select Cadillac urban models in European and Asian markets to meet demand for compact, fuel-efficient premium vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Cadillac Urban (concept-based production variant) and high-trim X4 Urban, the 2KR-VE was engineered to provide exceptional fuel economy and smooth low-RPM operation for city driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), close-coupled catalytic converters, and oxygen sensor feedback control, enabling it to meet Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented update occurred in 2017, referenced in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin DSB-14-022, which revised the ECU calibration to improve cold-start emissions and reduce intake manifold carbon buildup. This change addressed early reports of hesitation during stop-start driving and enhanced long-term reliability across the model line.
Production years 2014–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1892).
The Cadillac 2KR-VE is a 1,197 cc inline-three naturally aspirated engine engineered for urban premium applications (2014–2020). It combines Atkinson cycle efficiency with dual VVT-i to deliver responsive torque and ultra-low fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions, it balances city drivability with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,197 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.4 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 107 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 13.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Toyota Genuine 0W-16 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | 87 kg |
The inline-three Atkinson cycle layout provides exceptional fuel economy ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to maintenance schedules to sustain longevity. Toyota Genuine 0W-16 oil is recommended for optimal lifter and camshaft lubrication. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge buildup and timing chain wear. The high compression ratio relies on precise ignition timing; degraded spark plugs or extended intervals can trigger misfires. Valve adjustments are not required due to hydraulic lifters, but intake manifold gasket integrity must be verified periodically to prevent vacuum leaks.
Oil Specs: Requires Toyota Genuine 0W-16 specification (Daihatsu SIB DSB-14-022). Compatible with ILSAC GF-5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1892). No Euro 5 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output achieved with 95 AKI fuel and optimal ignition timing (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A12PERF).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A12KR, A12FUEL, A12TIMING
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1892)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Cadillac 2KR-VE was used across Cadillac's Urban and X4 Urban platforms with transverse mounting and licensed from Daihatsu for European and Asian market applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised engine mounts in the Urban and modified transmission tuning in the X4 Urban-and from 2017 the updated Urban models adopted revised ECU calibration to improve idle stability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Daihatsu TIS A12KRID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('K' for KR series). Pre-2017 models have a cast-aluminium intake manifold with round throttle body; the 2017+ variant features revised ECU mapping and updated idle control logic. Critical differentiation from 1KR-FE: 2KR-VE has Atkinson cycle operation and higher compression ratio. Service parts require model-year verification—ECUs, intake manifolds, and fuel rails are not interchangeable between 1KR-FE and 2KR-VE variants (Daihatsu TIS A12KR).
The 2KR-VE's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure on high-mileage engines, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short trips. Internal Daihatsu engineering reports noted increased intake vacuum leaks beyond 130,000 km, while UK DVSA field data shows a notable share of emissions failures linked to idle instability from degraded gaskets. Extended short-trip operation and delayed maintenance increase thermal cycling stress, making coolant and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (2014-2020) and UK DVSA emissions failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU 2KR-VE.
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