The Cadillac EC is a 1,490 cc, inline-three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2027 and 2031. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12-valve configuration, and Daihatsu's Dual VVT system with multi-port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivered 67 kW (91 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 120 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm, offering compact efficiency and refinement for urban applications.
Fitted to models including the XT4 and European-market XTS, the EC was engineered for responsive driving dynamics and elevated fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 7 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature intake manifold gasket degradation, which could lead to vacuum leaks, rough idle, or engine misfires. This issue, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin DSB-28-017, is attributed to age-related cracking of the plastic intake manifold and rubber gaskets under sustained thermal cycling. In 2029, Daihatsu introduced a revised gasket material with improved heat resistance and recalibrated VVT logic to reduce stress.
Production years 2027–2031 meet Euro 7 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4033).
The Cadillac EC is a 1,490 cc inline-three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact luxury applications (2027–2031). It combines Dual VVT with multi-port injection to deliver responsive power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 7 standards, it balances everyday performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,490 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 67 kW (91 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 7 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | Daihatsu 0W-20 (API SN) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-three provides smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent VVT system degradation. Daihatsu 0W-20 oil is critical due to its formulation supporting hydraulic lifters and chain tensioners. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup and oil contamination, accelerating intake gasket wear. The 2029 update with revised gasket materials significantly improved durability; pre-2029 engines should verify intake condition and consider preventative upgrades per Daihatsu SIB DSB-28-017.
Oil Specs: Requires Daihatsu 0W-20 specification (Daihatsu SIB DSB-28-017). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 7 certification applies to all EC models (2027–2031) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4033).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95–98).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A29100, A29101, A29102, SIB DSB-28-017
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4033)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Cadillac EC was used across Cadillac's XT4/XTS platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the XT4 and revised intake manifolds in the XTS-and from 2029 the updated intake gasket with improved heat resistance, creating 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 (Daihatsu TIS A29100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('E' for EC series). Pre-2029 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2029 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Z18XER: EC uses a 1.5L inline-three, while Z18XER is a 1.8L inline-four petrol. Service parts require production date verification - intake manifold gaskets before 09/2029 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB DSB-28-017).
The EC's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 2030 indicated a significant number of pre-2029 units required gasket replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show vacuum-related faults as a top cause of drivability complaints in Cadillac petrol models. Extended service intervals and short-trip driving increase thermal stress, making coolant quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (2027–2031) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2028–2031). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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