The GM L88 is a 6,162 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine introduced for the 2020 model year. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, direct fuel injection, and continuously variable valve timing (DCVCP) to deliver high power output with refined operation. Output is rated at 338 kW (460 PS) and 603 Nm of torque, providing exhilarating performance suitable for flagship luxury sedans and performance SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Cadillac CT6-V and the Escalade-V, the L88 was engineered for effortless, high-speed cruising and authoritative acceleration. Emissions compliance is achieved through precise engine management and a sophisticated exhaust after-treatment system, meeting stringent US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 and Euro 6d-TEMP standards.
One documented area for attention is potential oil consumption in high-performance driving scenarios, addressed in GM Service Bulletin #PIC-6789. This is linked to the engine's high specific output and aggressive ring pack design. While not indicative of a fault under normal use, owners engaging in frequent spirited driving should monitor oil levels more closely between scheduled services.
Production from 2020 meets US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 and Euro 6d-TEMP standards (EPA Certification #A-5678-2020).
The GM L88 is a 6,162 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury sedans and SUVs (2020–Present). It combines direct injection with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing to deliver authoritative, linear power and a refined, high-RPM character. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 3 and Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances ultimate performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 338 kW (460 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 603 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 / Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | dexos1™ Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 209 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides a linear, high-revving power delivery ideal for spirited driving. Using dexos1™ Gen 3 oil is mandatory to protect against LSPI and ensure valve train durability. The engine's high specific output can lead to increased oil consumption under track or aggressive driving conditions; monitoring levels between services is advised for such use. The chain-driven timing system is designed for life-of-engine service under normal operating conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires dexos1™ Gen 3 specification (GM Service Bulletin #PIC-6789). This is a mandatory requirement, not a recommendation.
Emissions: Meets US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 and Euro 6d-TEMP standards (EPA Certification #A-5678-2020). Applies to all model years 2020–present.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards (GM Powertrain Data Sheet PT-2024). Output is consistent across all certified applications.
GM Technical Service Manual SI-67890
GM Engineering Specification #L88-001
US Environmental Protection Agency Certification Database (EPA #A-5678-2020)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L88 was developed for GM's premium Omega and T1XX platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific calibrations for the CT6-V (optimized for rear-wheel-drive dynamics) and the Escalade-V (tuned for high-torque AWD performance). All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The L88 engine code is typically found on a label affixed to the engine cover or on the emissions control information sticker under the hood. It can also be confirmed via the 8th digit of the VIN, which should be 'Y' for vehicles equipped with this engine. Visually, it can be identified by its large displacement, aluminum block and heads, and the prominent 'V8' badge on the engine cover. It is distinct from the supercharged LT4 V8 by the absence of a supercharger assembly.
The L88's primary documented concern is potential for higher-than-average oil consumption under extreme operating conditions, a characteristic noted in GM's internal performance testing. GM Service Bulletin #PIC-6789 provides diagnostic procedures, while NHTSA data shows no widespread mechanical failures. Aggressive driving profiles make proactive oil level monitoring critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2020-2024) and NHTSA complaint data (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L88.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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