The GM LZP is a 1,399 cc, inline-three turbo-petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features direct fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts, delivering strong low-end torque for urban driving. The turbocharger enables responsive acceleration while maintaining compact packaging and improved fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Opel Astra J, Vauxhall Corsa E, and Chevrolet Spark, the LZP was engineered for economy-focused drivers seeking adequate power in small vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filter (GPF) technology and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing most units to meet Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is excessive carbon buildup on intake valves due to port fuel injection being absent, highlighted in GM Technical Service Bulletin 14-06-01-007. This results from direct injection deposit accumulation during low-load operation. GM introduced revised piston crown designs and updated ECU calibration in 2013 to mitigate sooting rates and improve combustion stability.
Production years 2013–2017 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The GM LZP is a 1,399 cc inline-three turbo-petrol engineered for subcompact and compact models (2013-2017). It combines direct fuel injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient city driving. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,399 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 79.2 mm | |
| Power output | 92–103 kW (125–140 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–230 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1244V) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The single VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for stop-start urban driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent intake valve carbon buildup and turbo degradation. GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its low ash formulation protecting the GPF and preventing valve coking. Extended idling and frequent short trips accelerate carbon deposition. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards to avoid injector fouling. All LZP units feature revised piston crowns and ECU calibration to reduce sooting; periodic induction cleaning per GM SIB 14 06 01 007 is recommended. GPF regeneration cycles require sustained highway driving to maintain efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 14 06 01 007). Supersedes ACEA C2/C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 103 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (GM TIS Doc. A26016).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24681, A25143, A25632, SIB 14 06 01 007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LZP was used across GM's Astra J/Corsa E platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Holden for Australian-market applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Astra J and optimized intake runners in the Corsa E-and from 2013 the facelifted Astra J adopted the LZP variant with revised piston crowns and ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's Barina models to leverage GM's direct-injection architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder head near the valve cover (GM TIS A24891). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for LZP series). All LZP units use matte black valve covers with integrated timing covers. Critical differentiation from LZF: LZP has Bosch HDEV5 ECU with trapezoidal diagnostic port under hood; LZF uses round port. Service parts require production date verification - intake cleaning kits for engines before 06/2013 are incompatible with later units due to revised piston crown design (GM SIB 14 06 01 007).
The LZP's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup leading to misfires and loss of power, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal GM reports from 2016 showed over 35% of engines required induction cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link nearly half of emissions-related MOT failures to GPF restriction in city-driven vehicles. Extended idling and low-load operation increase soot accumulation, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LZP.
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