Is the GM L2B One of the Top Ten Engines?
2 Answers
General Motors' L2B engine is one of the "China Heart" Top Ten Engines, manufactured by Shanghai GM Dongyue Automotive Powertrain Co., Ltd., making it a domestically produced engine. Models such as the Baojun 730 and Wuling Rongguang are equipped with the L2B series engine. The Baojun 730's engine has a maximum power output of 105 kW and a maximum torque of 177 Nm, while the Wuling Rongguang's engine delivers a maximum power of 73 kW and a maximum torque of 135 Nm. For daily maintenance of the GM L2B engine, the following methods can be used: Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, select SD--SF grade gasoline engine oil based on the additional equipment in the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions. For diesel engines, choose CB--CD grade diesel engine oil according to mechanical load, with the selection standard not lower than the manufacturer's specified requirements. Regularly change the oil and oil filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will degrade over time. After a certain mileage, performance deteriorates, leading to various engine issues. To prevent malfunctions, change the oil periodically based on usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level. As oil passes through the fine pores of the filter, solid particles and viscous substances accumulate in the filter. If the filter becomes clogged and oil cannot pass through, it may rupture the filter element or open the safety valve, allowing oil to bypass through the relief valve and carry contaminants back to the lubrication points, accelerating engine wear and increasing internal contamination. Regularly clean the crankcase. During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides from the combustion chamber enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls, mixing with metal particles from component wear to form sludge. Small amounts remain suspended in the oil, while larger quantities precipitate, clogging filters and oil passages, making engine lubrication difficult and causing wear. Periodically use a radiator cleaner to flush the radiator. Removing rust and scale deposits not only ensures the engine operates normally but also extends the overall lifespan of the radiator and engine.
I've driven quite a few GM models, including the Chevrolet Cruze equipped with the L2B engine. This 1.5-liter engine performs decently in terms of fuel economy and durability, but it doesn't make the cut in so-called 'Top 10 Engine' lists. Awards like Ward's 10 Best Engines typically focus on innovative technologies, high performance, or ultra-efficient fuel savings, such as BMW's turbocharged engines or Toyota's hybrid systems. The GM L2B is based on older technology, lacks turbocharging, delivers average performance, and while its fuel consumption is stable, it's not top-tier—making it unlikely to stand out in innovation awards. However, it's cheap to maintain, rarely breaks down, and is well-suited for daily commuting. If you're just looking for reliability and practicality, there's no need to obsess over Top 10 rankings—but if you're searching for it among the forefront of engine technologies, you'll be out of luck.
