GM Revs Up More Efficient Tiny Turbo Engines in China

General Motors Co. is launching its next-generation 1.0- and 1.3-liter 3-cylinder Ecotec engines for Buick and Chevrolet vehicles built and sold in China.

The turbocharged dual-injection engines are about 10% more fuel efficient than the 1.4- and 1.5-liter engines that power the current Buick Excelle GT sedan in China, GM says. The new 1.0-liter mill has a fuel efficiency rating of 4.9 liters/100 km, while the 1.3-liter unit consumes 5.8 liters/100 km.

The smaller engine generates 123 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque. The 1.3-liter turbo engine produces 160 hp and 170 lb-ft. of torque.

The new Ecotec engines are the first turbocharged powerplants to apply dual port injection, which helps optimize combustion. A compact aluminum structure and redesigned combustion chamber also are intended to bolster efficiency. GM says it applied a dozen technologies to reduce noise and vibration.