How many Chevy LUV trucks were made?
About 260,000 to 320,000 Chevy LUV pickups were produced for the U.S. market during the 1972–1982 run, though exact counts vary by source.
The Chevy LUV, short for Light Utility Vehicle, was a badge-engineered version of Isuzu’s Faster/Motorized pickup line and was sold in North America by General Motors between 1972 and 1982. Built in collaboration with Isuzu, the LUV appeared in two generations with modest sales in a crowded market segment, leaving production totals that are difficult to pin down precisely.
Production by Generation
Below are common estimates that break down production by generation. These figures illustrate why there isn’t a single definitive total.
- First generation (early 1970s to late 1970s): estimated 110,000–140,000 units produced for the U.S. market.
- Second generation (late 1970s to early 1980s): estimated 150,000–180,000 units produced for the U.S. market.
Together, these ranges place the total U.S.-market LUV production in roughly the 260,000–320,000 unit range, with common estimates clustering around the high 280,000s to low 300,000s depending on what’s counted (exports, Canada, or other markets can shift the totals).
Why the Counts Vary
Several factors contribute to the variability in production numbers. GM’s record-keeping for badge-engineered imports was not always consistent across markets, and some counts include or exclude export variants, Canadian models, or Isuzu-built units sold under other badges. Automotive historians also rely on archived GM documents, dealer records, and Isuzu production data, which aren’t always synchronized or complete.
Additional context
Since the LUV shared its platform with Isuzu’s own KB/Faster line, cross-referencing sources can yield different totals. The truck’s relatively brief U.S. run and its status as a niche vehicle further complicate precise tallies.
Bottom Line
In broad terms, the Chevy LUV’s U.S. production sits in the hundreds of thousands, not a single-digit count or a multi-million figure. The consensus among automotive historians points to roughly 260,000–320,000 units, with many sources anchoring around the high 290,000s to around 300,000 depending on counting conventions.
Summary
Answering how many Chevy LUV trucks were made yields a range rather than a precise number. Most credible estimates place U.S. production between about 260,000 and 320,000 units over the 1972–1982 period, reflecting two generations and the complexities of counting badge-engineered imports. The exact total remains uncertain due to variations in counting exports and regional models.
Is GM really making an $8000 truck?
No, General Motors is not making an $8,000 truck, and the claim is based on rumors and misleading information. There is no official announcement or credible source confirming the production of such a vehicle, and the idea has been circulating as a hoax or a misunderstanding. While GM is releasing new, more affordable truck models like the 2026 Montana, they are not priced at $8,000.
- No official announcement: There have been no credible reports or official announcements from GM about a new truck priced at $8,000.
- Rumors and hoaxes: The "$8,000 truck" claim appears to be a rumor or a hoax circulating on the internet.
- Misleading information: Some articles claiming an $8,000 truck exists are either from unreliable sources or misinterpret other news about more affordable truck options.
- Actual new affordable models: GM is introducing new trucks, such as the 2026 Montana, but these are not priced at $8,000.
What engine came in a Chevy LUV?
All LUVS come equipped with an overhead-cam 1.8 Liter (110.8 Cu. In.) engine that burns unleaded gas. It has a cast aluminum head and fine tri-metal, steel-backed main bearings.
What does Chevy LUV stand for?
light utility vehicle
Chevrolet LUV. LUV is an acronym for "light utility vehicle".
How many miles per gallon does a 1972 Chevy LUV get?
For 1972, the Chevy LUV was powered by a 1.8L SOHC four banger good for 75 horsepower, which was enough giddayup to give the LUV around a 1,200 pound payload capacity. But the bigger news was the engine's fuel economy—north of 30 mpg highway, which was a serious benefit as the 1970s gas shortage dawned.
