What diesel engine was in the Chevy Luv?
The Chevy LUV used an Isuzu 2.2-liter inline-4 diesel, commonly known as the Isuzu 4BA1, in select markets during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Background: how the LUV incorporated diesel power
The Chevy LUV was a badge-engineered version of the Isuzu Faster pickup, produced through a GM-Isuzu collaboration. While gasoline engines were available, a diesel option appeared in certain export markets to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel economy. The 2.2-liter Isuzu diesel became the standard diesel choice for those LUVs equipped with diesel power.
What is the Isuzu 4BA1?
The engine in question is a 2.2-liter inline-4 diesel developed by Isuzu and used across various light-duty Isuzu vehicles of the era. In the LUV, it served as the primary diesel option in markets where buyers sought Diesel fuel efficiency and durability in a compact pickup. The 4BA1 family is characterized by its relatively modest power output but strong low-end torque for everyday trucking needs.
Specs and performance (as installed in the LUV)
Before listing the key details, note that exact figures can vary by year and market. The following are representative characteristics of the Isuzu 4BA1 diesel as it appeared in the Chevy LUV:
- Engine: Isuzu 2.2-liter inline-4 diesel (Isuzu 4BA1)
- Displacement: 2,190 cc
- Power output: typically in the range of about 60–70 horsepower, depending on year and market
- Torque: roughly 90–105 lb-ft (120–140 Nm), depending on version
- Fuel system: mechanically governed diesel design common to Isuzu diesels of the era
These figures reflect the era’s emphasis on reliability and fuel economy rather than outright horsepower. Exact performance would have varied with emission controls and local tuning.
Market presence and historical context
Diesel LUVs were more common in export and international markets where diesel fuel was widely used and vehicle operators valued fuel efficiency. In North America, diesel LUVs were relatively rare, and most buyers who recall the model remember the gasoline options; however, the diesel variant remained an important option in several markets during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Bottom line
In summary, the Chevy LUV’s diesel option was the Isuzu 2.2-liter inline-4 diesel, known as the 4BA1. It provided a practical balance of economy and practicality for a compact pickup, with performance figures typical of light-duty diesels of its era. Engine availability varied by year and market, reflecting the collaboration between GM and Isuzu and the diverse needs of global buyers.
Summary
The Chevy LUV was offered with a small Isuzu diesel—the 2.2-liter inline-4 (4BA1)—in certain markets. This engine emphasized fuel efficiency and durability, making it a notable option for buyers seeking economical hauling in a compact pickup during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
What engine came in the 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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1982 Chevy LUV diesel get?
35 EST. HWY. 28 EPA EST. MPG (CITY) UNBEATEN PAYLOAD AND CARGO BOX LENGTH.
What years did they make the Chevy LUV diesel?
North American sales ended after the release of the 1982 model year Chevrolet S-10 in 1981. The 1981 and 1982 model years were the only years the 2.2 liter diesel engine was offered in the United States.
What diesel engine did Chevy use before Duramax?
Before the Duramax engine, Chevy used the Detroit Diesel V8, with engine sizes of 6.2L (from 1982) and 6.5L (introduced in 1992). The 6.5L was an updated version of the 6.2L and was available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged models, with the turbo version becoming the primary diesel for Chevy trucks until the Duramax was introduced in 2001.
You can watch this video to learn more about the history of Chevy's diesel engines: 1mThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Mar 16, 2025
- 6.2L Detroit Diesel V8: Introduced in 1982, this naturally aspirated engine was developed with Detroit Diesel and was the first permanent diesel option in a light-duty Chevrolet and GMC truck.
- 6.5L Detroit Diesel V8: Introduced in 1992, this was an update to the 6.2L engine and was the last diesel engine to be used by Chevy before the Duramax.
- It was the first diesel engine in a pickup truck to feature electronic fuel injection, though it used indirect injection.
- It was offered in both a naturally aspirated version and a more powerful turbocharged version, which became the main option for Chevy trucks.
- Transition to Duramax: The 6.5L engine was phased out and replaced by the new 6.6L Duramax V8 in 2001. The Duramax was a significant improvement, featuring a more modern design with an aluminum head and high-pressure common rail direct injection, which allowed it to produce much more power.
