What motor came in a Chevy LUV?
The Chevy LUV used an Isuzu-sourced 1.8-liter inline-four gasoline engine. This badge-engineered pickup, derived from the Isuzu Faster, was sold in North America from the early 1970s through the early 1980s.
Engine origin and design
The LUV’s powerplant came from Isuzu’s KB/Faster family, representing GM’s strategy of importing compact, economical trucks for the American market. The standard engine used in most U.S. and Canadian LUVs was the 1.8-liter inline-four, designed for reliability and compact packaging in a light-duty pickup. Production spanned roughly from 1972 to 1982 in North America.
Key facts about the Chevy LUV engine
Below are the essential observations about the engine that powered most Chevy LUV pickups.
- Engine: Isuzu 1.8-liter inline-four (commonly referred to as the G180)
- Fuel system: carbureted gasoline engine
- Source: Isuzu, used in the Isuzu KB/Faster pickup family and rebadged as the Chevy LUV for North American markets
- Market application: primary engine option for North American LUVs (approximately 1972–1982)
These points capture the core characteristics of the LUV’s powerplant and its role in GM’s export strategy for compact pickups.
Historical context and notes
GM leveraged Isuzu’s compact powertrain to compete in the growing small-pickup segment, delivering a practical, lightweight truck with straightforward maintenance. While the LUV was not aimed at high performance, its 1.8-liter engine provided adequate torque for urban hauling and everyday work, helping it remain a popular economical option during its era.
Summary
The Chevy LUV’s motor was an Isuzu-sourced 1.8-liter inline-four gasoline engine (the G180), part of the Isuzu KB/Faster family, powering most U.S. and Canadian LUVs from the early 1970s to the early 1980s as Chevrolet’s badge-engineered compact pickup.
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.
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How much horsepower does a 1978 Chevy LUV have?
80-hp
80-hp overhead-cam engine. LUV's 4-cylinder, 110.8-cu. -in.
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.
How much horsepower does a 1975 Chevy LUV have?
75 horsepower
Peppy overhead cam 4-cylinder engine. Here's an overhead cam engine rated at 75 horsepower (SAE net) that can handle loads, highway speeds and even carry a lightweight camper. The cast aluminum cylinder head saves on weight and helps LUV deliver economical gas mileage.
