When was the last Chevy LUV made?
The last Chevy LUV was produced in 1982. The badge-engineered Isuzu pickup GM sold in North America ended its run as Chevrolet shifted to the S-10 to replace it, marking the end of the LUV era.
Named for Light Utility Vehicle, the Chevy LUV traced its lineage to Isuzu’s Faster/KB-based pickups and became part of GM’s badge-engineering strategy in the 1970s. This article outlines how long the model lasted, why production ended, and what came after.
Origins and Market Life
The Chevy LUV began in the 1970s as a North American variant of Isuzu’s Faster/KB series, rebadged for Chevrolet customers. It served as GM’s compact pickup offering during a period when badge-engineered partnerships were common in the industry. The LUV remained in production for several years as GM continued to sell the truck under Chevrolet badges in the United States and Canada before transitioning to a newer GM platform.
Key facts about the Chevy LUV's production and replacement.
- The LUV was essentially an Isuzu Faster/KB-derived pickup marketed by Chevrolet in North America.
- It filled the role of a compact pickup for GM during the 1970s and into the early 1980s.
- GM introduced the Chevrolet S-10 to replace the LUV, signaling a move to a new platform and updated design.
- The LUV’s legacy sits within GM-Isuzu collaboration history and in the era of badge-engineered trucks.
In summary, the LUV’s life in North America culminated with the 1982 model year, as GM shifted to the S-10 for its compact pickup lineup.
End of Production
The end of the LUV era came as GM reorganized its compact pickup strategy around a dedicated GM platform rather than badge-engineered variants. The Chevrolet S-10 debuted and began replacing the LUV in the early 1980s, with 1982 regarded as the final year for the LUV name in North America.
Why the LUV Was Replaced
Industry strategy and product modernization drove the change. GM sought a more unified, modern compact pickup that could offer updated styling, improved safety and efficiency, and better integration with other GM trucks and components. The S-10 delivered on these goals, marking a shift away from the older Isuzu-based LUV design.
What Changed Afterward
The arrival of the Chevrolet S-10 introduced a new design language, improved interior comfort, and a refreshed driving experience. This transition reflected broader market trends toward more contemporary compact pickups rather than badge-engineered variants of foreign designs.
Summary
When was the Chevy LUV discontinued?
2012
In 1972 Chevrolet® started importing a small pickup truck from Japan which they called the Chevy® LUVTM . It ran though 4 model generations before being discontinued in 2012.
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.
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".
