Loading

Who makes GMC engines?

General Motors makes GMC engines. In GM's lineup, gasoline engines come from GM's Global Propulsion Systems network, while the diesel engines used in GMC trucks are produced by DMAX, a joint venture between GM and Isuzu Motors.


GMC, the truck and SUV division of General Motors, relies on two primary engine sources: GM's in-house gasoline powertrains from Global Propulsion Systems (GPS) and the Duramax diesel family built by DMAX, LLC, the GM-Isuzu partnership. This arrangement underpins GMC's current powertrain lineup, which centers on the EcoTec3 gasoline engines for light-duty models and the Duramax diesels for heavier-duty applications. Production locations and exact engine assignments can evolve with new model years, but the core relationship remains consistent: GM designs and builds the gasoline engines, while Duramax diesels are produced through the Isuzu-GM joint venture.


GM's Engine Production Network


GM operates a network of engine plants across North America that supply GMC and other GM brands with gasoline powertrains. The Global Propulsion Systems division oversees the design, engineering, testing, and manufacture of these engines, which include various V6 and V8 configurations optimized for trucks and SUVs. The exact plant locations for a given engine family can vary by model year and product lineup.


Gasoline engine families


The primary gasoline powertrains for GMC vehicles come from GM's EcoTec3 family, which encompasses multiple V6 and V8 configurations designed for durability, performance, and efficiency in trucks and SUVs.



  • EcoTec3 gasoline engine family (various V6 and V8 configurations) used across GMC Sierra, Canyon, and related models.


The above list highlights the core gasoline engine sources for GMC vehicles.


Duramax diesel engines


Duramax diesel powerplants powering GMC trucks are produced by DMAX, LLC, General Motors' joint venture with Isuzu Motors. DMAX operates the Moraine, Ohio facility, which builds the Duramax 6.6L V8 diesel and the newer 3.0L inline-six diesel for GM pickups, supplying GMC models such as the Sierra HD and other diesel variants.



  • Duramax 6.6L V8 diesel

  • Duramax 3.0L inline-six diesel


The Duramax line represents GM's primary diesel offering for GMC trucks, manufactured by the DMAX joint venture.


Additional notes on production and partnerships


Engine supply arrangements can shift with model-year changes and new product introductions. While gasoline engines largely come from GM's GPS network, diesels continue to be produced by DMAX, reflecting a long-standing partnership with Isuzu. Global production locations and supplier arrangements may vary by model and market, including potential assembly in GM's international plants.


Summary


GMC engines are primarily produced by General Motors through its Global Propulsion Systems for gasoline engines, and by DMAX, LLC for Duramax diesel engines in Moraine, Ohio, via the GM-Isuzu joint venture. This dual-source approach underpins GMC's powertrain lineup across its trucks and SUVs.


In short, GM acts as the primary maker of GMC engines for gasoline powertrains, with Duramax diesels supplied through the Isuzu partnership. The engine lineup centers on EcoTec3 gasoline engines and Duramax diesels, reflecting GM's broader powertrain strategy for trucks and SUVs.


Summary note for readers


For readers seeking a quick takeaway: GMC engines come from two main sources—GM's own gasoline engine program (Global Propulsion Systems) and Duramax diesels produced by DMAX, the GM-Isuzu joint venture. This arrangement has shaped GMC’s powertrain offerings across its current lineup.

Who makes GMC truck engines?


General Motors
Truck engines built by the GMC division of General Motors.



Are GMC and Chevy engines the same?


Deciphering GMC from Chevrolet
In fact, they share the same chassis, engines, and more. The main difference, though, is the level of luxury; GMC is more upmarket, or luxurious, than its Chevy sibling.



Who makes GMC motors?


GMC (formerly the General Motors Truck Company [1911–1943], or the GMC Truck & Coach Division [1943–1998]) is a division of American automotive manufacturer General Motors (GM) for trucks and utility vehicles. GMC currently makes SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and light-duty trucks.



Who makes GM engines?


Tonawanda builds engines for GM trucks and SUVs as well as the Chevrolet Corvette. Opened in 1938, the site originally produced 6-cylinder engines and axles for Chevrolet vehicles. During World War II, Tonawanda built 14- and 18-cylinder aircraft engines.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.