Whispers out of GM suggest the company is actively considering fitting its smooth, innovative new 4.5L Duramax V-8 turbodiesel into the engine bay of the Cadillac CTS. Fitting the engine is relatively straightforward, say sources, as long as Cadillac uses the raised hood from the CTS-v.
While it was initially expected the engine would serve in SUVs and light-duty pickups, GM engineers have long pointed out that the dual overhead cam, four-valve diesel V-8 will fit in the same space as a small-block gasoline V-8. They say the Duramax has been specifically designed for "a wide variety of vehicle applications." That obviously includes passenger cars.
GM says the 4.5L Duramax, which features aluminum cylinder heads with integrated manifolding and a variable-vane turbocharger mounted in the vee, is capable of delivering more than 310 hp and in excess of 520 lb-ft of torque. It also claims the engine meets the tough 2010 emissions standards, making it legal in all 50 states.