The automotive world is mourning the loss of a legendary powertrain. General Motors has confirmed the impending retirement of its celebrated 3.0-liter inline-six Duramax diesel engine. Renowned for its exceptional torque delivery, commendable fuel efficiency, and formidable towing capacity, the Duramax has been a cornerstone of GM’s full-size SUV lineup.
However, the tightening noose of emissions regulations has forced GM’s hand, rendering the engine’s continued development economically unfeasible. Production of the Duramax for SUVs will conclude on August 8, with pickup trucks receiving the engine until September.
This marks the end of an era for those seeking unmatched performance and capability in their large SUVs. While Duramax’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, it serves as a poignant reminder of the evolving automotive world and the relentless pursuit of cleaner emissions technologies.
General Motors has been offering diesel powertrains in its full-size SUV lineup, including the Suburban and Tahoe, since 2021. The initial 3.0-liter Duramax diesel, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, generated 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, enabling impressive towing and payload capacities.
However, for 2025, GM is introducing a more potent 3.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel, designated LZ0, which delivers 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque while promising improved fuel efficiency.
Despite this advancement, the diesel option has been entirely dropped from the 2025 Cadillac Escalade lineup due to low demand, representing only about 5% of Escalade sales.
Consequently, the 2025 Escalade will exclusively feature gasoline-powered V8 engines: a standard 420 horsepower, 460 pound-feet version and a range-topping, supercharged 682 horsepower, 653 pound-feet variant, both mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission and available with all-wheel drive.
