The GM LFX Engine | Nerd Level Facts and Stats

GM 3.6L LFX Engine: Complete Specs, Power, and Vehicle List for RX-8 Swaps

If you're considering an engine swap for your Mazda RX-8, the GM LFX 3.6L V6 engine is one of the best choices available. Found in several GM vehicles from 2012 to 2017, this modern, reliable engine offers outstanding power, efficiency, and aftermarket support. Below, you'll find detailed specifications, power output data, and a complete list of vehicle applications to guide your swap project.

camaro lfx engine

Photo Credit: 3.6 VVT Engine – Chevrolet Camaro V-6 by Michael Sheehan, licensed under CC BY 2.0.

GM 3.6L LFX Engine Technical Specifications

SpecificationDetails
Engine CodeLFX
TypeNaturally Aspirated, DOHC 60° V6
Displacement3.6 liters (3564 cc / 217 cu in)
Bore × Stroke94 mm × 85.6 mm (3.7 in × 3.37 in)
Block MaterialAluminum Alloy
Cylinder HeadsAluminum Alloy
ValvetrainDOHC, 24-valve with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Fuel SystemDirect Injection
Compression Ratio11.5:1
Redline RPM~7200 RPM
Fuel Type87-91 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
Oil CapacityApprox. 6 quarts (5.7 liters)
Engine Weight~360 lbs (fully dressed)

GM LFX Engine Horsepower & Torque Ratings

Vehicle ModelHorsepowerTorque
Chevrolet Camaro (2012–2015)323 hp @ 6800 RPM278 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM
Cadillac CTS (2012–2015)318 hp @ 6800 RPM275 lb-ft @ 4900 RPM
Cadillac ATS (2013–2015)321 hp @ 6800 RPM274 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM
Chevrolet Impala (2012–2013)300 hp @ 6500 RPM262 lb-ft @ 5300 RPM
Buick LaCrosse (2012–2016)303 hp @ 6800 RPM264 lb-ft @ 5300 RPM
Buick Regal GS (2014–2017)310 hp @ 6800 RPM282 lb-ft @ 5200 RPM
Chevrolet Equinox (2013–2017)301 hp @ 6500 RPM272 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM
GMC Terrain (2013–2017)301 hp @ 6500 RPM272 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM

Vehicles Equipped with GM LFX Engine (2012-2017)

Cars and Sedans

  • Chevrolet Camaro LT: 2012–2015
  • Chevrolet Impala LT/LTZ: 2012–2013
  • Chevrolet Caprice PPV: 2012–2017
  • Cadillac CTS Sedan/Coupe/Wagon: 2012–2015
  • Cadillac ATS Sedan: 2013–2015
  • Buick LaCrosse: 2012–2016
  • Buick Regal GS: 2014–2017

SUVs and Crossovers

  • Chevrolet Equinox: 2013–2017
  • Chevrolet Traverse: 2013–2017
  • GMC Terrain: 2013–2017
  • GMC Acadia: 2013–2016
  • Buick Enclave: 2013–2017
  • Cadillac SRX: 2012–2016

Why the LFX Engine is Perfect for an RX-8 Swap

The GM LFX engine offers excellent horsepower-to-weight ratio, proven reliability, affordability, and ease of tuning. Combined with aftermarket support from companies like Keisler Automation’s RX8 Totality LFX Swap Kit, the LFX swap provides RX-8 enthusiasts with reliable, high-performance results that retain the RX-8's iconic handling characteristics.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're just researching engine swaps or already in the middle of your project, understanding the technical details and vehicle applications of the GM LFX V6 is essential. Follow my personal RX-8 LFX swap journey here at Weekend Wrencher, articles start here --> RX-8 Shinka build

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