The Powerful And Frugal 2010 Pontiac Solstice 2.0-liter Turbo Engine

Pontiac's Solstice roadster and coupe ended production on July 29

, 2009. Leftover models have no powertrain changes for 2010.

The Solstice offers a choice of two ECOTEC four-cylinder engines: a normally aspirated 2.4-liter version for base models, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged version for GXP models. Both engines are all-aluminum, with 16 valves, chain-driven dual overhead camshafts, twin balance shafts, and variable valve timing.

The base Solstice's 2.4-liter LE5 engine has 173 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque. On paper, it compares well with other big fours, offering more horsepower than Toyota or Mitsubishi's 2.4-liter engines. Subjectively, critics complain that it is gruff, noisy, and slow to rev -- out of character for the sporty Solstice. Its fuel economy is also unimpressive; EPA ratings are 19/26 with manual transmission, 19/24 with automatic.

The Solstice GXP's 2.0-liter LNF engine shares the LE5's basic architecture, but it has a narrower bore and a shorter stroke, with thicker cylinder walls, deeper water jackets, and forged steel connecting rods and crankshaft for better durability. It is GM's first North American engine with Spark Ignition Direct Injection, which injects fuel directly into the combustion chambers for greater power, lower emissions, and better fuel economy. With up to 18 pounds of boost from its intercooled turbocharger, the LNF engine is rated at 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, giving it an excellent specific output of 130 horsepower per liter. Remarkably, many testers find it smoother and more eager to rev than the 2.4-liter engine. It returns better fuel economy, too; EPA estimates are 19/29 with manual transmission, 19/27 with automatic. GM recommends premium fuel for both engines.

Although Solstice production has ended, GM Performance Parts still offers a variety of heavy-duty equipment for its ECOTEC engines, including race-ready engine blocks, cylinder heads, intake manifolds, and camshafts.

by: RW Tanner

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