For the 2020 model year GM introduced a brand-new turbocharged diesel engine in Silverado/Sierra 1500 pickups. The 6-cylinder 3.0L Duramax LM2 features an inline engine layout that has provided durability and longevity on many other diesel applications. Compared to a V6 design, this engine configuration takes up less space, provides better fuel efficiency and a smoother operation. One of the most noticeable attributes of this diesel engine was its impressive fuel mileage. The 3.0L Duramax-powered Silverado/Sierra 1500 delivered up to 33 mpg on 2WD applications and up to 29 mpg on 4WD applications. In 2021 the 3.0L Duramax was introduced in GM’s full-size SUV’s, including the Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Escalade. Introducing this fuel-efficient diesel engine in GM’s ½-ton applications provided consumers a better alternative to the gas-guzzling V8 engines.

The 3.0L Duramax LM2 engine block was constructed with a deep-skirt cast-aluminum alloy fitted with an aluminum head. Utilizing a cast-aluminum block reduced mass and also provided durability. This Duramax engine has a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with 4 valves per cylinder for a total of 24 valves. The rotating assembly within the 3.0L Duramax engine was designed to be lightweight and durable by employing hypereutectic aluminum pistons and forged-steel connecting rods. A unique feature of the 3.0L Duramax engine design was the use of Rear Cam Drive, which means the camshaft gear was located on the back of the engine towards the firewall. Like all other Duramax engines, the LM2 Duramax utilized a high-pressure common-rail fuel system. With two chain-driven pistons inside the injection pump, it was capable of producing up to 36,250 PSI of rail pressure. To handle that fuel rail pressure were solenoid style fuel injectors that utilized 9-hole nozzles that produced a precise fuel spray that led to less noise and smooth idling. Fitted to the 3.0L Duramax LM2 was a Holset variable-geometry turbocharger that was liquid cooled and featured an exhaust brake to assist in hauling heavy loads. A water-to-air intercooler was added to this Duramax that provided cooler and denser air for a cleaner and more efficient combustion process.

The stock 2020-2022 3.0L Duramax LM2 engine was rated at 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. GM Silverado/Sierra 1500 pickups with this engine had a maximum towing capacity of 9,500 lbs. and SUVs had an 8,200 lbs. maximum capacity. The feature that made the 3.0L Duramax the better option for towing was the ability to reach 95% peak torque at 1,250 RPMs and maintain it until about 3,000 RPMs, which provided superior fuel economy while towing. Paired with this Duramax engine was the 10L80 Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission. Whether you need stock replacement or performance parts for your 3.0L Duramax LM2, Cyberpunk Diesel has you covered. Check out parts from hundreds of the top manufacturers to find everything your GM Silverado/Sierra 1500 needs. Cyberpunk Diesel has a wide selection of custom parts from Lighting Accessories to Exhaust Systems so you can make your truck one-of-a-kind. Keep your 2020-2022 GM 3.0L Duramax LM2 performing its best with parts and accessories from Cyberpunk Diesel.