For the 2016 model year, Cadillac introduced the LF4 engine, a more powerful and fuel-efficient variant of the LF3. The LF4 retained the same displacement and was used in the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V sedan and coupe, making them the first-ever Cadillac V-series models with twin-turbo engines. It had 464 horsepower and 444 lb-ft of torque, sending it to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. This impressive performance enabled the Cadillac ATS-V to dash from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and get to a top speed of 184 mph.
In addition to its performance increase, the LF4 matched the fuel economy figures of the LF3 in the 2014 Cadillac XTS Vsport, managing an EPA rating of 16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. Cadillac outfitted the LF4 with unique features like a low-volume charge air cooler, titanium connecting rods, and low-inertia titanium aluminide turbines. These features helped with power delivery, providing around 90% peak torque from 2,400 to 6,000 rpm. Cadillac’s use of low-inertia turbines helped the twin turbochargers offer precise and responsive torque by minimizing the rotating inertia load by 51%.
All these improvements helped the LF4 outperform rivals like the 2016 BMW M3, which boasted a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. GM also produced a racing version of the LF4 engine, the LF4.R. The engine powered the ATS-V.R, featuring larger turbochargers, a side-exiting exhaust, and increased capacity intercoolers, resulting in an impressive 600 horsepower.
