The VE Commodore 3.0L SIDI V6: A Compact Powerhouse
The Holden VE Commodore, a popular model from the iconic Australian automaker, is known for its powerful and efficient engine options. One such option that stands out is the three litre V6 LF1 SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) V6 engine. Not since the VL did a Commodore come with an engine option of three litre capacity.
From 2010 to 2014, the LF1 model, equipped with spark ignition direct injection (SIDI) and a compression ratio of 11.7:1, was produced. This version featured a 3.0 litre (2,994 cc) engine with a bore and stroke measuring 89 mm x 80.3 mm (3.50 in x 3.16 in).
Introduced as part of GM’s High Feature engine family, the LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 engine first appeared in the second iteration of the VE Commodore, both in sedan and Sportwagon body styles. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, this compact powerhouse offered an impressive blend of power and fuel efficiency.
The LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 engine utilizes advanced technologies to deliver its performance. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design and variable valve timing (VVT), which help optimize power delivery across a wide rpm range. Furthermore, the SIDI system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to enhanced performance and fuel economy.
In terms of power output, the LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 engine offers robust performance. While specific power figures can vary depending on the specific model and year, this engine generally delivers strong acceleration and responsive performance, making it well-suited to both city driving and highway cruising.
SIDI Fuel Efficiency
One of the key selling points of the LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 engine is its fuel efficiency. Thanks to the SIDI system, this engine can optimize fuel delivery based on driving conditions, helping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. This makes the LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 a more environmentally friendly choice compared to traditional gasoline engines.
However, it’s worth noting that the LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 engine has been phased out in favor of more economical turbocharged 4-cylinder engines. Despite this, the LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and anyone looking for a robust, efficient engine for their VE Commodore.
The VE Commodore 3.0L V6 LF1 3.0L SIDI V6 engine stands as a testament to Holden’s commitment to delivering powerful, efficient, and reliable engines. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the open highway, this engine is designed to deliver.
LT1 3 Litre V6: A GM Global Engine Option
The LF1 is a 3.0 litre engine, and it’s one of the global engines developed by General Motors.
In this engine, fuel is directly delivered to the combustion chamber during the intake stroke with the fuel injectors located beneath the intake ports.
Unlike traditional fuel-injected engines, direct injection demands higher fuel pressure. Therefore, a high-pressure fuel pump driven by the engine is utilized to provide up to 1740 psi (120 bar) of pressure. The system modulates the fuel pressure based on requirements – lower at idle, around 508 psi (35 bar), and higher during wide-open throttle. This high-pressure pump works in tandem with a standard fuel pump located in the tank.
Constructed from A319 aluminum alloy, the V6 VVT’s engine block and cylinder heads are robust and lightweight. The sand mould cast block boasts strong cast-in iron bore liners, six-bolt main caps, and inter-bay breather vents.
The engine’s high output and smooth operation are attributed to a four-valves-per-cylinder inverted tooth chain cam drive. This design extends the engagement period between the sprocket and chain, spreading the initial impact force over a longer duration, thereby reducing noise.
The engine management system in the V6 VVT is a cutting-edge torque-based system, an upgrade from the previous throttle-based systems that relied solely on the throttle position sensor for the electronic throttle control (ETC).
This innovative strategy computes the optimal throttle position, the positioning of the intake plenum plate, cam phasing positions, and other operational parameters. It then converts this data into an ideal throttle position and engine output, based on the driver’s use of the gas pedal.
3.0L LF1 SIDI V6 Specifications
- Displacement (cu in / cc): 183 / 2994
- Bore x stroke (in / mm): 3.50 x 3.16 in / 89 x 80.3
- Block material: A319 aluminum with cast iron liners
- Cylinder head material: A319 aluminum
- Valvetrain: DOHC, four valves per cylinder
- Ignition system: coil-on-plug
- Fuel delivery: high-pressure direct injection
- Compression ratio: 11.7:1
- Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 265 / 198 @ 6950
- Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 223 / 302 @ 5100
- Recommended fuel: regular unleaded
- Max engine speed (fuel cut-off): 7000 rpm
- Emissions controls: dual close-coupled catalysts and single underfloor catalyst; variable valve timing, evaporative system
- Maximum power: 210 kW @ 6400 rpm
- Maximum torque: 350 Nm @ 2900 rpm
Read more about the VE Commodore engine variants