[Scotsman]

The sound of this doesn't bother me one bit, because truth is if you want a V8 you'll always be able to buy one from GM or some aftermarket supplier elsewhere. It's time to shape up and get with the times. Period.

FLINT, Michigan — General Motors laid out its small-four-cylinder engine strategy on Thursday, effectively signaling the end of an era for thirsty, Detroit-made V8s. The automaker said it will double its global production of small four-cylinder engines in the 1.0-to-1.4-liter range by 2011, with a linchpin in the offensive being the new 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbo engine that will power the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.

Estimated output ratings for the 1.4-liter turbo will be 140 horsepower with a torque rating of 148 pound-feet, GM said in a statement.

A non-turbo 1.4-liter variant "will serve as a secondary energy source for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt," GM added. When the Volt's battery energy is depleted, the 1.4-liter engine kicks in.

"[The] new engine reinforces GM's commitment to replacing larger-displacement engines with more compact, advanced four-cylinder engines that optimize performance and fuel savings," GM said.

GM seemed anxious to reassure consumers that they won't be giving up a lot as the automaker turns toward small engines in an ongoing fight for its survival in an era of soaring gas prices.

"Because of the turbocharger's on-demand power and responsiveness, it's like having two engines in the same vehicle — one for power and one for fuel economy," said Tom Stephens, GM Global Powertrain and Global Quality executive vice president.

GM said it will introduce the 1.4-liter turbo in the U.S. in two additional, unspecified GM models in 2011.

The powertrain announcement also held out the hope of revitalizing Flint, Michigan, an old GM town that has fallen on hard times. GM said it will invest $370 million in the U.S. to build a new manufacturing plant here for its global four-cylinder engines. Production will kick off in 2010, and the plant will be the "exclusive" manufacturing facility in North America to build the Chevy Volt's engine.

What this means to you: V8s are going the way of the dinosaur. There's likely to be a peppy four-cylinder in your future GM vehicle. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ticleId=132208