If you refer back to our story a few weeks ago regarding the LZ0 engine, you’ll see where the news dropped that we could foresee a new engine in the light-duty Silverado/Sierra trucks. Well, it is confirmed. Although the LM2 (3.0-liter) engine has been incredible, GM is facing new competition with the new, upcoming Ford Ranger.

We’ve heard testimonials all year from owners claiming 30-plus mpg, plenty of horsepower and torque, and a comfortable ride as a bonus. With a nearly perfect track record from consumers, no major recalls, and they are selling at a decent rate, what or why could GM want to do this? Even though it is currently only Australian-based, we believe this could be a new and improved engine that could outdo the Ford.

For those of you who are pulling serious loads, doing the gnarly work day in and day out, the larger, more powerful 6.6-liter Duramax powerplant is probably for you. But, for those who realize a 1500 diesel is sufficient, this could be your calling. Hold your horses on buying a 3.0-liter-powered Duramax. This new LZ0 engine is replacing the LM2 unit and will be the fourth option in the 1500 lineup.

The options are as follows:

• All-new 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
• 5.3-liter LS-based V8
• 6.2-liter LS-based V8
• LZ0 turbo diesel

The specifications for the LZ0 have not yet been released, but if Ford’s Ranger diesel has anything to do with it, one has to assume the output will at least be a challenger of that. Ford’s small-but-mighty 3.0-liter diesel engine for the Ranger cranks out 247 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The late 3.0-liter Duramax engine made 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft, to compare. This segment is growing swiftly, which will inevitably force the hands of most manufacturers.

The new LZ0 will have to compete with more than the Ranger, though. This market includes Jeep’s new Gladiator and RAM’s EcoDiesel engine. The 3.0-liter in the Gladiator and Wrangler makes 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque with an eight-speed transmission. The EcoDiesel has been around for several years and does get better mileage, but is a $5,000 option on the Gladiator or the RAM 1500.

Assuming the LZ0 is backed with a 10-speed transmission, will this be enough to draw consumers to buy? If it were you, are you leaning towards this new, upgraded engine or are you considering a different truck/engine combination offered in this segment?

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