A new high output supercharged Northstar DOHC 4.4L V8 engine has been developed for new “V” series Cadillac performance models. The new engine combines the highest power rating of any production Cadillac engine to date with operating refinement uncommon at this power level.
The new engine incorporates a high capacity airflow system including a unique GM Powertrain (GMPT) patented supercharger. The design integrates the intake manifold and supercharger (SC) into a supercharger module (SCM) supplied with throttle body (TB) and intercoolers (IC).
The new engine architecture is based on the naturally aspirated (NA) rear wheel drive (RWD) engine released in 2004, but has been specifically designed and upgraded from the NA version for the greater structural and thermal loads that result from supercharging. Technologies specific to this supercharged engine version include a precision sand cast aluminum block, multi-layer steel (MLS) head gaskets, heavy-duty pistons and connecting rods, a piston cooling system, and specially polished exhaust ports. This new design results in exceptional performance over the entire operating range coupled with uncommon operating refinement.
Simultaneous engineering and extensive use of math-based 3D design and analysis enabled a short development time and minimized the amount of development hardware required, while ensuring the highest reliability for the new engine.
The new engine will be manufactured at the all-new GM Powertrain Performance Build Center in Wixom, MI.