(September 19, 2011) MILFORD, Mich. — Chevrolet today revealed details of the all-new Ecotec 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. More efficient, refined and powerful than its predecessor, the new power plant will be the standard engine in the 2013 Malibu.

The 2.-5 liter is expected to deliver an estimated 190 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of torque  — about 12 percent more horsepower and 16 percent more torque than the current Ecotec 2.4-liter, while offering estimated highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg (final fuel economy numbers are pending).

The new 2.5-liter will be available next summer, marking the debut of the all-new Ecotec engine family. Increased efficiency was the top development priority, achieved in part through lower engine friction. It was reduced by an average of 16 percent across the entire speed range, using new technologies such as a variable-displacement oil pump and an actively controlled thermostat.

The new combustion system features improved knock resistance and higher-flowing intake and exhaust ports in the cylinder head, which help increase efficiency, power and torque. The new Ecotec also has increased-authority cam phasing to minimize any compromise between efficiency, performance, emissions and drivability.

Like the current generation of technically advanced Ecotec engines, the new 2.5-liter also features a high-pressure, direct-injection fuel system, dual overhead camshafts with continuously variable valve timing, electronic throttle control and pistons with jet-spray oil cooling.

It is also expected to be one of the quietest and most refined engines in the segment.

“The noise intensity is 40 percent less than our 2.4-liter direct-injected engine, which was named one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines,” said Mike Anderson, global chief engineer. “Engineers also tuned the 2.5-liter to deliver more of its torque at lower rpm, giving the Malibu a stronger feel at launch and during on-demand maneuvers, such as passing or accelerating on a freeway entrance ramp.”

The new Malibu will be sold in nearly 100 countries on six continents.