The GM LT5 is a 6,162 cc, 90° V8 supercharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It features a dual — fuel system (direct and port injection), forged internals, and an Eaton supercharger with an air — to — liquid intercooler, delivering extreme power for track — focused performance. Its Gen V small — block architecture incorporates a dry — sump oiling system for sustained high — G cornering.
Fitted exclusively to the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (C7), the LT5 was engineer…
Production years 2019–2024 meet U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards; not certified for Euro markets (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable).
The GM LT5 is a 6,162 cc 90° V8 supercharged petrol engine engineered for the ultimate Corvette performance variant (2019-2024). It combines a massive Eaton TVS R2650 supercharger with direct and port fuel injection to deliver brutal, sustained acceleration. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards, it prioritizes maximum power output and track-day durability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Supercharged | |
Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 522 kW (715 PS) | |
Torque | 881 Nm @ 5,150 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct and Port Fuel Injection (DPI) | |
Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual radiators | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | GM Dexos1 Gen 3 5W-30 | |
Dry weight | 227 kg |
The GM LT5 was used exclusively in the Corvette C7 ZR1 with longitudinal rear-mid-engine mounting. This engine received no platform adaptations for other models and was succeeded by the naturally aspirated flat-plane crank LT6 in the C8 Z06, creating absolute interchange limits. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The LT5's primary reliability consideration is thermal management under extreme track use. GM internal testing confirmed that without proper cooldown, intercooler efficiency drops, triggering protective power reduction. While not a mechanical failure, this is a documented operational limitation. Sustained high boost and RPM make adherence to oil and fuel specifications critical for long-term component life.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2019-2024) and aggregated performance diagnostic data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LT5 is engineered for extreme performance and is robust when maintained correctly. Its forged internals and dry-sump system are designed for track abuse. The main considerations are managing heat soak on track and adhering strictly to oil and fuel specifications. With proper care and adherence to GM's maintenance and cooldown procedures, the LT5 is a very reliable high-performance engine.
The most frequently discussed issues are intercooler heat soak during track use (an operational characteristic, not a failure), supercharger belt wear, and potential fuel injector clogging in the dual-injection system. Oil consumption, while within GM's specified limits, can be higher than typical street engines. These are all well-documented in GM service information.
The LT5 was used exclusively in one model: the Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1, for model years 2019 through 2024. It was available in both coupe and convertible body styles. It was never installed in any other GM vehicle, including other Corvette trims like the Z06 or Grand Sport, which used the LT4 engine.
Yes, but it's complex. The LT5 responds well to ECU tuning, which can unlock more power by adjusting boost, timing, and fuel maps. Bolt-on modifications like a larger pulley for the supercharger can also yield significant gains. However, pushing beyond stock levels requires supporting modifications (fuel system, cooling) and carries increased risk. Professional tuning on a dyno is highly recommended due to the engine's complexity and cost.
Fuel economy is not a priority for the LT5. In combined driving, expect around 12 mpg (US) city and 20 mpg (US) highway. Under spirited driving or track conditions, consumption can easily drop below 10 mpg (US). The EPA rating for the C7 ZR1 is approximately 15 mpg (US) combined. Its thirst is a direct result of its 755 horsepower output.
Yes. The GM LT5, like all modern pushrod V8s, is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail, pistons would contact valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. However, the timing chain system in the LT5 is extremely robust and not a common failure point.
GM mandates the use of Dexos1 Gen 3 5W-30 specification oil. This is non-negotiable for protecting the engine, supercharger, and dry-sump system under extreme conditions. Using a high-quality synthetic Dexos1 Gen 3 oil is essential. Oil change intervals should be strictly adhered to, and oil levels should be checked frequently, especially before track use.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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