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 engineered for maximum power output and thermal stability under extreme conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic control and high-flow catalytic converters, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards.
One documented concern is potential heat soak in the intercooler system during prolonged track use, addressed in GM Service Bulletin 19-NA-107. This is attributed to the immense thermal load generated by the 2.65L supercharger under sustained high boost. GM provided revised calibration and recommended track-day cooling procedures to mitigate power reduction.
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 supercharged power delivery provides explosive acceleration but demands premium unleaded fuel (minimum 93 octane) to prevent detonation. GM Dexos1 Gen 3 5W-30 oil is mandatory for protecting bearings and the supercharger under extreme loads. Track use requires strict adherence to cooldown procedures to prevent intercooler heat soak and subsequent power loss, as outlined in GM SIB 19-NA-107. The dry-sump system is robust but requires specific procedures for oil level checks. Engine modifications are complex due to integrated calibration; any changes should be performed by certified technicians.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 3 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 19-NA-107). API SP/ILSAC GF-6A is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Meets U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards only (EPA Cert. LT5-V8-19). Not homologated for EU or UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 715 PS output requires 93+ octane fuel (GM TIS Doc. LT5-003).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LT5-001, LT5-003, SIB 19-NA-107
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Engine Family Certification LT5-V8-19
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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 is found only in the C7 Corvette ZR1. Locate the engine code stamped on a machined pad at the front of the engine block, passenger side (GM TIS Doc. LT5-001). The 8th VIN digit is 'J' for LT5 engines. Visually, it is unmistakable: a massive supercharger assembly dominates the top of the engine, with prominent intercooler end tanks and dual fuel rails visible. Critical differentiation from LT4: LT5 uses a larger 2.65L Eaton TVS R2650 supercharger (vs. 1.7L on LT4) and has a unique intake manifold with integrated charge coolers. ECM calibrations are specific to the ZR1 and are not interchangeable.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LT5.
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