The Chevrolet LS9 supercharged V8 crate engine, a legendary powerplant originally developed for the Corvette C6 ZR1, has been discontinued from the Chevy Performance catalog, according to multiple reports.
The 6.2-liter LS9 long-block delivered 638 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque straight from the factory. Its combination of reliability, simplicity, and the ability to rev near 7,000 rpm made it a top choice for tuners and custom-car builders.
Engine Specifications and Legacy
Under the hood, the LS9 was no slouch. It featured:
- Forged steel crankshaft
- Titanium connecting rods
- Forged aluminum pistons
- Titanium intake valves
- Sodium-filled exhaust valves
These components allowed the LS9 to compete with high-end European supercars in both performance and durability.
Future of Chevy’s Supercharged V8s
Chevy has not yet announced a direct replacement for the LS9 crate engine. However, the Chevy Performance Instagram recently teased enthusiasts with an image of a supercharged V8 installed in a truck engine bay, accompanied by the caption:
“Something BIG is coming.”
While the tease suggests a new supercharged V8 may be on the horizon, details remain scarce. The possibilities range from another supercharged crate engine to a supercharged version of the Silverado.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.