2018 Corvette May Get LT5 DOHC V8

Is DOHC the Way of the Future in the LT5?

When it comes to engine design, General Motors often favors reliability and longevity over technology. They adopt a “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach to engine design. It’s why they can make so much power, while being fuel efficient, running engines virtually unchanged since dinosaurs roamed the Earth. It seems that might be changing in Corvette land.

Signs are pointing to the introduction of a DOHC V8 engine for 2018. The only time a DOHC (dual overhead cam) V8 was ever used was in the 4th-generation Corvette ZR-1. So they’ve done it, they just don’t do it regularly.

Coded as a LT5 on internal documents, wearing the “Y” designation for Corvette, is a “ENGINE GAS CYL, 6.2L, SIDI, DOHC, VVT, ALUM, GM.” These documents, obtained by GM Authority, seem to officially confirm the new engine.

Interestingly, the LT1 and LT1 V8s are still listed on the 2018 document. That means it’s likely that those engines will stick around, and this engine will be an addition to the lineup. What could that addition be?

Obviously the new ZR-1 comes to mind. The supercharged LT4 might be at the limits of what Chevrolet wants to get out of the setup in terms of power and they want something capable of handling more grunt in ZR-1. Updated engine architecture could be one way to get there.

Also, if they were going to push a lot of boost into one of their V8s, this new setup might be better resistant to the overheating issues that have plagued the Z06.

What About the Mid-Engine Corvette?

Of course there’s also the mid-engine Corvette. While I’m personally of the belief of believing it when I see it, it does appear that the mythical Zora is coming. It’s going to need a bespoke engine when it gets here. The LT5 could be part of that equation.

We should also not rule out the possibility of the LT5 as a replacement for the other engines in the future, especially if they’re more fuel-efficient.

Leaked documents can also change by the time vehicles enter production, so while the rumors seem credible it’s always wise to take this news with a grain of salt.