Chevy Is Putting the LS6 V8 Engine in the Base Corvette

A Bigger Story Hiding Behind the Headlines

Chevrolet’s latest update brings Grand Sport and Grand Sport X badges back to the C8, the first time these names have appeared on a mid-engine Corvette. That’s what most people noticed right away.

But tucked into the official announcement is a bigger change. The standard Corvette Stingray is set to replace its familiar LT2 V8 with a new LS6 engine. This isn’t just a minor update – it’s a change that will reset expectations for what a base Corvette offers.

Chevrolet is rolling out the new V8 sooner than most expected, making it the standard engine for much of the lineup.

The New LS6 V8: More Than Just Extra Displacement

The heart of the update is a 6.7-liter LS6 V8, the next step for Corvette’s powertrain. Output jumps to 535 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque, just like in the Grand Sport, a clear step up from the LT2’s 495 hp.

But it’s not just about headline figures. The bigger 6.7-liter displacement and high 13.0:1 compression ratio are meant to give the engine more punch throughout the rev range. Chevrolet also improved airflow with a larger throttle body and a tunnel-ram intake, helping the engine breathe more freely.

Inside, the upgrades focus on both strength and performance. Forged pistons and rods, plus a new lubrication system, are built to handle hard driving. The exhaust manifolds have also been updated to help the engine manage heat and stress over long runs.

The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission stays, keeping the C8’s fast-shifting feel. The new V8 will be built at GM’s Flint Engine Operations, connecting this generation to Corvette’s roots.

More Than an Engine Swap

The 2027 Stingray isn’t just about a new engine. Chevrolet has borrowed features from higher-performance models and brought them into the standard car.

Magnetic Ride Control has been retuned for better body control. The Z51 Performance Package now uses a shorter final drive for quicker acceleration. Aerodynamic changes and new Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires are aimed at giving the car more grip and sharper track performance. There are also smaller updates, like a center-exit exhaust – something new for the mid-engine Stingray.

Pricing is still under wraps, but it’s likely to go up. The 2026 Stingray starts at about $70,000 and can top $78,000 with the Z51 package. With the new engine and extra performance gear, the 2027 version will probably land higher.

The Grand Sport will reach US showrooms this summer, with the Grand Sport X close behind. The updated Stingray is set to follow, giving Chevrolet a chance to set a new performance baseline.