The end of the LS9 marks the disappearance of one of the most recognizable engines from GM’s modern small-block lineup. Chevrolet has labeled the LS9 Long Block crate motor as “Discontinued” on its official crate engines page.
For years, the LS9 occupied a unique place among Chevrolet Performance offerings. The engine became popular not only among Corvette fans, but also with restomod builders, aftermarket tuners, and a handful of low-volume manufacturers looking for high-output V8 power.
The LS9 Helped Define Chevrolet’s Modern Performance Era
Chevrolet introduced the LS9 in the C6 Corvette ZR1, where the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 delivered 638 horsepower. The engine featured titanium connecting rods, a cast aluminum block, and a forged rotating assembly, characteristics that helped establish its reputation among performance enthusiasts.
According to Motor1, the LS9 remained in circulation for nearly a decade as a crate engine after its original production application. Builders frequently selected it for custom projects because of its factory-backed reliability and high-output configuration.
The engine also appeared outside Chevrolet-branded vehicles. Australia’s HSV GTSR W1 used the LS9, while Detroit-based Equus installed it in the Bass 770, a low-production performance coupe that blended retro styling with modern hardware.
Chevrolet Confirms the End of the LS9 Crate Motor
The discontinuation became visible through Chevrolet’s own consumer-facing crate engine catalog. As reported by Corvette Blogger, the LS9 listing now carries a clear “Discontinued” label.
The move closes a long chapter for Chevrolet Performance, which still offers several crate engines but currently lacks another option matching the LS9’s output. The engine had developed a strong following in the aftermarket world, especially among home builders and restoration specialists seeking factory-engineered supercharged performance.
The LS family itself has remained unusually durable in the automotive industry. Chevrolet’s small-block V8 architecture has existed for more than 70 years, surviving multiple generations of performance and truck applications.
Chevrolet Teases a New V8 Project After the LS9’s Retirement
At nearly the same time the LS9 disappeared from Chevrolet’s catalog, Chevrolet Performance published a teaser image on Instagram hinting at “something BIG.” The image showed a close-up view of an engine with visible hoses, connectors, and a Chevrolet logo, though few details were revealed.
The layout resembled a modern pushrod V8 configuration. The teaser also arrives shortly after GM announced a major investment tied to future small-block development.
Earlier this year, GM invested $888 million into its Tonawanda Propulsion Plant to support development of next-generation small-block V8 engines. Those future engines are intended for upcoming GM pickup trucks, while the automaker has also reaffirmed its commitment to V8-powered vehicles.
