The C6 Corvette, which debuted in the 2005 model year with the 6.0L LS2 engine (400 horsepower), received an upgrade for the 2008 model year, to the new 6.2L LS3 engine.

The new LS3 packs 430hp and features improvements such as a .06 inch increase in bore diameter, contributing to the added .2 liters of displacement. Other features include the LS7-style cylinder heads discussed below, a new intake manifold manufactured with a "lost-core" casting technique, larger 55mm intake valves with hollow stems to reduce valvetrain mass, and LS7 fuel injectors. An optional exhaust package, which features the bypass-style Z06 mufflers, adds an additional 7hp to the LS3.

The C6 Corvette

The LS3 is based off the L92 truck motor that debuted in the 2006 Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Tahoe. The LS3's cylinder heads are very similar to the 7.0L LS7 heads found on the 505 horsepower Z06 Corvette, except they are designed for smaller cylinder bores. In addition to the heads, the LS3 included a cam phaser, which allows variable valve timing to maximize horsepower while not sacrificing low end torque or economy.

For now, the LS3 does not receive Active Fuel Management, the cylinder deactivation technology that is used in the L92 to inrease higway fuel economy 10%. Many enthusiasts have been concerned the Corvette will sound like a four-cylinder when AFM is engaged.