What Vehicles Have Ls Engines

The LS engine family, produced by General Motors, is a series of high-performance V8 engines that have become legendary for their power, reliability, and versatility. Found in a wide range of vehicles, from sports cars to trucks, the LS engine is a favorite among enthusiasts and tuners alike. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what vehicles have LS engines, helping you identify potential candidates for your next project or simply expand your automotive knowledge.

Identifying Vehicles with LS Engines: A Comprehensive Guide

The LS engine family encompasses several variations, each with its own specific characteristics and applications. Understanding the different LS engine variants is crucial for identifying which vehicles utilize them. Key differences include displacement (measured in liters), material composition (iron vs. aluminum blocks), and intended application (performance vs. fuel efficiency). The LS family primarily consists of the Gen III and Gen IV small-block V8 engines.

General Motors Cars with LS Engines

The most common place to find LS engines is, unsurprisingly, in GM vehicles. These engines have powered some of the most iconic and beloved cars on the road.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet has extensively used LS engines across various models, cementing the engine's place in automotive history.

Chevrolet Corvette (C5, C6, C7): The Corvette is practically synonymous with the LS engine. From the C5 generation (1997-2004) with the LS1, LS6 to the C6 (2005-2013) with the LS2, LS3, LS7, and LS9, and even the early C7 models (2014-2019) including the LS1 in the base model, the Corvette has been a primary platform for LS engine development and deployment. The Corvette Z06 with the LS7 is particularly sought after for its high-revving nature and track performance.
Chevrolet Camaro (4th Gen, 5th Gen): The Camaro, Chevy's iconic muscle car, also benefitted from the LS engine. The fourth-generation Camaro (1998-2002) received the LS1, while the fifth-generation (2010-2015) boasted the LS3 and L99. The LS3 equipped Camaros offer exceptional performance and are relatively affordable on the used market.
Chevrolet SSR: This unique retro-styled pickup truck featured the LS2 V8 engine in its later years, providing a surprising amount of power for its quirky design.
Chevrolet Caprice PPV (Police Patrol Vehicle): From 2011-2017, this police vehicle featured the L77, an LS variant with Active Fuel Management (AFM) designed for fuel efficiency while still delivering respectable power.
Chevrolet Pontiac G8 GT: While badged as a Pontiac, the G8 GT was a Holden Commodore import. This rear-wheel drive sedan featured the potent LS3.

Pontiac

Before its demise, Pontiac also offered a few models equipped with LS engines.

Pontiac GTO (2004-2006): The revived Pontiac GTO featured the LS1 and later the LS2, providing a significant performance boost over previous generations.
Pontiac Firebird Trans Am (1998-2002): Similar to the Camaro, the fourth-generation Firebird Trans Am received the LS1, making it a highly desirable performance car.

Cadillac

Cadillac leveraged LS engines to elevate the performance of its luxury vehicles.

Cadillac CTS-V (1st Gen, 2nd Gen): The Cadillac CTS-V, particularly the second generation, is renowned for its performance capabilities. It featured the LSA (supercharged LS3 variant) which delivered impressive horsepower and torque.
Cadillac XLR-V: This luxury roadster also received the supercharged Northstar V8, but later featured the supercharged LS variant, providing it with a significant performance upgrade.

General Motors Trucks and SUVs with LS Engines

LS engines aren't limited to cars. They are also found in many of GM's trucks and SUVs, offering robust power for towing and hauling.

Chevrolet and GMC Trucks and SUVs

GM’s full-size trucks and SUVs offered a wide range of LS-based engines, depending on the year and model.

Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra (1999-2013): These full-size pickups have been available with various LS engines, including the 4.8L LR4, 5.3L LM7, L33, and LMG, 6.0L LQ4 and LQ9, and the 6.2L L92 and L9H. The LQ4 and LQ9, found in the heavy-duty models, are known for their durability and suitability for forced induction.
Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon (2000-2014): These full-size SUVs also shared similar LS engine options as the Silverado and Sierra, providing ample power for family hauling and towing.
Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL (2000-2014): The extended-length SUVs also utilized the same range of LS engines as the Tahoe/Yukon and Silverado/Sierra.
Chevrolet Avalanche (2002-2013): The Avalanche, with its unique midgate design, was also available with several LS engine options.
Hummer H2 (2003-2009): The Hummer H2 featured the 6.0L LQ4 and later the 6.2L L92, providing the necessary power for off-road adventures and towing.

Holden Vehicles with LS Engines (Australia)

Holden, GM's Australian subsidiary, extensively used LS engines in its vehicles.

Holden Commodore (VE, VF): The Holden Commodore, a popular rear-wheel-drive sedan, was available with various LS engines, including the LS2, LS3, and L77. These vehicles are highly sought after by enthusiasts and often imported into other countries.
Holden Ute (VE, VF): The Holden Ute, a unique pickup truck variant of the Commodore, also featured LS engines.
Holden Monaro (V2, VZ): The Monaro coupe also benefited from the LS engine family.

Identifying Specific LS Engine Variants

While knowing that a vehicle has an "LS engine" is a good start, identifying the specific variant is crucial for performance tuning, repairs, and upgrades. Here are a few ways to identify LS engines:

Engine Code: The engine code is typically stamped on the engine block, usually on the front passenger side. This code will tell you the specific engine variant.
VIN Number: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains information about the vehicle, including the engine type. You can use a VIN decoder to determine the specific LS engine.
Visual Inspection: Certain visual cues, such as the intake manifold design, cylinder head casting numbers, and throttle body type, can help differentiate between LS engine variants.

Why LS Engines Are So Popular

The LS engine's popularity stems from a combination of factors:

Performance: LS engines are known for their impressive horsepower and torque output, making them ideal for performance applications.
Reliability: They are generally reliable engines, capable of withstanding significant abuse and mileage.
Aftermarket Support: The LS engine enjoys extensive aftermarket support, with a vast array of performance parts and upgrades available.
Affordability: Used LS engines can be found at relatively affordable prices, making them a popular choice for engine swaps and projects.
Versatility: Their compact size and relative simplicity allow for installation in a wide range of vehicles, making them adaptable for various projects.

Conclusion

The LS engine is a true automotive icon, powering a wide range of vehicles and earning a dedicated following. From high-performance sports cars to robust trucks and SUVs, the LS engine's versatility and performance have made it a favorite among enthusiasts and professionals alike. Understanding which vehicles have LS engines and knowing how to identify specific variants will help you navigate the world of LS engines and make informed decisions for your next automotive project. Whether you're looking for a powerful project engine or just expanding your car knowledge, the LS engine has cemented its place in automotive history. Remember to verify the engine code for accurate identification, as models and availability can vary based on year and region.