L86 Engine 

Specifications

The GM L86 engine is a 6.2L Gen 5 EcoTec3 all-aluminum V8 engine engineered to deliver a blend of high performance, efficiency, and durability for GM trucks and SUVs. With an output of approximately 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, it offers strong low-end and mid-range power, making it well suited for towing, hauling, and confident highway driving. The L86 features advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection for precise fuel delivery, variable valve timing for optimized power across the rev range, and Active Fuel Management, which seamlessly deactivates cylinders under light load to improve fuel efficiency. 

A high 11.5:1 compression ratio, along with a variable displacement oil pump, enhances combustion efficiency and reduces parasitic losses.  Designed to meet modern emissions standards while retaining the robust character of a 6.2L V8, the L86 delivers smooth operation, reliability, and the capability expected from a premium GM powertrain.      

Engine Variants

L86 6.2L V8

The L86 engine is a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated Gen V small-block V8 used in GM full-size trucks and SUVs. It features an aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and Active Fuel Management (AFM). The engine produces 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, tuned for strong low-end pulling power. It uses a vacuum pump to support brake assist under heavy loads and is optimized for towing, durability, and efficiency. 

L87 6.2L V8

The L87 is an evolution of the L86 engine, retaining the same 6.2L displacement, aluminum construction, direct injection, and VVT, but replacing AFM with Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) for smoother cylinder deactivation. Output remains 420 hp and 460 lb-ft, with internal refinements, improved efficiency, and minor packaging updates. It continues to use a vacuum pump and is found in newer-generation GM trucks and SUVs. 

LT1 6.2L V8

The LT1 is the performance-oriented counterpart found in vehicles like the Corvette Stingray and Camaro SS. It shares the same Gen V architecture but is tuned for higher RPM operation and sharper throttle response. Producing 455–460 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque, it uses a performance intake manifold, aggressive calibration, and relies on manifold vacuum instead of a vacuum pump. The LT1 prioritizes power delivery, responsiveness, and track-capable performance over towing.

LT4 6.2L Supercharged V8 (High Performance)

The LT4 is a supercharged version of this platform, built for extreme performance applications such as the Corvette Z06 and Camaro ZL1. It features an Eaton TVS supercharger, forged pistons and rods, strengthened internals, higher-flow cylinder heads, and a more aggressive camshaft. Output jumps to 650 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, making it one of GM’s most powerful production small-block V8s, designed to withstand sustained high-boost and track use.   

Frequently Asked Questions