Chevrolet Brings New Crate Engines and Tuned Cars to SEMA

Chevrolet's SEMA exhibit this year focuses on new crate engines and tuned Camaros and Sonics. 

Chevrolet is offering a new LS3 crate engine with a custom camshaft that brings power up to 525hp and 489 lb.-ft. of torque. It is Chevy's most powerful crate engine that is based on a production engine. The new engine costs $8,937.50. The engine comes with the intake manifold, injectors, fuel rail and throttle body already installed, along with the water pump and ignition system. All of the other accessories must be bought separately. 

It is also offering new engine control units for its 5.3 liter V8 and LSA engines. The kits come with oxygen sensors, airflow meters, and wiring harnesses to allow buyers to drop either of these engines into their projects more easily. The kit for the 5.3 liter V8 costs $1,312.50 and 1,470 for the LSA kit. 

Chevrolet is also offering complete kits for the LS3 and LSA engines now that come complete with all of the engine control units and transmission. The kits both use four-speed automatic transmissions, and the kits come with a 24 month/50,000 mile warranty. Chevrolet did not give pricing details for these systems. 

Chevrolet is offering enthusiasts a unique experience by letting them help build their own LS7 or LS9 crate engine. For $22,756.10 for a LS7 or $32,050 for a LS9 buyers get to visit Chevrolet's Performance Build Center in Wixom, Michigan, to help build their engine from beginning to end. Buyers then get a unique plaque on their engine to record the event. 

Given that it is SEMA, every manufacturer also has to bring along some tuner cars, and Chevrolet was no different. It brought several Camaros tuned by Hot Wheels and other tuners. It also brought its new Sonic along to show what can be done with that car.