The LS3-powered Camaro SS was produced for model years 2010 through 2015. In those years, manual-transmission Camaros used the LS3 6.2-liter V8, while automatic versions used the slightly different L99 variant. Starting with the 2016 redesign, Camaros moved to the LT1 engine family, and the LS3 was no longer used in the Camaro lineup.
Understanding this question requires a look at how GM’s small-block family was assigned to Camaro generations. The LS3 is a 6.2-liter V8 from GM’s LS family, renowned for its pushrod setup and 426-horsepower output in the Camaro SS of that era. The fifth generation (2010–2015) introduced the LS3 in most performance Camaros, with the L99 variant chosen for automatics to enable cylinder deactivation (AFM) and other efficiency features. The sixth generation, beginning in 2016, adopted a newer LT1 6.2L engine, ending LS3 usage in Camaros.
LS3 availability by model year
Below is a concise list of Camaro SS years when the LS3 engine was the standard powertrain for manual-transmission models. The automatic-transmission cars used a related engine variant (L99) during the same years.
- 2010 Camaro SS — LS3 (manual); L99 (automatic)
- 2011 Camaro SS — LS3 (manual); L99 (automatic)
- 2012 Camaro SS — LS3 (manual); L99 (automatic)
- 2013 Camaro SS — LS3 (manual); L99 (automatic)
- 2014 Camaro SS — LS3 (manual); L99 (automatic)
- 2015 Camaro SS — LS3 (manual); L99 (automatic)
Concluding: If you’re specifically after the LS3, target fifth-generation Camaro SS models from 2010 through 2015. For automatics in that window, you're typically looking at the L99 variant rather than the LS3.
How to verify LS3 ownership in a Camaro
To confirm a Camaro has the LS3 engine, use a few practical checks. The next list outlines reliable verification steps.
- Check the engine code on the valve cover or in the vehicle’s service documentation (LS3 is a 6.2L pushrod V8).
- Review the VIN/build sheet or window sticker to confirm the engine option (LS3 vs L99).
- Inspect horsepower/torque ratings and features (LS3 typically pairs with manual transmissions in the SS; AFM is present on L99).
With these checks, you can reliably determine whether a Camaro from the 2010–2015 range uses the LS3 engine or the L99 automatic variant.
Summary
In short, if you want an LS3 Camaro, focus on the fifth-generation Camaro SS from model years 2010–2015, noting that manual cars used LS3 while automatics used L99. Beginning in 2016, the Camaro lineup shifted to the LT1 engine, marking the end of LS3 usage in new Camaros.