A few days ago, our spy photographers snapped several shots of the next generation Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 testing on the Nurburgring. A couple of days later, we were treated to a video showing that same test mule smacking into the track's wall. Today, Motor Trend has all but officially confirmed the new Z/28's engine: that wonderful naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V8. Yep, the (nearly) same V8 found in the current Z/28. Obviously GM officials haven't confirmed anything just yet, a few sources have hinted to the engine's return.

MT, however, has gone a step further and, with simple common sense, came up with five reasons why GM is not only sticking with this engine, but also upgrading it for even more bonkers performance numbers. 1. The LS7 V8 is still in production and can even be bought on its own for $16,500. Why get rid of a good thing too soon? In fact, why not make it better? See #3. 2. A GM source told MT the LS7 will appear in a future Chevy product. Could it be the Corvette? Possibly, but the Z06 already has the mighty LT4; is there really a need for the LS7 here?

3. It's actually pretty easy to increase the LS7's output. Currently rated at 505 hp, all that really needs to happen is add direct-injection, a revised cylinder head, and an improved cam. That should translate to an additional 50 ponies or so. 4. The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350. Remember, it has that 5.2-liter flat-plane crank V8 with 526 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. Chevy needs to (and knows how to, see above) surpass that. 5. Because of the expected upgrades leading to a higher output, MT predicts the LS7 will be renamed the LT7. Everything will be made official when the new Camaro Z/28 will likely debut at Detroit next January.