While technically a small-block engine because of its bore spacing of 4.4 inches,[1][2] General Motors engineers do not consider it to be a part of the traditional Chevrolet small block lineage because of the substantial reworking, specialized development, and unique technical features distinguishing its design.

This is notable due to the additional vibrations inherent to this architecture compared to a crossplane V8, which tend to scale up with displacement.

[2] Other notable features include a cast aluminum block, dual coil valve springs supporting titanium intake & sodium filled exhaust valves, forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, active split intake manifold with twin 87mm throttle bodies, four-into-two-into-one stainless steel exhaust headers, and a factory six-stage 10-quart dry sump oiling system with individual crank bay scavenging.

The dry-sump oil system carries the same eight quarts as the LT6, although there is an additional seventh scavenge stage in the ZR1 to keep the turbos lubricated.

Other features specific to the LT7 include turbo-integrated exhaust manifolds, water-to-air intercoolers, and an electrically actuated wastegate.