Layered LiV3O8 as promising cathode material for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries has been efficiently synthesized by an improved spray-drying method followed by heating at different temperatures. Results of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, charge–discharge test, cyclic voltammogram and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicate that the sample heat-treated at 300°C shows the best electrochemical performance. The LiV3O8 obtained at 300°C displays a maximum discharge capacity of 338.9mAhg−1 at current density of 25mAg−1 and after 20 cycles, a discharge capacity with 330.5mAhg−1 is obtained. Most important is that it displays an excellent cycling stability at large current density. It exhibits high discharge capacity of 251mAg−1 at current density of 125mAg−1 after 50 cycles.