2023 Chevrolet Corvette

Arriving two years after the first production mid-engine Corvette Stingray debuted, Chevrolet ups the performance quotient of the sports car with the introduction of the Z06, “designed and engineered,” says the GM brand, “to act as a precision tool for the track.” With a stance 94 mm wider than the Stingray, accommodating massive 345-series rear tires and more airflow through side air vents, the Z06 sports unique front and rear fascias. The front fascia is designed to optimize the Z06’s cooling needs, including channeling air to a centre heat exchanger, which is one of five for maximum cooling performance.

The Stingray is offered in coupe and convertible models in 1LT, 2LT and 3LT trims, with the Z51 Performance Package available on all trims. Magnetic Ride Control is available with or without the Z51 Performance Package.

Performance

The Stingray’s LT2 6.2L V8 is rated at 490 hp, or 495 hp with the available performance exhaust system. The V8 drives through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. That’s not good enough for the new Z06, however, which gets a flat-plane crankshaft 5.5L LT6 engine, Chevrolet touting it as is the highest horsepower, naturally aspirated V8 to hit the market in any production car, ever — 670 hp at 8,400 rpm. Its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission has a “shorter” 5.56 final drive ratio compared to the Stingray, which enhances acceleration capability.

The available Z07 performance package that offers the greatest track capability and provides 734 pounds of downforce at 299 km/h, more than any Corvette ever. It includes a carbon-fibre high rear wing and ground effects, specific chassis tuning, specific Magnetic Ride Control calibration and unique Michelin Cup 2 R ZP tires, along with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and optional carbon-fibre wheels.

Practicality

Regular Corvette Coupes include a removable roof panel that stores in the rear trunk, and convertibles include a power-retractable hardtop. Dual cargo compartments offer a total of 356 litres of cargo volume, with a trunk large enough for two sets of golf clubs.

As for the Z06, unique features include an available carbon-fibre-wrapped steering wheel, shift paddles and new carbon-fibre interior trim package level 2. The Z06 also features hand-wrapped leather interior options, including an available fully trimmed interior in Adrenaline Red Dipped colour.

Canadian Pricing

The Stingray starts at $74,603 for the Coupe, $83,603 for the Convertible. As for the Z06, pricing starts at $128,198 for the base-level 1LZ coupe, $138,198 for the 2LZ coupe and $144,198 for the 3LZ coupe. Convertible versions of all three Z06 trims are available for an additional $9,000 each, and prices include the $2,298 destination freight charge.