2015 Chevrolet Corvette

NEW FOR 2015:

- New exterior colours: Shark Grey, Daytona Sunrise Orange

2015 is a big year for America’s most iconic sports car. After a successful first model year, the Corvette Stingray returns with a significant number of improvements – and a new high-performance model set to deliver a message to the world’s top supercars. Yes, the Z06 is back and it’s throwing the hammer down.

But before we get to the pièce de résistance, it’s worth talking about the standard Corvette Stingray. Optional to all models is a new GM-designed eight-speed paddleshift automatic, which features launch control for catapulting starts. Beyond improving performance, it also ups fuel economy – always a good thing with a 6.2-litre V8 under the hood.

Also new to the Corvette this year are a host of tech-oriented features. As with all other Chevrolets, the Corvette’s OnStar system gets 4G LTE internet with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Exclusive to the Corvette, on the other hand, is the Performance Data Recorder. This on-board system records HD video and audio through a windshield-mounted camera, and can overlay acceleration, braking, cornering g-force, and other data, just like in Gran Turismo or Forza. Recordings can be played back on the car’s infotainment system or downloaded onto an SD card for further analysis – it’s a track-day junkie’s dream. It’s also perfect for protective owners, as it includes a valet mode.

Chevrolet is also offering several exterior and interior customization packages for this year’s Corvette including new special edition Atlantic and Pacific design themes (2LT and 3LT only), available carbon fibre ground effects package (CFZ), contrast-colour vents and badges, new wheel finishes, and more. There are also two new colours: Shark Grey and Daytona Sunrise Orange.

Now, onto the big news: the return of the Z06. The reincarnated flagship ‘Vette combines the power and brute-force of the old Corvette ZR1 with the handling finesse of the previous Z06. Power comes from a supercharged version of the LT4 engine that puts out a thunderous 650 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, and comes paired to either a seven-speed manual or for the first time, an eight-speed automatic transmission. With the latter, the Z06 is one of the quickest new vehicles on the road with a 0-96 km/h (60 mph) time of 2.95 second, and a quarter mile time of 10.95 seconds at 204 km/h (127 mph). Upgraded six-piston Brembo brakes have been fitted to counter the boost in power, while the suspension, aerodynamics, and tires have all been upgraded to help keep this road-going missile on the straight and narrow. Unlike previous Z06s, this one will be available in Convertible and Coupe form, the latter including for the first time a removable roof panel.

The Corvette Stingray Coupe and Convertible are offered in 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT trims. The Corvette Z06 Coupe and Convertible are offered in 1LZ, 2LZ, and 3LZ trims.

In 1LT trim, the Corvette Stingray features include 18-inch (front) and 19-inch (rear) aluminum wheels, sport suspension, HID headlamps with LED daytime running lights, carbon fibre removable roof panel, carbon fibre hood, heated power mirrors, capless fuel filler, reverse camera, power trunk release, proximity key with push-button start, alarm, 8.0-inch TFT instrument cluster display with trip computer and vehicle information, tire pressure monitor, drive mode selector (five modes), dual-zone automatic climate control with air filter, power windows with auto-up and down, power tilt and telescoping steering column, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, frameless rear-view mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, power eight-way adjustable seats, leather upholstery, 8.0-inch MyLink infotainment display with hidden storage, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, AM/FM/satellite radio, USB and aux-in jacks, nine-speaker Bose sound system, OnStar with 4G LTE internet and Wi-Fi hotspot.

Convertible adds full power top with remote activation, glass rear window, and rear defroster.

2LT adds heated power exterior mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming, advanced theft-deterrent system, colour-keyed console and door arm rests, colour head-up display, frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated and ventilated seats, power adjustable side bolsters and lumbar support, driver’s side memory function, luggage net, luggage cover, garage door opener, and 10-speaker Bose sound system.

3LT adds navigation, Performance Data Recorder system, leather-warpped interior, suede cloth upper interior trim, and Napa leather upholstery.

The Z51 Performance Package can be added to any Corvette Stingray. It includes larger wheels, tires, and brakes, enhanced cooling, electronic limited slip differential, dry sump oil system, performance gear ratios, performance suspension, and performance exhaust.

Corvette Z06 trim levels build on any Corvette Stingray trim level and adds standard 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) aluminum wheels, performance exhaust system with 4.0-inch polished stainless tips, red-painted brake calipers, upgraded Brembo braking system, magnetic ride control, upgraded stabilizer bars and shocks, colour head-up display.

The Z07 Performance Package can be added to any Z06. It includes carbon ceramic brakes, Z07-specific suspension tuning, upgraded Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires, and carbon fibre ground effects package with clear adjustable rear spoiler.