"The fastest C8 that was powered by a non-hybrid drivetrain."
In the spring of 2024, Chevrolet officially unveiled the highly anticipated C8 generation Corvette ZR1, marking its return as the ultimate performance variant in the Corvette lineup. This new ZR1 builds upon the mid-engine architecture of the C8, pushing the boundaries of power and aerodynamics to unprecedented levels.
While it shares a similar silhouette with the Z06, the ZR1 features significant styling enhancements dictated by its advanced aerodynamic...
“The fastest C8 that was powered by a non-hybrid drivetrain.”
In the spring of 2024, Chevrolet officially unveiled the highly anticipated C8 generation Corvette ZR1, marking its return as the ultimate performance variant in the Corvette lineup. This new ZR1 builds upon the mid-engine architecture of the C8, pushing the boundaries of power and aerodynamics to unprecedented levels.
While it shares a similar silhouette with the Z06, the ZR1 features significant styling enhancements dictated by its advanced aerodynamic requirements and increased cooling needs. Most noticeable is the availability of a prominent high-wing rear spoiler as part of the ZTK track performance package, along with aggressive front dive planes and underbody strakes, all crafted from carbon fiber. The front fascia incorporates larger air intakes to feed the twin-turbocharged engine and aid in cooling, while a flow-through hood design helps to extract hot air and further enhance downforce. Even the split rear window, a classic Corvette design cue, now integrates functional hatch intakes to cool the turbocharger inlet air.
Developed from the Z06’s potent LT6 engine, the ZR1’s LT7 is the first-ever twin-turbocharged V8 to feature in a factory Corvette. This 5.5-liter, flat-plane crank engine produces a staggering 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm, making it the most powerful V8 ever produced by an American automaker in a production car. This immense power is channeled through an upgraded eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, allowing the ZR1 to achieve a top speed estimated at over 233 mph on the track and sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.3 seconds. Chevrolet also estimates a quarter-mile time of under 9.6 seconds at 150 mph.
The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette C8 ZR1 has a starting MSRP of $174,995 for the 1LZ coupe, with the convertible version starting at $184,995. The more generously equipped 3LZ trim level begins at $185,995 for the coupe and $195,995 for the convertible. Opting for the ZR1 Carbon Fiber Aero package adds $8,495 to the price, and the ZTK Performance package, which requires the aero package, costs an additional $1,500. Production of the ZR1 is set to begin in the second quarter of 2025 at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky.