Fresh from last year's complete redo, Chevy's famed Corvette promises dominating performance and all the admiring attention you can handle. It remains the ultimate trophy car for young-at-heart buyers who appreciate American muscle and swagger.
The Corvette receives an eight-speed automatic transmission and some new design packages.
The Corvette Stingray, as it's officially known, is available as a rear-drive coupe or soft-top convertible. The 6.2-liter V8 pumps out 455 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque for appropriately untamed performance. An optional dual-mode exhaust system tweaks these figures to 460 and 465 respectively. Power is funneled through your choice of a seven-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission, both with launch control. Although the Corvette isn't about economy, it manages an impressive 29 mpg on the highway.
The standard coupe and convertible come in three trim levels (1LT, 2LT, 3LT), which differ in terms of comfort and convenience features only. The high-performance Z51 model is considered a separate series and is available in the same three trim levels.
Includes a leather interior, xenon headlamps, Bluetooth phone and audio, a rearview camera and a nine-speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio and an SD card reader. Coupes get a removal roof panel while convertibles carry a power soft top. Both bodies get 18-inch wheels up front and 19s in the rear.
Adds heated and ventilated seats with driver memory, an upgraded sound system, auto-dimming mirrors, a head-up display and a cargo cover.
Tops of the Corvette with upgraded leather upholstery and a navigation system.
Carries special performance equipment such as beefier brakes, a revised suspension system, a limited-slip rear differential, larger wheels (19-inch front/20 rear), and an engine oiling system. Adaptive suspension dampers are available separately. The Z51's trim levels mirror those of the standard model. Convertibles in 2LT and 3LT trim can get the new luxury-themed Atlantic Design Package with special wheels, graphics and trim pieces, plus a set of custom luggage. Z51 2LT and 3LT coupes are eligible for the racing-inspired Pacific Design Package, which features full competition exterior dress and performance seats.
Each increase in trim level adds about $5,000 to the price of the Corvette, as does the convertible body style. Keep in mind that only the Z51 equipment has any effect on performance, so you can stick with the "basic" LT1 trim and not miss a thrill.
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