The all-new Chevy Corvette, commonly called “C8 Corvette,” is powered by a big 6.2-liter V8, which sends power through the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to the rear wheels.
The Corvette’s engine generates 490 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft of torque. Fuel economy is listed as 15 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, for a combined 19-mpg average. The literature said the Corvette would do 0-60 in 2.9 second and its top speed comes at 194 mph.
Obviously with my lack of racing skills, I will never experience either of those challenges.
Once you get up to speed, the dual-clutch gearbox shifts crisply yet smoothly, seamlessly switch from gear to gear so quickly that you never feel like you have to climb the “rev range,” again.
After you hone your driving skills and understand the car’s performance potentials, you can explorer the possibilities and tap more into the Corvette experience.
However, I would recommend to take it slowly at first, because for me the brake pedal felt uncomfortable as the pedal goes down almost all the way. A smallness that seemed to impede my ability to do a little more “spirited driving.”
Remember, the Corvette is a pure bred sports car. It will only seat two in the front because of the mid-engine layout.
The cabin appears more modern and “driver focused” than previous model years. Seat are more comfortable, but again, of a sporting bloodline. The standard leather upholstery seats are ventilated seats and feel good. Legroom was average, while headroom was fair.
There were anxious feelings because no matter where the seat was positioned, you could not see out the back over the rear quarters. Frontal visibility was unobstructed, but by its nature, the car sits very low. Bad knees or back will not help you to get out of the car easily.
There is an eight-inch touchscreen that is part of the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus System that makes sound through a ten-speaker Bose Sound System. Bluetooth, 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot, HD Radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and smartphone connectivity for both iOS and Android are standard.
On the safety and convenience front, a standard HD rear view camera and optional front camera complement cruise control, theft-deterrent alarm, heated mirrors, Rear Park Assist, remote start, and a self-close rear hatch. All these standard features working together to present the owner a package that encourages the car to be used as a daily driver.
My test drive Corvette had a beautiful Shadow Gray Metallic exterior and Adrenaline Red interior.
All this beauty rest on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear five-spoke bright silver-painted aluminum wheel wearing all-season tires.
Outside, the new C8 Corvette reminded me of an American fighter jet depicted by the possible engine exhaust housing over the rear wheels, and the curve of the front hood. Now if I can only find a Reagan Class carrier to land this Baby.
The suggested price for this genuine American sports car starts at $58,900. Another $12,000 in options offer upgraded bucket seats, performance exhaust, bright red painted brake calipers, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Side Blind Zone Alert.
Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile Corrosion Limited Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Roadside Assistance
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or [email protected].
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