Latest news with #ZR1X
Auto Blog
20 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Every Corvette C8 Ranked By Horsepower
Unmatched Power For The Money With the launch of the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, the Corvette C8 family has grown once more. It seems like longer than five years since the original Corvette C8 Stingray went into production, so far has this generation of the sports car come since then. Regardless of what model you pick, every C8 offers supercar-level looks and performance for a fraction of the price of an Italian exotic. Here's a refresher of where each model sits in the lineup, ranked from lowest to highest horsepower output. Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:09 / 0:09 Tesla sales in Europe drop yet again Watch More Corvette Stingray: 490 Horsepower Source: Chevrolet This is where the C8 story began, and it's almost easy to forget just how potent the standard Corvette is, especially at a base price of $68,300. The 6.2-liter V8 engine makes 490 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque; Porsche charges more for a four-cylinder Cayman with 300 hp. The 0-60 mph time of around three seconds is still supercar-quick, aided by the quick shifts of the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic, along with the rear-wheel-drive C8's immense grip. Unless you drive one of the other C8s, you would not feel shortchanged behind the wheel of the base model in any way. Corvette Stingray with Performance Exhaust or Z51 Performance Package: 495 Horsepower Source: Chevrolet You can squeeze more power and torque out of the standard Corvette Stingray by equipping either the performance exhaust ($1,195) or the popular Z51 Performance Package ($6,345). In both cases, the V8 is uprated to 495 hp and 470 lb-ft, and the C8 in this configuration can hit 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. Besides the performance exhaust, the Z51 pack also adds performance Brembo brakes, a performance suspension, a unique rear axle ratio, an electronic limited-slip differential, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, turning this into a monster track toy. Considering the standard Corvette's appealing base price, the Z51 pack is a no-brainer. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Corvette E-Ray: 655 Horsepower Source: Chevrolet After the standard Corvettes, it's a huge bump up in power to the hybrid E-Ray, which adds an electric drive unit and e-AWD to the 6.2L V8 lump. Combined, the system makes 655 hp, and the additional traction of the E-Ray results in a 2.5-second 0-60 mph run. The price for a base E-Ray rises to $106,900, and while that's far more than a base Corvette, it still represents remarkable bang for your buck. The E-Ray manages the same 19 mpg combined as the base Corvette, so the hybrid system is less about efficiency and more about finding a way to unlock another layer of performance. You can also use the car's Stealth mode for silent getaways early on weekend mornings, without disturbing the neighbors. Corvette Z06: 670 Horsepower Source: Chevrolet Choosing between the E-Ray and Z06 is quite a conundrum. The Z06 is a raw performer, swapping the 6.2-liter V8 for an intoxicating 5.5-liter flat plane crank V8 that shrieks all the way to 8,600 rpm. It produces 670 hp and 460 lb-ft, and also has an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. Chevy says it'll hit 60 mph in 2.6 seconds, which is actually slower than the E-Ray, and you need the Z06's $8,995 Z07 Performance Package to achieve that time. That's on top of its $112,100 base price. Taking all this into account, the E-Ray is the winner on paper. But that doesn't tell the full story. You see, the Z06 is about 300 lbs lighter than the E-Ray. This, coupled with its more rev-hungry engine, makes it a more unfiltered and enjoyable track tool. But the E-Ray is a more refined, sophisticated daily driver. You can't go wrong with either. Corvette ZR1: 1,064 Horsepower 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 — Source: Chevrolet The ZR1 takes the 5.5-liter flat plane crank V8 from the Z06 and boosts it with two turbos. That makes a huge difference, and the result is 1,064 hp and 828 lb-ft. With the ZTK Performance Package, the 0-60 mph time drops to an astonishing 2.3 seconds. That may be only two-tenths more than the E-Ray, but even the smallest gains are not easy to come by at this level. The ZTK pack adds a special suspension with magnetic selective ride control and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires. At $1,500, it's a box you may as well tick, since the ZR1 starts at $173,300. Up until very recently, it was hard to believe the Corvette could get more extreme, but then the ZR1X came along. Corvette ZR1X: 1,250 Horsepower Source: Chevrolet Chevy pulled out all the stops for the new Corvette ZR1X. Combining the best of the E-Ray and ZR1, this C8 features the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 combined with an electric drive unit, bringing combined outputs well into EV territory at 1,064 hp and 828 lb-ft. Like the E-Ray, it has e-AWD. The combination of immense power and AWD grip makes it a rocket, with a 0-60 mph time of under two seconds and a quarter-mile time of under nine seconds. In Stealth Mode, the ZR1X can be driven for 4 to 5 miles at speeds of up to 45 mph in silence, but most will prefer operating it with the V8 in full flow. Careful attention to aerodynamics make this the Corvette with the highest ever downforce, and massive carbon ceramic brakes are there to bring the car down from the insanely high speeds it can reach. Pricing for the ZR1X is yet to be revealed, but we expect something in the vicinity of $230,000 to $250,000. Like every other C8, it offers unmatched power and performance from a gas or hybrid sports car for the price. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
Auto Express
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Express
The Corvette ZR1X is so powerful that the Ferrari F80 is in its rear-view mirror
If ever there was a collection of random letters and numbers that undersell something, it's 'ZR1X'. These unremarkable four characters aren't attached to a small Japanese SUV or high-riding electric car – but the most powerful Chevrolet Corvette ever, with no less than 1,250bhp. On the new ZR1X, the American icon has been taken to a few orders of magnitude higher than ever before, meaning that on sheer numbers alone, it is brushing shoulders with hypercars. In order to reach this figure, Chevrolet has created a hybridised powertrain that capitalises on an incredibly high-performing twin-turbocharged V8 engine and an electrified front axle, much in the way Lamborghini does on its new Temerario. Advertisement - Article continues below The difference is that the Chevrolet's 5.5-litre V8 is considerably more powerful than the Lambo's, with peak power of 1,064bhp and an astonishing peak torque of 1,188Nm – and these figures, remember, are without the e-motor being factored in. It packs cutting-edge technology, too, such as a flat-plane crank and a pair of clever turbochargers that are integrated right into the exhaust manifold. This hand-built masterpiece of an engine really is a far cry from the pig-iron pushrod V8s generally associated with General Motors, and is instead directly related to the brand's GT3 motorsport program. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below Additional power is then generated from an electrified front axle, which incorporates a 186bhp electric motor and a compact 1.9kWh battery pack to drive the front wheels completely independently of the rear. There's no facility to plug the ZR1X in; its power is produced via regenerative braking, and it decouples at speeds of over 160mph. Chevrolet has not finalised official performance figures, but suggests that 0-60mph will be possible in under two seconds and the 0-400m (or quarter mile) in under nine, blowing away even the (very) theoretical '10 second cars' from the Fast and Furious franchise. As with all hybrid-powered sports cars, there's a range of different modes that change the way a ZR1X can deliver its performance. The first Endurance Mode ensures that the battery capacity is never fully depleted, ensuring that a high level of performance is possible over a long period. Qualifying Mode shortens that peak operating window, expelling more battery charge more quickly and allowing it to run empty. Push-to-Pass delivers maximum available performance. Advertisement - Article continues below To balance out this astounding potential, Chevrolet has introduced a new brake set-up that combines huge 419mm Alcon carbon ceramic discs with ten-piston calipers at the front and six-piston ones at the rear. High-performance Corvettes have long been known for their impressive braking performance, but these take things to another level, with a quoted deceleration of 1.9G between 180mph and 120mph. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below In the US, the ZR1X will be offered with two chassis set-ups that both include magnetic dampers as standard. The base car is more road-biased and is paired with a standard sports tyre, but for ultimate track performance, the ZTK package ups the spring rates by 20 per cent, and swaps in some aggressive Michelin Cup 2R rubber. It also enhances the aero package with a high-mounted rear spoiler, plus some other tweaks. This aero pack can be fitted to models on standard suspension as an option. In addition, carbon fibre wheels are available which usefully reduce unsprung mass. The exterior design is closely related to the existing Corvette ZR1, which itself utilises a wider body that was first revealed for the naturally aspirated Z06. Inside, however, the ZR1X has adopted the Corvette's new interior design, with a new triple-screen layout and the removal of the controversial climate control buttons. Just about the only number that doesn't match up to a hypercar is the price, which is $178,195, or £132,243 at current conversion rates. That's equivalent to something like a well-optioned Porsche 911 GTS, while being more powerful and even quicker than the forthcoming Ferrari F80. Come and join our WhatsApp channel for the latest car news and reviews... Find a car with the experts New Volvo EM90 2025 review: the ultimate SUV killer New Volvo EM90 2025 review: the ultimate SUV killer Volvo has made an ultra-luxurious van. Intrigued? You should be, but sadly it's for China only Groundbreaking Nissan solid-state EV batteries due on sale by 2028 Groundbreaking Nissan solid-state EV batteries due on sale by 2028 The industry is in a race to bring solid-state to the market, and Nissan isn't too far behind the leaders New Audi Q3 reinvents the indicator stalk, but there's a whole lot more too New Audi Q3 reinvents the indicator stalk, but there's a whole lot more too Audi's not taking any risks with its all-new Q3; watch it sell like crazy
NZ Autocar
2 days ago
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Chevrolet takes the Corvette to Hypercar Status with ZR1X model
The new ZR1X takes the Corvette to a whole new performance level. The latest Chevrolet hypercar is good for a 0-96km/h time of under 2seconds. That's thanks mainly to an electrified all-wheel drive (AWD) system. This car is said to be the most advanced Corvette yet, boasting 932kW and making the most of the Corvette's mid-engine architecture. Power and Performance At the heart of the ZR1X lies the is the LT7 twin-turbo V8 engine. It outputs 793kW at 7000rpm and 1124Nm of torque at 6000rpm. The power flows to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. This 5.5-litre small-block V8 is hand-built. It features dual 76mm turbochargers, an exhaust designed for rapid throttle response, and dynamic anti-lag control. This maintains turbo speed during off-throttle situations. The power is optimised for both street and track use. It's not just the V8 doing the leg work either. The ZR1X incorporates a front-axle electric motor delivering 139kW and 197Nm of torque, creating an electrified AWD system. This system builds on that of the 2024 E-Ray, the first AWD Corvette. The system integrates a high-voltage battery and an electric motor powering the front axle. There is no physical connection between the two power sources. The electric motor charges the battery via regenerative braking rather than plugging in. Said battery is designed to provide rapid bursts of power. It has improved power output over that of the E-Ray, for better lap times and acceleration. This set-up delivers standing quarters in under nine seconds. On-Track Technology and Performance Features ZR1X features several advanced systems to optimize performance on the track. The car has a new drive mode dubbed PTM Pro. It turns off traction control and stability control while keeping regen brake torque vectoring and launch control active. Moreover, the engineers have upgraded the eAWD chassis control system from the E-Ray. It offers more refined power distribution between the front and rear axles. The ZR1X also offers three specialized energy strategies: Endurance Mode: This optimises the battery for consistent performance during extended track sessions. Qualifying Mode: Maximises power for the fastest lap times. Push-to-Pass: Provides maximum available power on-demand for overtaking or acceleration. Advanced Braking and Suspension To handle the added power, the ZR1X comes equipped with Alcon 10-piston front and six-piston rear calipers, paired with carbon-ceramic rotors. These are the largest rotors ever offered on a Corvette, measuring 419mm in diameter, offering superior heat resistance and responsiveness. This braking system evidently produces 1.9G of deceleration at high speed. The car's suspension features magnetic ride control (adaptive damping), with an option for the ZTK Performance Package. This comprises stiffer springs and Michelin Pilot Cup 2R tires for track-day grip. For additional downforce, the Carbon Aero package adds dive planes and a rear wing. It produces up to 544kg of downforce at top speed, for enhanced stability. Interior and Comfort The 2026 Corvette ZR1X comes with a unique interior, including a new three-screen layout, and a redesigned centre console. It also display real-time vehicle data through the Performance App. The interior offers an array of customisation options. Customers can choose between coupe and hardtop convertible body styles too. Built in America Like all Corvettes, the ZR1X is built at GM's Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky. Every engine is hand-assembled at the plant, with U.S. and globally sourced parts used in production. One other aspect Chevrolet mentioned is that the ZR1X is just as happy and civilised plying city streets as it is hammering around race tracks.
Auto Blog
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
The Corvette Zora Didn't Happen Because The ZR1X Is An AWD ZR1
Zora Seemed Like The Perfect Name Zora Arkus-Duntov was no ordinary engineer. He turned the Corvette into a true sports car, and although he was several decades ahead of his time, he even advocated the idea of putting its engine in the middle of the chassis. The man died in 1996, long enough to see the ZR1 badge move from performance package to new model line in the C4, but he didn't see his idea of a mid-engine 'Vette realized, as the car only made that change with the reveal of the C8 in 2019. Before that car arrived, a patent filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in 2014 gave General Motors the right to use the Zora name on a car. GM reapplied for the trademark in 2019, just as the C8 was preparing to enter the world, so the puzzle pieces were falling into place. The ultimate C8 seemed like a romantic way to immortalize the man. Chevrolet could combine the layout that Zora championed with the most capable version of that car, which would surely be a fitting tribute to the man. But when Road & Track asked why our expectations were not met with the nomenclature and we instead got the alphanumeric ZR1X name, the response from a spokesperson was simply, 'ZR1X is an extension of the ZR1 family, so we believe ZR1X is a fitting name for the new variant.' That Explains ZR1X, But Not Why Zora Was Passed On R&T was not satisfied with that answer either, so the publication asked directly why Zora wasn't used, especially since the trademark was secured. 'I know Zora was broadly speculated by enthusiasts, but since it was future product, it was never something we weighed in on,' said the spokesperson. 'What I can tell you is the team felt this Corvette was deserving of the ZR1 designation, and it was an opportunity to show that even though ZR1 and ZR1X are different cars, they have strong familial resemblance and represent ultimate Corvette performance.' Fair enough – we'll give our thoughts on this explanation momentarily. But what does the 'X' stand for? This might seem like a silly question to ask. Surely it references the fact that this is an AWD take on the ZR1, or perhaps an 'Xtreme' version since it has more power, right? Wrong. There was reportedly 'no grand scheme behind it' – the name 'was about sticking close to ZR1.' This leads us back to the cesspool of speculation. Ford decided to call its first electric crossover Mustang Mach-E because the first part of the name is so familiar and could thus help ease the introduction of a new concept (in this case, an electric crossover), and the sales numbers prove the strategy worked. It seems GM simply added a letter to the ZR1 name for similar reasons – a hybridized AWD Corvette may have been a hard sale with an uncommon new name. Our Take: Chevy Had No Choice But To Expand The ZR1 Family Source: Chevrolet Hardcore enthusiasts are resistant to change and averse to the perceived dilution of a nameplate. Many BMW M3 fans bemoaned the move to a V8 in the E9X generation because, in their minds, the recipe had to include a straight-six engine. Similarly, some have already started to denigrate Shelby American's GT350 because it doesn't have a naturally aspirated flat-plane crank V8 like the S550 version that Ford made, so you can be sure that some ZR1 fans will argue that, to them, the badge has always signified a rear-wheel-drive front-engine sports car, even if the engine under the hood has always changed. Fanatics decide that a car fits in a certain box, and then they get annoyed when that box no longer fits. Simply put, GM had a choice between mildly redefining what the ZR1 badge means by putting it on a car with AWD and a hybrid system, or it could have gone the other way, putting the Zora badge above ZR1. This would have been a slippery (and expensive) slope. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. By placing 1,250-horsepower AWD Zora above 1,064-hp traction-limited ZR1, GM would be conceding that the latter no longer means the cream of the Corvette crop; the existence of the Zora would mean the ZR1 is 'less than.' Changing to a mid-engine layout was controversial but necessary, but changing the name that signifies the pinnacle of Corvette performance? That would be a marketing nightmare, and when you've spent the last 55 years (excluding the C5 generation) ensuring that the ZR1 badge is what comes to mind when thinking of an all-American supercar killer, slapping a new name on essentially the ultimate evolution thereof would be disrespectful to the Corvette brand's heritage, and in this world, selling cars is more important than yet another nod to the man who helped shape it. To be fair, Chevy could well still use the Zora name for some kind of limited-run send-off when the C8 is ready to retire in a few years, or it could be reserved to introduce a whole new take on Corvette performance as an EV… About the Author Sebastian Cenizo View Profile
Auto Blog
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Gallery
Take a closer look at the hottest Corvette ever It's the mind-bending power and performance figures of the Chevrolet Corvette ZRX1 that have made the headlines over the last few days, and rightly so, but let's not take away the fact that it's also got the visual punch to back up its hypercar-level speed. Here's a look at the newest Corvette from every angle. 0:06 / 0:09 Thinking about buying a Toyota RAV4? These 5 rivals might change your mind Watch More 1 Source: Chevrolet The exterior of the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X is seen here black, with a red center stripe and the ZTK Performance Package. 2 Source: Chevrolet From above, we can see the aggressive hood and the large rear wing. The various aerodynamic enhancements to this model create 1,200 lbs of downforce. 3 Source: Chevrolet The Corvette is nearly as mean to look at without the rear wing. This example is finished in Blade Silver Metallic, but buyers can also get the car in eye-popping shades like Sebring Orange and Competition Yellow. 4 Source: Chevrolet A quad-exit exhaust system peaks out of the back. While it makes a stunning noise at full throttle, an electric-only Stealth Mode enables driving on electric power alone at up to 45 mph, but only for 4 to 5 miles. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. 5 Source: Chevrolet Massive performance means massive breaks, and the ZRX1 boasts 10-piston front calipers and six-piston items at the back. The carbon ceramic rotors measure 16.5 inches, now the biggest ever fitted to a Corvette. 6 Source: Chevrolet The flow-through hood assists with optimal airflow, while the front splitter and underwing creates suction under the car to improve downforce and lower drag. 7 Source: Chevrolet A very special engine powers this Corvette. The 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 is boosted by two 76mm turbos. This, together with a front-axle electric motor, develops 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft combined. The 0-60 time is under two seconds, and the manufacturer estimates a quarter-mile sprint of below nine seconds. 8 Santorini Blue interior on 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZRX1. Preproduction model shown, actual production model may vary. — Source: Chevrolet The basic layout of the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZRX1's interior will be familiar to those who have driven other Corvettes. A new three-screen layout and updated center console form part of the changes. 9 Source: Chevrolet Even the base 1LZ gets eight-way power-adjustable GT1 or Competition sports seats. If you go for the 3LZ, expect heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats. 10 Source: Chevrolet High-quality leather and stitching are everywhere, and there's a Bose sound system with between 10 and 14 speakers, depending on the trim. 11 Source: Chevrolet The center section features glossy carbon fiber trim, dual cupholders, and a wireless charging pad. 12 Source: Chevrolet As with the exterior, the interior is highly customizable. There are at least 20 different color combinations, including the Adrenaline Red seen here. 13 Source: Chevrolet Customers can obtain plenty of information from the ZR1X's Performance App, including tire temperatures and horsepower/torque over specific time intervals. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
