The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette C8 is among the most highly anticipated sports cars in recent years. This holds true not only in the United States but also in markets like Australia, where the eighth-generation Corvette has sparked controversy due to its mid-engine location. As a longtime enthusiast of American muscle cars, including the Corvette, I have had the opportunity to drive various models over the years, from the C2 convertible to the C7 convertible. If you’re interested in reading more motoring-related news and videos, be sure to check out Motoring.
Unfortunately, owning a Corvette has not been possible for me so far. However, I have expressed my interest to General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) that I’m eagerly waiting for the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06, provided I haven’t missed my chance. For over six decades, Chevrolet has stuck to its successful formula of a two-seat, lightweight, front-engine, V8-powered sports car. The Corvette has also stood out for its extra-long hood and the availability of manual or automatic transmissions, coupe or convertible options. It has consistently offered exceptional value compared to its more expensive European rivals from Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati.
However, with the C8 Corvette, Chevrolet decided to depart from this successful formula. European sports cars had already embraced the mid-engine layout, and the iconic Porsche 911 continued with its rear-mounted flat-six engine. Therefore, the eighth-generation Corvette chose to adopt the more exotic mid-engine layout, marking a new chapter for this iconic American sports car. The C8 also replaced the manual transmission option with an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, known for its quick shifts and paddle shifters. Importantly, the C8 Corvette is now available in right-hand drive, a significant development for Australian customers.
The C8 Corvette’s cab-forward cockpit and mid-engine Euro design may come as a surprise to purists. In fact, while sitting at my local spot in Sydney, I overheard people suggesting that it must be the new Ferrari. General Motors may not mind such comparisons, considering Ferrari has long been a benchmark for the Corvette in terms of handling and performance.
General Motors openly admits that the front-engine layout had reached its limits in terms of power and dynamic evolution. To compete with European automakers, a shift to the mid-engine setup was necessary. The C7 Corvette was a significant improvement over its predecessor in many aspects, particularly the interior. However, the C8 Corvette takes things a step further by offering a revolutionary design both inside and out. Under the hood, the C8 retains the LT2 6.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 engine, which is now in its fifth generation with improved performance. The compact and powerful engine benefits from enhanced breathing and cooling capabilities.
Inside, the C8 Corvette features a driver-focused cockpit with premium materials such as soft leather, carbon-fiber accents, real metal trims, and cutting-edge technology. This gives the cabin a luxurious and upmarket feel. The C8 also maintains the Corvette’s reputation for offering excellent value, with prices starting at under $150,000 for the base model in Australia. Australian-delivered Corvettes come standard with the Z51 Performance Pack, which includes various performance-enhancing features. Additionally, all models come equipped with a multi-faceted head-up display and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.
Looking ahead, the Corvette lineup will soon be expanded with the introduction of the Z06 variant. This high-performance model will be powered by a 5.5-liter naturally-aspirated double overhead cam flat-plane crank V8 engine, making it the most powerful production-series V8 engine in history.
In terms of pricing, the base 2LT Coupe starts at $144,900 before on-road costs, while the 2LT Stingray Convertible carries a $15,000 premium. The better-equipped 3LT Coupe starts at $160,500, with the Convertible version priced at $175,500. The flagship Carbon Edition Coupe comes in at $189,990 plus on-roads. These prices make the Corvette competitive against supercars like the Ferrari 296 GTB, Lamborghini Huracan Evo RWD, and McLaren Artura.
When it comes to safety, the Chevrolet Corvette has not undergone crash tests in the United States or Australia, so there is no ANCAP safety rating available. However, it does come equipped with dual front airbags, side impact airbags, a reversing camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and park assist. It also includes a Weather drive mode for wet or slippery conditions. However, advanced driver-assist systems like AEB, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist are not available.
The interior of the C8 Corvette represents a significant upgrade over previous models, featuring high-quality materials and innovative design. Highlights include the unique racing-style steering wheel, soft Nappa leather upholstery, and optional Competition Sport seats. The cabin offers a refined and luxurious experience comparable to its rivals.
Ultimately, the 2022 Chevrolet Corvette C8 represents a new era for this iconic American sports car, combining performance, value, and innovative design. With its mid-engine configuration and enhanced features, the C8 Corvette is poised to compete with the best from Europe and beyond.