2023 Chevrolet Corvette Preview
It’s hard to think of a time when there hasn’t been surrounding the Corvette. Regarded by many gearheads as the most legendary American sports car ever produced, every new model is a masterpiece. In fact, the old models seem to stand the test of time pretty well, too, from the original 1953 Corvette all the way up through the new mid-engine variety. The Corvette’s evolution into a mid-engine masterpiece shocked the world and validated all of those American muscle enthusiasts who have long preferred Chevrolet to the fastest imports.
Now, though, the vision for this special driving machine is once again shifting to the future. After all, a car like this doesn’t stay at the top of the industry for so long by resting on past accomplishments. With that in mind, here’s everything we know about the upcoming 2023 Chevy Corvette Z06.
2023 Corvette Z06 Overview
One of the biggest reasons to be excited about the Corvette has always been the engine, and the next one will be no exception to that rule. Look for the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 to have a flat-plane crank V8 engine, which is unlike anything that’s been put into one of these vehicles before. Thanks to this engine, the latest supercar from the bowtie brand will have a brand new sound – and, more importantly, a brand new performance. The rest of the vehicle will also feature plenty of upgrades that make it worthy of this spectacular engine.
For one thing, the Z06 Corvette will look the part. That means larger air scoops to provide more oxygen to the engine, flared fenders, and more. Remember that this vehicle’s head-turning looks are about much more than just making an aesthetic impression. Everything has its purpose, and that purpose is performance. The aerodynamic design of this vehicle will actively adjust to optimize downforce at any speed and yield better traction while cornering.
In addition to these big changes, other tweaks are expected to include things like even stickier tires, a design that saves weight, stiffer suspension for better traction, additional cooling for the breaks and engine, and superior stopping power. At least, this is what historically sets the Z06 code apart beyond the engine and aerodynamics. There is some uncertainty about exactly what those features will look like, but we at least know it’s inheriting great features from the Current Corvette C8, such as an engine that gets even faster after 500 miles.
What Else Will the Corvette Change for 2023?
The first mid-engine Corvette Z06 will be the 2023 model, but it is expected to go on sale early in 2022. When we look at how the Z06 compares to other Corvettes historically, we can say that this car will be ready to light it up at the track with a good deal of certainty. Handling, speed, and other performance attributes will all be the very best the engineers at Chevrolet could dial-up, which is saying a lot.
2023 Corvette Performance: Engine and Transmission
One of the things that people love about expensive imported supercars is the sound. The new engine in the Z06 is likely to have a little bit of that sound itself. The flat-plane crank in this naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 will likely allow it to rev to somewhere between 8,500 and 9,000 rpm. It will really scream at that level of rpm, and it will also produce an estimated horsepower of over 600.
This borderline-artisan V8 will be mated with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and send its power to the rear wheels. It seems safe to assume that the Z06 will be even faster (perhaps considerably so) than the 2020 Corvette Z51 2 with 495 horsepower, and that model can already go from zero to 60 in 2.8 seconds. It’s hard to fathom exactly what kind of speed this vehicle will deliver, but we’re optimistic about standing quarter-mile times under 11 seconds.
2023 Corvette Interior and Storage
The mid-engine Corvette made a splash because of the innovative design, but it isn’t a one-trick pony. The interior was also impressive, offering features like a square steering wheel and high-tech controls to set itself apart from any other Chevrolet ever produced. The upcoming model is expected to build on that even more, and almost everything inside this vehicle has been designed to maximize the experience for the driver.
It’s reasonable to expect that the interior will include fine materials that add a touch of luxury to the sporty experience. For example, all of the following features are likely to be in play:
- Heated and ventilated seats
- Large digital instrument cluster
- Head-up display
- Wireless charging
If it’s anything like the current C8, even the storage will be good for a car of this caliber. The rear trunk may continue to offer plenty of room for two sets of golf clubs, and the front truck is available as well now that the engine has moved to the middle of the vehicle.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Corvette will have access to the Chevrolet infotainment system that is widely regarded as one of the best in the business. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot are almost givens at this point.
Look for even more impressive features like Bose speakers and a Performance Data Recorder to really take things to the next level. This car will be loaded with technology that helps you make the most of every drive, whether you’re cruising through the Arizona desert, rolling through downtown Phoenix, or treating yourself to some track time.
Safety and Driver Assistance
So far, the Corvette C8 strikes a great balance between offering modern driver assistance technology and letting the driver stay in control. It will be exciting to see which additional features are added to the C8 Corvette Z06 and how Chevrolet continues to preserve the almost spiritual connection between the driver, the car, and the road.
How Much Will the Corvette Z06 Cost?
In previous years, the Corvette Z06 has been about $25,000 more than the base model. This might seem like a huge jump if you’re comparing it to the trim level prices of other cars, but it’s important to remember that you’re basically getting a race car for this price. (Those who fully appreciate what the Z06 can do understand that the additional cost goes a long way.) Because the 2022 Corvette starts at a bit over $60,000, most estimates are that the 2023 Corvette Z06 cost will be somewhere in the ballpark of $85,000 to $90,000.
Test Drive a Corvette in Phoenix
The new 2023 Corvette Z06 (along with the rest of the 2023 model year) is right around the corner. We’d say these cars will be here before you know it, but we also know how hard it is to wait for such a promising new Corvette. The good news is that we will make them available to you as soon as possible, which we expect to be in the first half of 2022. Until then, find your nearest Valley Chevy location to learn more, test drive the current C8, and prepare for the arrival of the 2023 Corvette.
