The GM’s PR department got overly enthusiastic and gave the first glimpse into the 2023 C8 Corvette Z06 a month before its official launch!
The Corvette is one of America’s most popular sports cars ever, spanning across 60 years and eight generations so far. Since the beginning, the Vette (until C7) featured a front-mounted V8 and rear-wheel drive, which gave it a quintessentially American identity compared to its European counterparts. That was until the V8 engine was transplanted to a mid-mounted configuration, resulting in a change in its driving dynamics.
Although the C8 received a minor refresh, new colors, and a better fuel management system, it’s still to receive a higher-performance variant. Of course, Chevy already created airwaves with video footage and spy shots of its subsequent iteration testing at the Nürburgring and Laguna Seca, sporting a large fixed rear wing, some design tweaks plus a sound bite of what is rumored to be a flat-plane V8 engine—so we know it’s coming.
Luckily, Chevy recently unveiled a full image of the 2023 C8 Corvette Z06 without the camo livery. Pitting it against the regular model side-by-side, we can pick up on a few key differences. For starters, the front fascia looks more menacing than before, with larger air vents and a front splitter, and a carbon fiber lip. The wider fenders and pronounced creases on the hood are also pretty nice additions.
Moreover, the 2023 C8 Corvette Z06 receives an all-new wheel design with 7-spoke alloys highlighting a sweet braking setup with red calipers. The Z06 also features fresh angular air intakes with black inserts on the sides feeding air into the engine. Interestingly, this one doesn’t come with a fixed rear spoiler, meaning it might be part of an optional aero kit. Unfortunately, GM didn’t show off the rear-end, but we expect traditional Corvette tail lamps, a diffuser, and a quad-pipe exhaust system.
When it comes to the powertrain, there are no official words on the matter yet, but recent reports suggest that the Corvette Z06 would get the homologated 5.5-liter flat-plane V8 unit from its C8.R race sibling. If the numbers turn out to be accurate, the powerplant should redline at 9,000 RPM and belt out a monstrous 617 hp—127 hp more than the top-spec Stingray.
As of now, Chevy hasn’t confirmed anything yet, so it’s better to wait until the official launch before booking one. Regardless, the 2023 C8 Corvette Z06 prepares to be one hell of a sports car!
To be continued.
