Chevrolet Corvette Z06 2025: New Stage in Performance with Flat-Crank V8
Now that the excitement for the mid-engine Corvette has died down, anticipation is building for the even more powerful Z06 model. With an exotic flat-plane crank V8 engine, the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will sound unlike any other Vette that has come before.
Sports car Corvette Z06
It will also look meaner than the mainstream C8, thanks to flared fenders, larger air scoops and an aerodynamic addendum that actively adjusts to maximize high-speed downforce and cornering traction.
Along with its exclusive powertrain and improved appearance, the Super Chevy will inherit the best features and technology from the regular model. While we don’t have all the juicy details about the new Z06 yet, here’s what we know so far.
Engine, transmission and performance
The upcoming Corvette Z06 will receive a special engine designed to make it sound similar to the supercars it’s trying to dethrone. The naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V-8 features a flat-plane crank, meaning it should rev between 8500 and 9000 rpm. This engine is expected to produce over 600 horsepower, and its Ferrari-like howl is guaranteed to send shivers down onlookers’ spines. The unconventional V-8 will be connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Considering the 495-hp Corvette Z51 we tested rocketed from zero to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and covered the standing quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds at 122 mph, the Z06 will be even quicker in a straight line. A set of wider, stickier tires and stronger brakes will help it drive harder and stop shorter than the regular Vette, too. Chevy will also reinforce the structure and recalibrate the Z06’s suspension tuning to ensure its performance advantages are most evident on the track. A host of active aerodynamics that automatically adjust to optimize downforce will join the pack on this new generation. We’ll have to wait until we get our hands on one to evaluate how its myriad improvements compare to the outgoing Corvette Z06.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Neither Chevy nor the EPA have indicated how efficient – or inefficient – the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will be in the city and on the highway. Since the company’s flatplane-crank V-8 is currently found only in the Corvette C8.R race car, we don’t have any government ratings to compare. Once the Z06’s fuel economy numbers are released and we have a chance to test one on our 75-mile highway route, we’ll be able to evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information on the Corvette Z06’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, comfort and cargo
The Bow Tie brand has gone above and beyond to ensure that the mid-engine Corvette’s interior cannot be called boring. While the design certainly surpasses what can be found in any other Chevy model, the square steering wheel and wall of climate buttons on the center console are unusual elements to say the least. Still, the cabin layout is focused on the driver, and the list of standard and optional features is extensive. These include a 12.0-inch fully digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, heated and ventilated seats, and wireless charging. All of this and more will continue in the new Z06. We expect its track-readiness to be evident with additional carbon fiber and microsuede accents in the interior, as well as a set of even more aggressively bolstered seats. The Corvette’s spacious rear trunk should still provide drivers with room to carry two sets of golf clubs.
Infotainment and connectivity
Built into the Corvette’s layered dashboard is an 8.0-inch touchscreen that supports Chevy’s Infotainment 3 Plus system. While we’ve had minimal exposure to this particular setup, we found it mostly intuitive and responsive. We’re confident the Z06 will share the same interface and features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Likewise, two separate Bose stereos are expected to be offered: a standard 10-speaker system and an optional 14-speaker setup. The new Z06 still offers the Performance Data Recorder, which lets you record everything from your track exploits to relaxed country road drives. And if you dare leave your Z06 with a valet, there’s a setting that records all of the parker’s nefarious activities.
Safety and driver assistance functions
While the regular C8 Corvette only has a handful of driver-assistance technology, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, we expect these features to be available on the Z06. For more information on crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty and maintenance coverage
Chevy offers all of its models with a mid-range limited and powertrain warranty. Although the company offers more free maintenance than automakers that skip free service altogether, it’s one of the shortest plans in the industry.
Price Chevrolet Corvette Z06
The first mid-engine Corvette Z06 is expected to arrive in early as a model. Traditionally, it’s a tougher, track-focused version of the standard Vette, complete with bold styling cues and serious performance features.
Since Chevy hasn’t officially revealed the new Corvette Z06 yet, it should make sense that we can only speculate how much it will cost. Its front-engine predecessor cost about $25,000 more than the base model, so we think it’s safe to add that figure to the Corvette’s starting price, which starts at $59,995. That means the Z06 should open at about $85,000 when it eventually goes on sale.
