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The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 elevates the legendary model into territory occupied by Ferrari and Lamborghini exotics. With the engine now situated behind the driver, this Z06 is unlike any previously seen. In addition to being significantly wider than the standard Corvette Stingray, it also has larger air intakes and a unique rear wing. Due to a flat-plane crankshaft, the new Z06’s 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V-8 engine sounds unlike any previous Vette, and it accelerated the car to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds on our test track.
While it inherits the Stingray’s finest amenities and technologies, its performance and handling have been enhanced. Chevy switched to a mid-engine layout to make the C8 Corvette a more affordable supercar, and the 2023 Corvette Z06 promises to humiliate more than a few drivers of insanely expensive supercars on the racetrack. We were so impressed by the Z06 that we included it alongside the Stingray on our list of the 10 best cars of 2023.
2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Exterior
The first mid-engine Corvette Z06 went into production in the summer of 2022 and was introduced as a model in 2023. As is customary, the Z06 is a more aggressive, track-focused version of the standard Corvette, with more daring design cues and serious performance characteristics.
Given the car’s performance characteristics, the new 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06‘s six-figure starting price is unsurprising, but it’s still a bargain compared to European supercars with comparable equipment. The Z07 Performance package includes a tuned suspension, Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and high-performance Michelin Pilot Cup 2R ZP tires, which we would add to the base 1LZ Coupe. This package requires the addition of the Carbon Aero package, which adds exterior elements made of carbon fiber, including a front splitter and a rear spoiler.
Powertrain, Engine, and Performance
The new Corvette Z06 is equipped with a special engine that mimics the sound of the supercars it seeks to dethrone. Its 5.5-liter V-8 engine with naturally aspirated flat-plane crankshaft revs to 8500 rpm. The engine’s 670 horsepower and Ferrari-like roar will send shivers down the spines of onlookers. The unconventional V-8 engine is paired with a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. On our test track, the Z06 accelerated to 60 miles per hour in just 2.6 seconds and sailed past the quarter-mile mark at 131 miles per hour in 10.5 seconds. In the testing, the convertible required only 0.1 additional seconds to reach 60 miles per hour. A set of wider, more grippy tires and stronger brakes enable it to turn more aggressively and stop quicker than the standard Vette.
Chevy has also modified the Corvette’s structure and chassis to ensure that the Z06’s performance advantages are most evident on the racetrack. An optional Z07 package adds aerodynamic elements, reduces weight, and upgrades the brakes and tires to maximize its performance. The vehicle comes standard with 20-inch front and 21-inch rear forged aluminum wheels, but optional carbon-fiber wheels are lighter and stronger.
Energy Efficiency and Real-World MPG
The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06‘s EPA-estimated fuel economy of 12 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway makes the Chevrolet Silverado appear efficient. When we have the opportunity, we will drive the Z06 on our 75 mph highway fuel economy test route and update this article with its actual results. Visit the EPA’s website for more information about the Corvette Z06’s fuel economy.
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2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Cargo, Comfort, and Interior
The Bow Tie brand went above and beyond to ensure that the interior of the mid-engine Corvette could not be described as dull. The square steering wheel and wall of climate-control buttons on the center console are, to say the least, out-of-the-ordinary features, despite the fact that the design exceeds that of every other Chevy model. Nonetheless, the interior design is tailored to the driver, and the list of standard and available features is extensive. It has a digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, heated and ventilated seats, and wireless phone charging.
Inside, microsuede accents and aggressively bolstered seats, as well as two carbon-fiber-intensive interior packages, accentuate its track-readiness. Two sets of golf clubs should continue to fit in the Corvette’s capacious rear trunk.
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Informational Entertainment and Connectivity
Incorporated into the multilayered dashboard of the Corvette is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are included. Similarly, two distinct Bose stereos are anticipated to be available: a standard 10-speaker system and an optional 14-speaker configuration. The Z06 is also equipped with a Performance Data Recorder (PDR) that allows you to record video of everything from your track exploits to your leisurely country-road drives. And if you dare leave your Z06 with a valet, there is a setting that monitors any illegal activities the valet may attempt.
