It is finally here, and it was worth the wait.
Dubai is unlikely to be the final place where the Corvette ZR1 will make its long-awaited debut. But Chevrolet must have had good reasons to choose the 2017 Dubai Motor Show as the venue to showcase the most powerful and fastest production ‘Vette ever.
The press release states that “The King is back, stronger than ever” and that the ZR1 lives up to that promise thanks to a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 LT5 motor that produces a powerful 755 horsepower (563 kilowatts at 6,300 rpm) and a tremendous maximum torque of 715 pound feet (969 Newton-meters at 4,400 rpm). Chevy engineers created a dual fuel injector system to achieve this incredible output. This is a first for General Motors.
The bowtie company will offer the 2019 Corvette ZR1 in a seven-speed manual (with active redundancy) or an eight-speed auto. This will please both the worlds. This is the first ZR1 with an “auto box” for the first time. To cool the engine, a new “halo” carbon fiber hood was needed. This is the most powerful Chevy road-going car ever produced.
The flagship Corvette has more to it than just its powerful engine. The ZR1 has undergone a series aerodynamic upgrades in comparison to the Z06, which was the range topper. Customers can choose between the standard Low Wing or optional two-way-adjustable high wings aero packages. The Low Wing configuration will allow the ZR1 to reach speeds of more than 210 mph (338 km/h). The Corvette ZR1 with Low Wing capability still produces up to 70% more downforce than Z06.
The High Wing setup is the best option for speedy laps at the track. It boasts 60% more downforce (at an approximate 950 pounds) than Z06 equipped with the Z07 Performance Package. No matter what you choose, both ZR1 varieties will get a front underwing as standard. The optional ZTK Performance Package will be available if you select the High Wing. This includes a front splitter with carbon fiber end caps. This kit includes special tuning of chassis and Magnetic Ride Control as well as Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer tire.
If you are willing to dig deeper into your pockets, the Sebring Orange Design package adds an assortment of orange accents along with the main Sebring Orange Tantcoat paint. A bronze aluminum trim completes the transformations.
Chevy has announced that the Corvette ZR1 will be available for purchase next spring. However, it is not yet clear how much. Expect to pay significantly more than the Z06’s $79,495 MSRP starting price.