C8 Corvette ZR1 Details Reportedly Confirmed After Latest Prototype Spied
Rumors regarding the C8 Corvette ZR1 have been swirling for years, but it seems that this smoke is leading to some actual fire.
The existence of the C8 Corvette ZR1 has long been one of the worst kept secrets in the automotive world, with rumors surrounding the next king of the hill model swirling like embers from an intense fire. We’ve known for some time that the new ZR1 will offer more power than any other C8, including the track-focused Z06 and the recently-confirmed E-Ray/hybrid Corvette, but those details had yet to be set in stone. However, following a sighting of a C8 Corvette ZR1 prototype recently, Muscle Cars & Trucks claims to have confirmed the important details about this forthcoming variant.
Expected to launch in the 2025 or 2026 model year, the most important detail regarding the C8 Corvette ZR1 is what will power it – a twin-turbocharged version of the Z06’s LT6 V8 dubbed the LT7. With an output of at least 850 horsepower, this V8 will place the new ZR1 on a pedestal atop the C8 lineup, at least unless the much-rumored hybrid variant of this particular model – the Zora – comes to fruition with what some belief will be 1,000+ horsepower.
The ZR1 will also reportedly come in a traditional rear-wheel-drive format, while the electrified Zora will be offered in all-wheel-drive. As is the case with other C8 variants, it will feature its own distinctive styling cues, particularly at the front and rear, the latter of which features quad exhaust tips, as we can see on the recently-spied prototype. That car was seen testing with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, which come standard on the Z06, though higher trim levels will reportedly feature the same Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires as the Z07 package.
As perhaps the last non-electrified new Corvette model, the C8 ZR1 will certainly represent one heck of a bang for the iconic model, if these rumors indeed come to fruition. But then again, we’d expect nothing less from a model that’s long been known as the true king of the hill when it comes to America’s original sports car.
Photos: Corvette Forum, Chevrolet
Join the Corvette Forums now!
