2022 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Launch Editions detailed
Chevrolet’s first right-hand drive Corvette is coming in October this year – Launch Edition to kick off sales
Chevrolet has revealed further details of the new UK-market C8 Corvette Stingray that will arrive in October this year, including the exclusive launch edition. A new Corvette is always exciting, but the C8 is different for a few reasons. That’s because alongside its new mid-engined layout and naturally aspirated V8 engine, Chevrolet also confirmed that for the first time in its 67-year history the Corvette will be factory-built in right-hand drive.
Having already been impressed driving it in the US, local pricing and specifications have now been confirmed, building anticipation for GM’s new cut-price supercar. Arriving initially in fully loaded Launch Edition trim, it’s aggressively priced at £81,700, or around £1000 less than a basic 911 Carrera. Identically specified folding hard-top Convertible models will also be offered in the UK, priced from £87,110.
As standard, all UK Corvettes will include the desirable Z51 performance package which includes a larger Brembo brake package, a limited-slip differential, shorter axle ratio, sports exhaust system, level 1 aero package and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres.
In addition to the mechanical upgrades the C8 Corvette Launch Edition is specified to top-tier 3LT equipment level, which integrates Chevrolet’s MagneRide adaptive suspension, a performance data logger inside the infotainment system, head-up display, embedded navigation system, Bose sound system, rear camera-mirror and heated and ventilated seats. Equip a Porsche 911 to this level and you’ll be looking at a price point of over £100,000.
The powertrain is unchanged from that of American Corvettes, combining GM’s new LT2 6.2-litre atmospheric V8 and a new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. There is no manual available, nor is there likely to be one due to the low take-up over the previous C7’s life cycle. Despite being just the first of many more powerful derivatives of C8 Corvette, power is still rated at 490bhp, with a peak of 470lb ft of torque, a quite significant jump on a basic Carrera’s figures.
As mentioned above, the C8 Corvette has many firsts, but the greatest change might yet not be the new mid-engined chassis or dual-clutch transmission, but the ability to finally give European rivals a run for their money without the inherent disadvantage of being left-hand drive only. If nothing else, the Corvette will now be a much easier car to thread through a drive-through restaurant.
