CHEVROLET has stolen the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170’s thunder in providing essentially the most highly effective American manufacturing V8 but in its new-for-2025 Corvette ZR1.
Packing an infinite 783kW (1064hp) and 1123Nm – or 19kW extra and 158Nm lower than the SRT Demon 170 – the MY25 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1’s midship LT7-series 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged V8 channels its energy to the rear wheels by way of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Chevrolet has not supplied a 0-100km/h time for the Corvette ZR1 however says it is going to conquer the 0-400m dash in lower than 10 seconds on its solution to a prime pace of “over 215mph” (347km/h) – or 33km/h greater than the Corvette Z07.
“The group that revolutionised Corvette with a mid-engine structure took on one other problem: take ZR1 to the subsequent stage,” mentioned Chevrolet vp Scott Bell.
“(The) Corvette ZR1 is about pushing the envelope with uncooked energy and cutting-edge innovation. From Stingray, to Z06, E-Ray, and now ZR1, the Corvette household continues to raise with every new iteration – and problem the most effective on the earth.”
Mannequin-specific aerodynamic and cooling components allow prolonged observe efficiency and as a lot as 1200lb (544kg) of downforce at prime pace. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S excessive efficiency tyres are wrapped round 20-inch aluminium wheels up entrance and 21-inchers on the rear, the trip mentioned to mix the “greatest on-road consolation and observe functionality” attainable.
Braking duties fall to 400mm ceramic rotors and six-piston callipers on the pointy finish and 390mm discs and four-pot clamps up again. The brand new braking bundle is alleged to “yield elevated sturdiness and lowered brake element temperatures”, aiding an 80-200-80mph (128-322-128km/h) time of simply 24.5 seconds – 22 per cent faster than the C7 Corvette ZR1.
Chevrolet has reinstated the long-lasting cut up rear-window with the ZR1, recalling that of the ’63 model-year Stingray of which simply over 10,000 had been constructed. Quietly previewed on the latest Corvette Z06 GT3.R race automotive, the “assertion piece” includes a carbon-fibre “backbone” between two panes of glass, accessible in uncovered weave or physique color.
“We didn’t strategy this choice calmly, we all know it is a beloved ingredient from Corvette’s historical past,” mentioned Chevrolet government design director Phil Zak.
“Not solely does this ingredient present operate, however we had been capable of combine passionate design into the shape and do it in a approach that paid homage to Corvette’s historical past. ZR1 felt like the fitting time to convey the split-window again.”
Further stylistic adjustments for the 2025 mannequin yr embrace a carbon-fibre roof, a selection of 4 aluminium wheel finishes, an optionally available Aussie-made carbon-fibre wheel bundle, and engine consumption chamber in Edge Blue. New paint colors embrace Competitors Yellow, Hysteria Purple, and Sebring Orange.
Inside, the ZR1 “dials up the eye to element” with distinctive badging, a brand new sew sample, further blue highlights, a lift gauge, and a wider array of upholstery colors, together with Habanero.
“We went into the ZR1 program with lofty targets, however even our first growth checks on-track confirmed the groups had been already exceeding them,” mentioned Corvette government chief engineer Tadge Juechter.
“As we labored to develop this automotive, we continued to leap previous expectations, and we knew we had a particular Corvette on our palms.”
Native importer GMSV mentioned that at this stage it has no plans to introduce the Corvette ZR1 to its Australian portfolio.
