2018 Detroit NAIAS (Jan 2018) Coverage – 2019 MY Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The 2018 Detroit NAIAS offered onlookers an opportunity to see (albeit under rather dim lighting conditions, and with it’s hood left opened) a roped-off 2019 MY Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. 

While pricing was not officially disclosed at the NAIAS, ahead of it’s debut at the L.A. Auto Show in November (a few weeks earlier) GM executives hinted that it would start at $119,995, while the convertible would start at $123,995, but at the same time make the vehicle approximately 60-lbs lighter. Current buzz indicates pricing could go another $20,000 - $30,000 higher before the Stickers are printed and it shows up at the Dealership.

What comes standard on the ZR1 is an LT5 small block 6.2L supercharged V8, with SAE-certified 755 horsepower and 715 lb.-ft of torque, mated with a 7-speed manual transmission. 

Also standard, is a Carbon-fiber halo (donut hole) hood, along with Carbon-fiber front splitter, rockers and rear wing air reflector. Additional niceties includes Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, electronic limited-slip differential, magnetic selective Ride Control, and additional front cooling elements (five new heat exchangers).

Separating the vehicle from the road are ZR1 19-inch front, 20-inch rear Pearl Nickel-painted wheels paired with Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer-only timers (P285/30ZR19 front, P335/25ZR20 rear). 

In summary, the Corvette ZR1 (with Production expected to begin March, 2018) may be the perfect Performance bridge vehicle that satisfies Corvette enthusiasts until the new Mid-Engine Corvette comes out in the not too distant future - - rumored to start Production sometime in early 2019 CY.