After months of spy photos, rumours, and questions, Chevrolet has just launched a quicker, faster, more powerful Corvette. The supercharged ZR1 gets a power boost and new aerodynamics to make it even more of a weapon on track.
The ZR1 starts with a new LT5 V8. The 6.2L supercharged engine is the highest output engine Chevrolet has ever put into production. It's got a new supercharger with a more efficient intercooler, direct and port fuel injection and 755 hp. That's right, 755 hp.
To go with that power is 715 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices are a seven-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic. It's the first time that the ZR1 has offered an automatic gearbox choice.
The ZR1 has a new front fascia with bigger intakes that move more air to help cool the drivetrain. There are four extra radiators, which gives the ZR1 a total of 13 heat exchangers. That's more than a Bugatti Chiron, and might be more than any other production car. The halo hood is open in the middle to clear the supercharger and allow more airflow.
Chevrolet is offering the ZR1 with two aerodynamic packages. The Low Wing gives more top speed and boosts downforce by 70 percent from the base Z06. The High Wing is adjustable for maximum downforce. It offers up to 432 kg of downforce at speed.
The High Wing comes with the ZTK Performance Package. The track-ready package offers a front splitter with carbon end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 semi-slick tires, revised suspension settings, and a different calibration for the magnetic shocks that improves cornering grip.
The ZR1 will offer amazing performance but retains driver comforts inside. Like leather seats with suede microfiber inserts. Nappa leather seats with heat and cooling are also on the options list. And where else will you see a carbon-fibre steering wheel, performance data recorder, and Bose audio on the same options list?
The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will go on sale in the spring.
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