IT’S A BEST BUY BECAUSE:
This level of overall performance usually costs thousands—if not tens of thousands—more.
BUT…
Ingress and egress to the low-set seats can be challenging, and all the high-tech features complicate the control layout.
WORTH NOTING:
Even on base models, 0-60 mph takes less than four seconds. ‘Nuff said.
WHAT IS IT?
Corvette is a two-seat, rear-drive sports car available as a coupe with a removable “targa” roof panel and rear hatchback, and as a convertible with a power-folding soft top and conventional trunk. The “base” engine is a 6.2-liter V8 with 455 horsepower (or 460 with the optional “free flow” exhaust system—which sounds terrific—included in the sporty Z51 Package), which can be coupled to either a 7-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The ultra-performance Z06 model boasts a supercharged, 650-horsepower 6.2-liter V8, along with an upgraded suspension and lots of exclusive high-performance hardware. Like the rest of the Corvette lineup, the Z06 is offered as a coupe or convertible, and with manual- or automatic transmission.
WHAT’S NEW?
The Corvette sees a number of incremental improvements and additions for 2016. The interior gets a flat-bottomed steering wheel and an updated MyLink infotainment system with Apple CarPlay capability. Magnetic Ride Control availability is expanded to non-Z51 models, a front curb-view parking camera is available, and both the coupe hatch and convertible trunk lids gain a power-cinching feature. Also new are a raft of appearance options, including new paint and interior-trim choices; new wheel designs; an available hood with a visible carbon-fiber weave; and themed interior/exterior Design Packages named Twilight Blue, Spice Red, and Jet Black Suede. A specially trimmed C7.R Edition for Z06 models pays tribute to the Corvette Racing C7.R race cars and will be limited to 500 units.
FUEL ECONOMY
Corvette’s EPA numbers are impressive considering the performance offered: 17 city/29 highway with the manual transmission, and 16/29 with the automatic. The Z06 is significantly thirstier; it’s rated at 15/22 with the manual transmission and 13/23 with the automatic. Premium-grade gas is recommended but not required on base Corvettes and required on the Z06.
VALUE IN CLASS
Although there are a handful of cars that are quicker than a base Corvette, most cost multiples as much. As such, the Corvette makes its mark as a performance bargain. But it’s really much more than that. It’s also a comfortable touring car with luxurious interior, decent cargo space, and all the latest infotainment gizmos. The uber-performance Z06 model only solidifies the Corvette’s standing as a premium world-class sports car that doesn’t cost as much as all the other premium world-class sports cars.
| BASE PRICE RANGE | $55,400 – $83,400 |
| BODY STYLES | 2-DOOR COUPE, 2-DOOR CONVERTIBLE |
| AVAILABLE ENGINES | 455/460-HP, 6.2-LITER V8, SUPERCHARGED 650-HP 6.2-LITER V8 |
| DRIVE WHEELS | Rear |
| BUILT IN | USA |
| EPA FUEL-ECONOMY RANGE | 13-29 MPG |
Other Best Buys in this Class
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