The new Z06 features significant aero improvements, a stiffer chassis and the new supercharged engine: all for a price starting at $78,995.
If you’re looking to get behind the wheel of the new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 be prepared to write a big check. In fact, it’ll cost you a $2k more than it did last year to buy the 2015 Z06, which starts at $78,995. The convertible comes in at $83,995.
For that, you get a beast featuring a 6.2-liter V8 pumping out 650 horsepower and 650 pound feet of torque: the most powerful car General Motors has ever produced. Not only do buyers get plenty of power, the automaker has also improved the ride and handling through the use of aerodynamic design, improved ride control functions and a stiffer frame.
“The 2015 Corvette Z06’s performance and technical capabilities place it in the elite fraternity of supercars,” said Harlan Charles, Corvette product and marketing manager.
They also get better fuel economy courtesy of a couple of changes. The first is the use GM’s active fuel management system that disables cylinders when the car is cruising at highway speeds.
The rear wing is adjustable so weekend warriors can maximize their track time.
The second is the new eight-speed automatic Chevy debuts on the Z06. The new tranny was necessary because the old six-speed couldn’t handle the latest tweaks to the LT4 engine. However, it also improves the Corvette’s fuel economy by 3.5% to 29 mpg highway. Additionally, it produces a zero-to-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds. In fact, the Z06 with an automatic is faster than the manual.
The Z06 is offered in three trim packages – 1LZ, 2LZ and 3LZ – with a variety of features including a leather-wrapped interior; competition sport seats offered in leather or sueded microfiber; carbon fiber interior trim and convertible tonneau cover inserts; and tintcoat exterior colors, several available wheel finishes and several available brake caliper colors.
It also gets performance data recorder and navigation that allows drivers to record their lap times on the track. It also has a valet mode that can disable the infotainment system, lock the cars storage areas and can shoot video of the road ahead, record in-car audio and digitally track the car’s movements.
The driver can retrieve the information and display it on the car’s eight-inch control screen immediately upon retrieving the car, or download it to a computer for later review.
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While the newest iteration is laden with new technologies and capabilities, but buyers can always purchase a few add-ons that push the cost closer to $100,000.
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The price jumps when buyers add extras from the Corvette Racing program, including the $2,995 Carbon Fiber Ground Effects package, which improves the vehicle’s downforce for increased stability at high speeds. For just shy of $3,000, you get a functional carbon fiber front splitter, carbon fiber rocker panels and a larger rear spoiler.
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If that’s not enough, for another $7,995 owners can add the Z07 Performance Package, which basically makes the Z06 track-capable, but street legal. This adds Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance and contribute to better handling through reduced unsprung weight.
The Z07 package adds adjustable front and rear aerodynamic components to the Carbon Fiber Ground Effects package for unprecedented aerodynamic downforce and Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires for enhanced grip.