Chevrolet has finally unveiled the 2015 Corvette Z06 at the Detroit Auto Show, with the performance version of the Corvette Stingray surely bringing up a few surprises. First of all, Chevrolet says that with the track-focused Z07 performance package the car delivers faster lap times than the 2013 Corvette ZR1!

Furthermore, the 2015 Corvette Z06 is the first Z06 model to offer a supercharged engine, a removable roof panel and an available paddle-shift 8-speed automatic transmission (yes, you also have the option of a manual).

The car features a new LT4 6.2-liter supercharged engine that is expected to deliver at least 625hp and 635 lb-ft of torque (861 Nm). Featuring direct injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing, the unit is linked to a standard 7-speed manual gearbox or an available 8-speed auto. Engine power is boosted by the new 1.7L Eaton R1740 TVS supercharger, which spins at up to 20,000 rpm – 5,000 rpm more than the supercharger on the Corvette ZR1’s LS9.

Chevrolet offers a track-focused Z07 Performance Package that adds unique components to increase aerodynamic downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires for enhanced grip and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors. Currently under development testing, the Z07 package has already recorded some of the fastest lap times ever for a Corvette, surpassing even the ZR1.

Just like the Corvette Stingray it’s based upon, the Corvette Z06 features an aluminum frame, which will also be used by the Corvette Racing C7.R. The stiffer aluminum frame has allowed Chevrolet to offer the Z06 with a removable roof panel for the first time.

As the car features wider tires, the fenders of the Z06 are extended by 2.2 inches (56mm) at the front and 3.15 inches (80mm) at the rear, offering the car a wider, lower appearance that is also highlighted by a unique rear fascia. On the Z06, the taillamps are pushed approximately three inches farther apart, toward the edges of the body.

The Z06 offers three, increasing levels of aerodynamic downforce: standard Z06, carbon-fiber aero package and Z07 package. The latter makes the Corvette Z06 deliver the most amount of aerodynamic downforce of any GM production car.

On the inside, the Z06 gets unique color schemes and a flat-bottomed steering wheel, as well as two seating choices: a comfort-oriented GT seat and a Competition Sport seat with more aggressive side bolstering.

Chevrolet did not reveal performance data or pricing, but said the Z06 will arrive in early 2015 with the smart electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) as a standard feature.

By Dan Mihalascu

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