What is it? The highest-performance Chevrolet Corvette in history makes its debut in the Motor City, resurrecting a moniker once-affixed another milestone Vette. GM expects the new ZR1 to be the first production Corvette to achieve a top speed of at least 200 mph.
The extroverted exterior uses weight-saving carbon-fiber for the hood, front fenders, front air splitter, and roof. In many places, the carbon weave is exposed as a design element, covered by clear-coat paint. The hood has a polycarbonate window to reveal the engine intercooler.
The ZR1 shares the aluminum-intensive chassis with the Z06, tuned to this higher-performance application. It has a similar front and rear aluminum suspension, adjusted to work with the large 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels. Behind the 20-spoke wheels are vented and cross-drilled disc brakes, measuring 15-inches front and 15.5-inches rear. A standard dynamic shock system automatically adjusts to driving needs, shifting quickly from road compliance to track firmness.
Enhancing the Z06 cabin, the ZR1 is distinguished with stitched logos, sill plates, and unique instrument panel that adds a boost gauge and 220-mph speedometer.
What is new or notable? The limited-production American super car is powered by a hand-built 6.2L V8 engine producing "at least" 620 horsepower and 595 pounds-feet of torque. The high output is facilitated by a Roots-type supercharger. It uses a six-speed manual transmission.
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
