The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray: A Landmark Arrival in Europe
With the dawning of a new era, the highly anticipated mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette Stingray finally anchors its wheels on European soil. Shattering its long-held conventions, the American beast rolls out with left- or right-hand drive configurations for the first time in the Corvette lineage. Now, European speed enthusiasts can experience the profound shift in the Corvette's evolution with their very own bespoke masterpiece.
Wave of Corvette Coupes and Convertibles Begins
The wait for the European iteration of the Corvette Stingray ends as the inaugural customers receive their launch edition coupes and convertibles. Meanwhile, those still contemplating can now meticulously tailor-make their Corvette, an option unprecedented in Corvette's history. A plethora of exterior and interior configurations available with two trim levels elevate the customization process, adding a personal touch to the American icon.
Shaping an Epoch: From Front- to Mid-Engine
Shifting the engine from the front to the mid-section has marked a revolutionary milestone in the Corvette's rich 67-year history. This transformative development, as underscored by Caspar Winkelmann, Head of Product and Marketing of Chevrolet Europe, offers an exhilarating driving dynamic. It maintains the Stingray's familiar essence while elevating performance to a new pinnacle. Above all, the adoption of a factory-built right-hand-drive layout, unique to the European model, will surely excite UK customers.
Boosting Performance and Luxury: Z51 and 2LT Trims as Standard
European Corvette Stingrays come standard with the Z51 Performance Package, a fitment exclusively crafted to gratify the discerning tastes of European sportscar aficionados. This package amps up the car's agility and stability, integrating elements like adjustable suspension, Brembo® brakes, an electronic limited slip differential, a performance exhaust system, and Michelin® Pilot® Sport 4S tires.
Furthermore, all European models come in the 2LT trim as standard, furnishing features that outstrip the entry-level US model. Additional elements such as a performance data recorder, head-up display, navigation system, a 14-speaker Bose sound system, and heated and ventilated seats add a splash of luxury and convenience to the thrilling ride.
Customizing the Beast: Variety of Trims and Options
The mid-engine Corvette offers a broad palette of customization options for European customers. Exterior detail options, interior color themes, a selection of seats, and various wheel designs let each customer sculpt their own unique Corvette. An optional front suspension lift system further refines the driving experience, providing an additional 50 mm (about 2 inches) of ground clearance at low speeds, up to 38 km/h (about 24 mph).
The Heart of Corvette: 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8
The new Corvette Stingray houses Chevrolet’s latest-generation 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8, the only naturally aspirated V8 in its segment. Coupled with the Z51 package’s performance exhaust system and a new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, it produces 482 PS (476 HP) @ 6,450 rpm and 613 Nm (452 lb-ft) @ 4,500 rpm of peak torque. This powertrain setup establishes the new mid-engined Corvette as the most potent Stingray to date, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 296 km/h (184 mph).
Pricing and Availability
As for the pricing, the Corvette Stingray starts at €86,900 in Germany and £74,200 in the UK for the coupe version, while the convertible version begins at €93,400 in Germany and £79,200 in the UK. Dealerships across Europe are all set to host the Corvette Stingray from October 2021 onwards.
In conclusion, with the mid-engine overhaul, the 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray in its European specification promises a blend of thrilling performance, technological advancements, and bespoke personalization. This unique blend may very well pave the way for a new chapter in the Corvette legacy in Europe.
-Ed
2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (Euro-Spec)
