The radical new mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette can now officially be ordered by UK enthusiasts – in right-hand drive form.Â
After being unveiled at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed, both the coupe and convertible versions are up for grabs.Â
Although the Corvette has been offered in the UK before, this is the first time it has appeared in right-hand drive form.
Right-hand drive at last
A move to a mid-engined layout shocked American Corvette purists. But, the new packaging makes a right-hand drive model simpler to build, letting Chevrolet offer the Corvette to more markets.
Japan has already taken delivery of the first right-hand drive C8 Corvettes, with the UK and Australia to follow later this year.
Unlike unofficial imports, European-specification Corvettes will be homologated to meet emissions regulations. Helping achieve this is the addition of a gasoline particulate filter.
Performance packs as standard
Being fully homologated for Europe has affected the 6.2-litre LT1 V8 engine powering the new Corvette.
Output is still a considerable 469hp and 452lb-ft of torque, with all versions using an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.Â
However, full-fat American versions of the Corvette offer 495hp and 465lb-ft of torque, when fitted with the optional Z51 Performance Package.Â
All UK cars will at least come with the Z51 package. This means Brembo brakes, an electronic limited slip differential, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres come as standard.
Despite the lower power output, a UK-specification Corvette will still be capable of 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds. Top speed will be a respectable 184mph, too.
Competitive pricing included
UK and European Corvettes will start at the higher-specification 2LT trim. This includes a Bose sound system, rear-view camera, and a performance data recorder.
Initial launch models, offered in a selection of 16 different interior and exterior colour combinations, will use the top 3LT specification. Carbon fibre detailing, and magnetically adjustable suspension, mark out these cars.
UK prices for the launch edition Corvette Stingray coupe begin at £81,700, with the Corvette Convertible priced at £87,110. Choosing additional colour combinations will add £1,750 to the price tag.
Chevrolet promises that the eighth-generation Corvette will hit dealerships – including the single UK Chevrolet retailer in Virginia Warter, Surrey – across Europe from October 2021.
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