Overview
The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is a two-seat, mid-engine sports car powered by a 490-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 matched with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. An available dual-mode exhaust system increases output to 495 hp. Coupe and convertible body styles are available. The coupe has a lift-off Targa-style center roof section, while convertibles use a retractable hardtop.
The 670-hp Corvette Z06 has even more potent performance (and a notably steeper price tag), but it’s still docile enough to be a daily driver. The all-wheel-drive E-Ray is similarly pricey, but its 655-hp hybrid powertrain is a technological tour de force. The ZR1 was added to the lineup for 2025 and is a tour de force, period, pumping out up to 1,250 hp. In all its forms, the Corvette offers supercar style and performance at a bargain price compared with cars such as the Lotus Emira and Porsche 911.
What’s New for 2026
The Corvette gets a revamped interior for 2026, including a larger 12.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 14-inch digital instrument panel, along with a new 6.6-inch auxiliary touchscreen to the left of the driver. The ZR1 gets a standard new carbon-fiber display hood over the driver information center with customization options, something available as an option with the E-Ray and Z06. A smaller drive mode controller makes room for a new wireless charging pad, and passengers get a grab handle and a USB-C port. Cupholders now have ambient lighting, and 2LT and 3LT trims now come with real aluminum trim. An available electrochromic roof for coupe models lets drivers choose the degree of tint in the glass at the press of a button.
Comparison to Rivals
The Chevrolet Corvette remains a genuine bargain among sports cars, delivering performance rivaling that of European exotics that cost twice as much or more. Improvements to the Corvette’s interior for 2026 increase that appeal. The rear-engine Porsche 911 delivers impressive power and pinpoint handling but has a starting price close to double that of a Corvette, and that can go up quickly with options. The Lotus Emira is another mid-engine option and stays true to the Lotus mantra of lightweight performance with a supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 and 400 hp. The Emira is available with a manual transmission, something you can’t get in a Corvette. However, Emira prices start at over six figures, a big jump from the $72,495 starting price of a Corvette.
