Chevrolet Philippines has finally brought the eighth-generation Corvette to our market, over two years since the model made its world premiere. Setting aside the CERV (Chevrolet Engineering Research Vehicle) prototype vehicles from 1959 to 1997, this is the nameplate’s first mid-engine model.
Revolution - The Mid-Engine Corvette Story
The current iteration is dubbed the Stingray, a moniker that traces its roots all the way to the second-generation model in 1963. While units released in the U.S. come in three trim levels and two body styles (targa top coupe, retractable hardtop convertible), the Philippine version comes exclusively as the range-topping 3LT variant fitted with the Z51 Performance Package.
Much like the first-generation Corvette which pioneered the use of lightweight materials in the form of fiberglass body panels, the C8 Stingray is built on an all-new architecture that uses aluminum.
Exterior
The 2022 Corvette Stingray builds on the aggressive design motif established by the seventh-generation model, featuring increased body length (4,630mm) width (1,933mm), and wheelbase (2,723mm). A pointed fascia incorporates enlarged air intakes, flanked by low-profile projector headlamps.
The chiseled exterior incorporates extensive aerodynamic elements
A steeply raked windshield follows the curvature of the hood in profile and leads the forward-canopy design, accompanied by the sculpted design’s character lines and generous side scoops. The smallish window on the rear hatch is framed by heat vents, leading to the rear wing perched above striking arrow-shaped LED tail lamps.
The Z51 rear spoiler enhances the new Corvette Stingray’s looks and aerodynamic performance, while the exhaust tips embedded within the rear diffuser feature double walling to withstand extreme heat. Oversized fenders accommodate 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels that freely show off the calipers clamping down on standard Brembo disc brakes.
Interior
There’s only one other option you get aside from taking the wheel of the 2022 Stingray, and that’s riding shotgun. Both GT2 bucket seats hand-wrapped in leather are separated by a towering center console that looks purpose-built for social distancing.
The Corvette Stingray's driver-centric cockpit
Available carbon fiber and leather interior trim further emphasize the C8 Stingray’s racing nature, while a floor console with covered storage allow you to stow valuables with ease.
Tech & Safety
Driver’s take control of the new C8 Stingray with a redesigned steering wheel featuring a flat top and bottom, accompanied by a 12-inch configurable digital instrument cluster. To prevent distractions that the screen might cause, a heads-up display (HUD) is also included, projecting vehicle data on the windshield. The dual-zone climate control features an air filtration system, while an 8-inch Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Premium System offers navigation along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
A Performance Data Recorder also works as a built-in dash cam
Front and side impact airbags are standard, along with all-speed traction control and driver-assist features such as rear cross-traffic alert and rear park assist. There’s also a Performance Data Recorder that can log and analyze the car's operation on the road and track. A high-definition camera can be set to record automatically, practically serving as an onboard dashcam.
Engine & Drivetrain
The star of the 2022 Chevrolet Corvette show is a 6.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 cranking out 474 horsepower and 613 Nm of torque. All that output is delivered to the rear wheels by an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with the new Corvette needing only 3.5 seconds to reach 100 kilometers per hour from a standstill.
That hulking V8 engine sits right behind the occupants
More than 180 kilograms of downforce is made possible by the car’s aero bits, helped along by the low center of gravity, coilover spring setup, and mid-engine architecture. An electronic limited-slip differential improves traction and stability during high-speed cornering.
Pricing
According to Chevrolet Philippines, the 2022 Chevrolet Corvette carries a sticker price of Php 9,915,888 in a choice of five exterior colors (Torch Red, Arctic White, Ceramic Matrix Gray Metallic, Silver Flare Metallic, and Hypersonic Gray Metallic) against an interior comprising Adrenaline Red with Jet Black. This will prove to be a relatively more affordable alternative to gray market units.
No more resorting to gray market purchases just to have your very own Corvette C8
Every purchase of the new C8 Stingray from authorized dealerships also brings a 5-year/100,000-kilometer warranty. If the 2022 Corvette has more than piqued your curiosity, you can check it out at any of the 22 Chevrolet Philippines dealerships nationwide.
Arm yourself with knowledge of the latest releases at Philkotse.com.