The Chevrolet Corvette is the definitive American sports car. Born around 70 years ago, the Corvette is now in its eighth generation, called the C8. Actually, it has been two years since Chevy launched the C8 Corvette into the market.
HotCars’ Michael Van Runkle recently took a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette for a quick drive, and this is what he can say about this American sports car.
Driving A Maxed-Out Optioned 2022 Corvette Stingray
Michael actually drove a maxed-out 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray with the 3LT and Z51 options, as well as Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension and a front-axle lift setup. A base Corvette has a tag of $60,900, but this maxed-out 'Vette has a total price of $88,225, which already includes its $1,295 destination charge. This already seemed to be a lot of money, but Michael begs to differ.
This 2022 Corvette Stingray really pales in comparison with the Corvette Z06. Nevertheless, it is still a sleek monster of its own. It has a 6.2-liter LT2 V8 engine, and thanks to Z51's upgraded exhaust, offers five more hp than the base model at 495 hp of output. An eight-speed DCT sends this output and 470 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels.
As for its actual performance on the road, power somewhat takes a backseat in terms of driver dynamics, especially when tackling tight corners.
Several Pros And Cons, Both Inside And Out
Styling-wise, the 2022 Corvette Stingray does really look like a true sports car. However, as Michael pointed out, the Corvette’s angular, showy exterior seemed more of a con, than a pro. Interestingly, the interior is also problematic as well, especially when it comes to its ergonomics. A number of elements are quite baffling, include button layout on the center console.
Nevertheless, the interior does have a number of strong points. That includes the various pre-set drive modes (Tour, Weather, Sport, and Track) and the customizable ones (My Mode and Z-Mode). Although Michael pointed out the lag on the 12-inch touchscreen when switching modes, he loved the fact that he can customize the vehicle with My Mode. His other complaint is that the computer returns to Tour mode (default) instead of My Mode, when clicking out of the Z-Mode.
Corvette Stingray Is A Borderline Supercar
Michael called the 2022 Corvette Stingray a borderline supercar. He remarked that it seemed Chevy crammed 70% of a McLaren 600LT into a sports car that is around a quarter or a third (depending on spec) of its cost.
Source: Michael Van Runkle of HotCars