The C8 Corvette is a hit. Since its launch, Chevrolet has been overwhelmed with insatiable demand for the mid-engine sports car. Still, when coupled with the automaker’s limited supply and delayed production schedule, the recipe for a seamless launch is plagued with holes. Now, GM is suspending orders for the 2020 C8 Corvette.
“Regretfully, the launch date was delayed by the 6-week work stoppage that reduced the 2020 model year schedule,” GM said in the email.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Impressive performance
- Relatively affordable price
- The base model is well-equipped
- Comfortable and premium interior
- Striking supercar design
Cons:
- Exhaust doesn’t sound as aggressive as a supercar should
- Braking is not high on the limit
- Minimal driver aids/safety features available
Engine:
You buy a Corvette because you care about driving, and the C8 delivers on that front. That’s one of the reasons we named it Car of the Year. And even on the $60,000 car, you still get a lot for your money. The 6.2-liter V-8 engine produces 490 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, five hp, and five lb-ft less than what you get with the optional performance exhaust. Just like on the higher trims, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to the rear wheels.
C8 Corvettes ride on all-season tires, so this was our first time driving the car with the Michelin Pilot Sport all-seasons and the standard suspension. The ride is a little stiffer with this setup, but it continues to be comfortable.
Interior:
The C8’s interior design is just as good as (or perhaps even better than) its exterior design. You’ll note that the most significant difference between the 1LT (base) and 3LT (top trim) is on the dashboard, where the absence of leather is notable. But even then, you’re still getting a lot of standard equipment. The dash still has a premium feel, and you always get the contrast stitching throughout the cabin. You also get a lot of leather in the standard interior. The seats and steering wheel are wrapped in leather, and you don’t see any hard plastics.
The 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on the Corvette C8, so you don’t lose any significant technology. What you don’t get is the Performance Data Recorder (PDR), which can record the front camera’s view along with the speed and force readings when you’re on a track. You don’t get the PDR because the base C8 doesn’t come with the front camera. Another pro is the 10-speaker Bose audio system, which sounds crisp wherever you go.
Keyless access with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable GT1 bucket seats, automatic LED headlights, and a 12.0-inch digital cluster display is standard on the base C8. The removable roof panel is also standard, so every C8 can be driven topless.
2020 Corvette C8 Official Price Starts at $59,995.
