The internet is ablaze with info on the newly released mid-engine Corvette Stingray. To add to this, General Motors Holden confirmed that the next-generation mid-engine Corvette will be built in right-hand-drive (RHD) and will also be for sale in New Zealand.
“Like anyone with a hint of petrol in their veins, we were glued to our screens watching the reveal of the new Corvette,” said Marc Ebolo, Managing Director of Holden New Zealand.
“The news that Corvette will now be built in right-hand-drive for the first time ever – and will be exported to New Zealand – is hugely exciting for our team at Holden and any Kiwi who loves high-performance cars. With our long history in motor-racing, performance vehicles are an indelible part of the Holden brand. Our team is totally revved up to build on Holden’s performance legacy with the most technologically advanced Corvette ever built. We look forward to taking on the European and Japanese performance vehicles with some highly sophisticated American muscle.”
It’s very exciting news, as every Corvette in New Zealand has been imported. Now you will be able to get one, but for what price?
The new mid-engine Corvette claims to bring better weight distribution, with the rear weight bias enhancing performance in a straight line and on the track. There’s also better responsiveness and sense of control due to driver positioning closer to the front axle, almost on top of the front wheels. The fastest 0-60 (0-96km/h) time of any entry Corvette ever — approximately three seconds when equipped with Z51 package, also a racecar-like view of the road due to lower positioning of the hood, instrument panel, and steering wheel. Last but not least, an enhancement of Corvette’s traditional utility strengths with dual trunks, ideal for luggage or two sets of golf clubs
Vice President of Global Design, General Motors said, “It is now the best of America, a new arrival in the mid-engine sports car class. We know Corvette can stand tall with the best the world has to offer.”
The new Corvette’s engine is Chevy’s next-generation 6.2L small block V-8 LT2 engine, the only naturally aspirated V-8 in the segment. It’s able to produce 495 horsepower (369 kW) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque when equipped with performance exhaust — the most horsepower and torque for any entry-level Corvette.
We think it’s a great looking machine and hope it lives up to all the hype. Our whole team is very excited about this news and look for to any future appearances we have to experience the new Corvette Stingray