2026 Chevy Corvette Z06 Release Date
Release Date and Timeline
The 2026 Chevy Corvette Z06 is expected to be released in late 2025 as a 2026 model. The exact release date has not been officially announced by Chevrolet, but it is anticipated to arrive in dealerships sometime in the fall of 2025. There have been no reported production delays or anticipated setbacks at this time. The Z06 will be built at the Corvette Assembly Plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky, alongside the standard Corvette.
Production Schedule
Production of the 2026 Corvette Z06 is expected to begin in the summer of 2025. The first models will be delivered to dealerships in the fall of 2025, and production will continue through the 2026 model year.
Performance and Specifications
The 2026 Corvette Z06 promises to deliver exceptional performance, building upon the legacy of its predecessors.
The heart of the Z06 is expected to be a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine, a departure from the previous generation’s supercharged V8. This new engine is rumored to produce an astonishing 670 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
The Z06’s acceleration figures are anticipated to be equally impressive. With its lightweight construction and powerful engine, the Z06 is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds and reach a top speed of over 200 mph.
In comparison to previous generations, the 2026 Z06 is expected to outperform the C7 Z06, which had 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, and accelerate faster than the C8 Stingray, which goes from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. It is also likely to rival or surpass competing models like the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and the Lamborghini Huracan STO in terms of performance.
Engine Specifications
The 2026 Corvette Z06’s 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine is expected to feature the following specifications:
– Bore and stroke: 104mm x 82mm
– Compression ratio: 13.5:1
– Redline: 9000 rpm
– Dry-sump lubrication system
This engine design is known for its high-revving capabilities and is expected to provide an exhilarating and responsive driving experience.
Horsepower and Torque
The 2026 Corvette Z06’s 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine is expected to produce:
– Horsepower: 670 hp
– Torque: 470 lb-ft
These figures represent a significant increase over the previous generation Z06, which had 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
Acceleration Figures
The 2026 Corvette Z06’s performance capabilities are expected to be exceptional, with acceleration figures that rival supercars:
– 0 to 60 mph: Under 3 seconds
– 0 to 100 mph: Under 6 seconds
– Top speed: Over 200 mph
These figures are estimates based on the expected power output and lightweight construction of the Z06.
Design and Exterior
The 2026 Corvette Z06 takes the iconic design of the Corvette to the next level, featuring a more aggressive and aerodynamic exterior.
The front end is dominated by a large, trapezoidal grille with sharp angles and a prominent splitter. The headlights are sleek and narrow, giving the car a menacing look. The hood has a raised center section with vents to help cool the engine.
The side profile is highlighted by flared fenders and sculpted door panels. The rear end features a large rear wing and a quad exhaust system. The taillights are thin and wrap around the corners of the car.
The Corvette Z06 is available in a wide range of colors, including Arctic White, Black, Blade Silver Metallic, Elkhart Lake Blue, Hypersonic Gray Metallic, Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat, Rapid Blue, Red Mist Metallic Tintcoat, Shadow Gray Metallic, and Zeus Bronze Metallic.
The Z06 also offers several special editions, including the Carbon Edition and the Z07 Performance Package. The Carbon Edition features a carbon fiber front splitter, rear spoiler, and side skirts. The Z07 Performance Package adds adjustable aerodynamic components, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes.
Interior and Technology
The 2026 Corvette Z06’s interior combines performance-oriented elements with premium comfort and advanced technology.
The cabin features a driver-centric design with a low seating position, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and supportive bucket seats. The interior is upholstered in high-quality leather and Alcantara, and the carbon fiber accents add a sporty touch.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Z06 comes equipped with a state-of-the-art infotainment system featuring a 12-inch touchscreen display. The system offers intuitive controls, smartphone integration, and navigation.
Advanced technologies include a head-up display, a Bose premium audio system, and a performance data recorder. The Z06 also features a range of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Corvette Z06 is expected to have a starting price in the range of $85,000 to $95,000. This price range is slightly higher than the current C8 Corvette Stingray, but it is still significantly lower than the previous-generation C7 Corvette Z06.
The Z06 will be available in a variety of trim levels, including the base 1LT, the mid-level 2LT, and the top-of-the-line 3LT. Each trim level will offer a different set of features and options.
The Z06 will also be available with a variety of packages and options. Some of the most popular packages are expected to include the Z07 Performance Package, which adds track-focused features such as a carbon fiber rear wing and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and the Carbon Fiber Package, which adds carbon fiber components to the exterior and interior.
Ordering for the 2026 Corvette Z06 is expected to begin in late 2025. The first deliveries are expected to take place in early 2026. Due to the high demand for the Z06, potential buyers should expect to wait several months for their car to arrive.
Competition and Comparisons
The 2026 Corvette Z06 will compete with a select group of high-performance sports cars. Its closest rivals include the Porsche 911 Turbo S, McLaren 720S, and Ferrari F8 Tributo. The Corvette Z06 offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and value compared to these competitors.
In terms of performance, the Corvette Z06 boasts a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 engine that produces 670 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a Tremec 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. The Corvette Z06 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds and has a top speed of 195 mph.
The Porsche 911 Turbo S is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter flat-six engine that produces 640 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. The McLaren 720S is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. The Ferrari F8 Tributo is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine that produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of features, the Corvette Z06 comes standard with a host of performance-oriented features, including magnetic ride control, Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. The Porsche 911 Turbo S, McLaren 720S, and Ferrari F8 Tributo also come with a range of performance-oriented features, but some of these features are optional extras.
In terms of pricing, the Corvette Z06 has a starting price of $125,000. The Porsche 911 Turbo S has a starting price of $203,500. The McLaren 720S has a starting price of $308,000. The Ferrari F8 Tributo has a starting price of $296,000.
Overall, the Corvette Z06 offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and value compared to its competitors. It is a true supercar that is capable of delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
FAQ Summary
When is the 2026 Chevy Corvette Z06 expected to be released?
The 2026 Chevy Corvette Z06 is expected to be released in late 2025 as a 2026 model.
What is the expected horsepower of the 2026 Corvette Z06?
The 2026 Corvette Z06 is expected to have a naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces over 600 horsepower.
What are the key design features of the 2026 Corvette Z06?
The 2026 Corvette Z06 is expected to feature a more aggressive design than the standard Corvette, with wider fenders, a larger rear wing, and a more pronounced front splitter.
What are the expected pricing and availability of the 2026 Corvette Z06?
The 2026 Corvette Z06 is expected to start at around $100,000, with higher prices for higher trim levels and options. It is expected to be available in both coupe and convertible body styles.