The highly anticipated, eighth-generation, mid-engined Corvette is now a reality... but it's also just a start. There'll be many more versions to follow, including (we hope) a new Grand Sport. And this is very well what it could look like.

Something of a fan favorite, the Corvette Grand Sport (in its latest incarnation at least) bridged the gap between the base Stingray and the more hardcore Z06, keeping the former's engine but adopting the latter's wider body and upgraded rolling stock, suspension, brakes, and other components – and adding a throwback-livery option in the process.

A potential Grand Sport version of the new C8 Corvette would presumably follow along similar lines, and Abimelec Design's renderings give us a pretty good idea of what it might look like – from the acid-blue paint with its white and red stripes to the deep gold-colored wheels.

Of course, we've yet to see a new Z06 for this conceptual Grand Sport to borrow from, but those won't likely be the only additional versions of the new mid-engined 'Vette to follow. We're expecting, for example, for a convertible version to be revealed at the beginning of next month, and a new ZR1 to arrive at some point as well.

As much as we might look forward to all of those models to follow, the promise of a new Grand Sport is among those we anticipate the most. After all, the 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 powering the new Stingray is no slouch, with its 490 horsepower, 465 lb-ft of torque, and no forced induction to dampen the experience.

Now if only Chevy would give it a proper manual, we'd be all set. Because as good as the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission may be, a puristic driving machine like the Grand Sport deserves three pedals and a proper stick.