Corvette Stingray Coupe

Make
Chevrolet
Segment
Coupe

Here's what we know already: the highly anticipated C7 Corvette will look similar to the current C6 model in terms of styling, which has been described as evolutionary. In other words, it won't be mistaken for anything but a Corvette. It will remain front-engined and rear-wheel drive, but will have dropped a significant amount of weight, partly aided by the use of carbon fiber panels that will replace the fiberglass ones currently used. That all sounds solid to us, but what will be under the hood?

GM has just confirmed today that the C7 Corvette will pack a new 6.2-liter LT1 V8 under the hood and not a downsized 5.5-liter unit as previously speculated. The new engine will incorporate technologies such as direct injection and variable valve timing to help bring fuel economy up to 26 mpg on the highway highway. Total power output will be at least 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, amounting to an additional 20 hp and 26 lb-ft over the current LS3 small-block V8. Chevrolet engineers are predicting the C7 will hit 60 mph in less than four seconds but so far nothing has been mentioned regarding top speed.

Like the outgoing C6, the new Vette will have a base price of around $50,000. However, it's also a distinct possibility that Chevrolet will eventually downsize the base engine offering. According to Autocar, don't be surprised to see something like a twin-turbo V6 added to the C7 engine lineup at some point, but don't expect for such an engine to be ready for the car's official debut this January at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. To keep interests piqued, Chevy has also released the new evolution of the Corvette logo that will adorn the new model, much like SRT did before the new Viper's unveiling.