Preview by Veeno Dewan,
Corvette fans rejoice as the new 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 debuts, building on the current Z06 Corvette. The prototypes already show the ZR1 as a wide-body design similar to the Z06 but with new aerodynamic aids to further increase downforce. The sharp, angular, swoopy design includes dramatic new vents in the front hood, a substantial rear wing, and a bewildering array of scoops, splitters, and appendages. A secondary side intake is also featured in each of the rear fenders. The new ZR1 and its upgraded Zora Edition will ramp up power, performance, and technology to rival the best from Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, and Porsche. The over-the-top styling, race-car-inspired aerodynamics, and engineering work in the engine, transmission, and suspension areas will balance the superb acceleration, handling, and braking.
Also, expect an even more powerful hybridized model to arrive in 2026, with an electric motor pushing the Corvette toward the 1000-horsepower mark. According to auto insiders, the powertrain for the ZR1 is a twin-turbocharged version of the 5.5-liter V-8 found in the Z06. The Z06’s naturally aspirated V-8 already produces 670 hp, while adding a pair of turbochargers should let the engine hit the rumored benchmark of 850 hp. This will likely be routed to the rear wheels via the same 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in the current generation Corvettes. The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is expected to start at around $150,000. The ZR1 will retain the big carbon-fiber ceramic brakes or ceramic options from the current Z06 to stop and accelerate.
Fittingly, Chevy will name its new top-dog Corvette “Zora,” after the famous GM chief engineer, Zora Arkus-Duntov. Duntov was instrumental in upping the 1960s Corvettes’ performance development in the 1960’s. The Zora hybrid will increase its power and performance to compete in the hypercar arena against the forthcoming electrified Lamborghini Aventador replacement and the Ferrari SF90 Stradale.
With higher performance upgrades, the Zora model will be priced north of $200,000. Like the Z06 and ZR-1, the Zora variant will remain with a rear-drive and many aerodynamic elements, such as a larger rear wing, a front splitter, and a Z07-style track package. The Zora looks to be the quickest Corvette while remaining a daily driver as docile, comfortable, and well-mannered as the Z06.
The Zora adds an Electric hybrid drive in the form of a 160-hp electric motor from the electric Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, which mates to the ZR-1 engine. The electric motor is rated at 160 hp in the E-Ray, which, combined with the ZR1’s twin-turbo V-8, would take the combined output in the Zora to the 1,000-hp mark. Top acceleration is around 0-96 kph in about 1.9 seconds.
The Zora will not be a stripped-down, uncomfortable race car. Instead, it will be as civilized and comfortable as an everyday hypercar with a complete list of luxury features. The new Corvette interior is expected to be as striking as the exterior design, with a camera-based rearview mirror display and Chevrolet’s newest infotainment system. Expect a crisp, bright graphics interface and a high-end multi-speaker Bose audio system—Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Driving aids include a rear cross-traffic warning, cameras that help with low-speed maneuvering, and an optional nose-lift system for steep driveways and low-clearance parking. Chevrolet’s Performance Traction Management software will also be part of the mix. There is a generous list of features such as heated and ventilated seats, a front-view parking camera to help prevent damaging the Corvette’s nose, and a blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning.
The Zora will still be a bargain in the rarified air of mega high-performance sports cars, with a starting price of around US $200,000. Canadian pricing is to be announced, and there is no firm date yet for showroom release.
