FIRST LOOK: 2008 Chevy Corvette

[Chazman]

I'd post it but it's just too long.

------------------

Well, I'll do it then.

FIRST LOOK: 2008 Chevrolet Corvette

Press Release & Image Gallery

• All-new LS3 6.2L V-8 engine for Coupe and Convertible:
• 430 hp (321 kW)*
• 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm)*
• 436 hp / 428 lb.-ft. (325 kW / 580 Nm)* with new, optional dual-mode exhaust system
• High-flow cylinder heads
• Enhanced valvetrain
• High-flow intake manifold
• Larger-bore block with structural enhancements
• Improved manual transmission shift effort
• Quicker shift times on paddle-shift six-speed automatic
• 2.73 performance axle ratio available with six-speed paddle shift; included with Z51 package
• Improved steering feel
• Standard split-spoke cast aluminum wheel design for Coupe and Convertible (Competition Gray finish optional)
• Available polished forged aluminum wheel design
• New Keyless Access remote key fob with integrated key
• Interior trim enhancements for all models, including wrapped center trim plate with Cyber pattern and new, brushed aluminum accents
• Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package available for all models in exclusive, new Linen and Sienna colors
• New sill plates
• iPod/MP3 jack included on all sound systems except navigation (Personal Audio Link available as accessory for navigation system)
• OnStar and XM Satellite Radio standard on all models
• Auto-dimming mirrors with compass standard on all models
• Two new premium exterior colors: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat

2008 CORVETTE:

ICONIC SPORTS CAR RECIEVES LARGER, MORE POWERFUL LS3 6.2L V-8 AND HOST OF DRIVING, INTERIOR REFINEMENTS

Get comfortable. There’s so much new and exciting with the 2008 Corvette that you’ll want to grab a hot drink, sidle up to your computer screen and absorb all the details.

The changes involve everything from an all-new, larger and more powerful V-8 engine to refinements in driving characteristics that solidify the Corvette’s position as the preeminent American sports car – and further the argument that it is one of the world’s best. There are also a host of exterior and interior refinements that raise the Corvette’s luxury status and enhance the feeling of craftsmanship.

“Corvette is an uncompromising sports car that rewards its owners with impeccable performance and great comfort,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “The changes and enhancements to the 2008 Corvette reflect continual improvements that speak to Chevrolet’s unflagging commitment to building the best sports car – and with nearly 55 years of experience, the Corvette just keeps getting better and better.”

Also back again for ’08 is the 505-horsepower Corvette Z06, an American super car that has won over enthusiasts, journalists and racers around the world for its balance of racetrack-bred performance, daily-driving civility and value.

Here’s a look at the new and enhanced features for ’08 Corvette models:

Engine – A new, 6.2L LS3 small-block V-8 is the standard engine in Coupe and Convertible models. It is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW)* and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (586 Nm)* with the standard exhaust system; with the new, optional two-mode exhaust system, power ratings increase to 436 horses / 325 kW and 428 lb.-ft. / 592 Nm. As a result, the standard Corvette is true supercar, capable of 190 mph. The LS3 with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic is the fastest automatic-equipped Corvette ever, with 0-60 mph capability of 4.3 seconds.

This new iteration of the storied small-block family features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block – 4.06-inch / 103.25 mm vs. the previous 6.0L’s 4.00-inch / 101.62 mm bores – high-flow, LS7/L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; revised camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; high-flow fuel injectors from the Z06’s LS7 engine; and a new engine beauty cover.

The LS3 features an aluminum cylinder block with cast iron cylinder liners. In addition to its larger bores, which help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement, the block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads that enhance its strength and improved bay to bay breathing. But while the bore of the 6.2L engine is increased when compared with the previous 6.0L engine, the engine’s stroke remains at 3.62 inches (92 mm). The pistons for the larger 6.2L engine also are new and are designed for its high-rpm performance capability.

Breathing for the new 6.2L engine is accomplished via new, high-flow cylinder heads. They’re based on the large port/large valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L92 engines, with larger-capacity, straighter intake ports. The design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber and the exhaust ports are also designed for better flow.

Complementing the larger-port design of the heads are commensurately sized valves. The intake valve size alone increases from 2.00 inches (50.8 mm) to 2.16 inches (55 mm) – an increase of nearly 9 percent. The intake valves feature lightweight hollow stems, which enable the engine’s 6,600-rpm capability. The exhaust valves also are large, measuring 1.60 inches (40.4 mm) in diameter.

To accommodate the engine’s large valves and enable more direct intake port flow, the intake-side rocker arms are offset 6 mm between the valve tip and the push rod. Actuating the valves is a new camshaft, with intake-side lobes providing more than a 5-percent percent in increase in lift, from 0.521-inch to 0.551-inch (13.25 mm to 14 mm). Exhaust-valve lift remains unchanged from the LS2. The camshaft timing was revised to optimize performance with the higher-lift intake cam profile.

Ensuring the cylinder heads receive all the air they can handles falls to a new, acoustically tuned intake manifold. The composite design is manufactured with a “lost core” process that improves runner to runner variation and reduces airflow losses. An acoustic foam material is used to reduce radiated engine noise; it is sandwiched between the outer top of the manifold and an additional “skull cap” acoustic shell. Also new beauty covers atop the engine shield the rocker covers and also feature a noise-reducing, acoustically tuned insert to provide a more refined engine sound.

Exhaust system – Optional on ’08 Coupe and Convertible models is a new, two-mode performance exhaust system. Similar in design and function to the system used on the Z06, the dual-mode exhaust uses vacuum-actuated outlet valves, which control engine noise during low-load operation, but open for maximum performance during high-load operation. It is not identical to the Z06 system; the Coupe/Convertible uses a 2.5-inch-diameter exhaust, while the Z06 uses a three-inch system.

With the new, dual-mode performance exhaust, power output for Coupe/Convertible rises from 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm) to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm). This system gives the Corvette a more aggressive exhaust sound character that will appeal to performance enthusiasts.

Transmissions and axle ratios – The shifting efforts for both the six-speed manual transmission and paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmissions have been improved in ’08 Corvette models. The manual transmission shifting improvements include a more positive and direct feel during gear changes, with better gate-to-gate location.

The six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission on Coupe and Convertible is improved with new hardware and a new controller calibration that deliver quicker shifts. This change bolsters the feeling of performance and driver control when using the shifting paddles.

Also new for ’08 models is the availability of the 2.73 performance axle ratio with the automatic transmission. It is included with the Z51 package.

Steering system – The Corvette’s precise rack-and-pinion steering system is revised to provide improved feel at all speeds. The revisions are due to a new, premium machining process of the system’s internal components, a new, stiffer intermediate shaft and controller calibration changes.

Wheels – Corvette Coupe and Convertible models come with a new split-spoke wheel design for ’08. The design was introduced on the limited-edition ’07 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car replicas with a Sterling Silver finish. The standard 18-inch front wheels and 19-inch rear wheels feature a Sparkle Silver finish, with a Competition Gray version optional.

Also new is a distinctive, performance-oriented forged aluminum wheel for Coupe and Convertible. It comes in a polished finish.

Exterior colors – There are two new premium exterior colors available with 2008 Corvette models: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat; they replace Le Mans Blue Metallic and Monterey Red Metallic Tintcoat.

Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package – Available on Coupe, Convertible and Z06 models, the new Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package offers a stylish, two-tone leather-appointed cabin with details that enhance the feeling of Corvette’s craftsmanship. Details include:

• Two-tone, leather-wrapped upper and lower instrument panel, door pads and seats
• Choice of new, exclusive colors: Linen or Sienna, with unique color breakup
• Padded door panel armrests
• “Corvette” embroidered on passenger-side dash pad
• Embroidered crossed flags logo on headrests
• Unique center trim plate with Bias pattern.

Interior enhancements – All models feature a new wrapped instrument panel center trim plate, with bright surrounds for the shifter and cupholder. There are also new metal-finish door sill plates that greet passengers as they step into the vehicle, as well as a new lighted control knob for the available Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

Feature changes and enhancements – All Corvette models now come standard with features that were previously optional or part of equipment packages. They include:

• OnStar with available Turn-By-Turn Navigation
• XM Satellite Radio
• Auto-dimming rearview mirrors (with compass)
• Audio input jack on all radio systems except navigation; Personal Audio Link is available as a dealer-installed item with the navigation system.

The ’08 Corvettes also come with a new Keyless Access fob, which features the key and remote-function controls integrated in a single unit.

Corvette design and interior details

Dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combine with the grille to create a strong visual identity for the Corvette, while the tapered rear deck and fascia improve high-speed performance. The lean rear design sports round taillamps and center-exit exhaust. The fixed Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provide superior lighting performance. With a 0.286 coefficient of drag, the Coupe models are the most aerodynamic Corvettes ever.

The 2008 Corvette Convertible features a power-operated soft top with the 3LT package; an easy-to-operate manual top is standard. Both configurations use a five-layer fabric that conceals the underlying structure for a good top-up appearance, plus it helps preserve the car’s excellent aerodynamics and reduces road noise.

Corvette’s interior is inspired by the car’s dual-cockpit heritage. High-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality help deliver premium quality meant to enhance performance driving. The instrument panel and doors are covered with cast-skin foam-in-place trim that looks like a leather-wrapped, padded panel. It is warm and inviting and has double the life of conventional trim materials.

An AM/FM/XM radio with CD player and audio input jack is standard. An optional Bose audio system with an in-dash six-disc changer adds to the choices available to the audiophile owner. Steering-wheel mounted audio controls – introduced in ’07 – are included with the Bose premium system.

A full-function OnStar system is standard and an onboard navigation system with voice recognition is available. Using a 6.5-inch (165 mm) color touch-screen display, the DVD-based system contains all the map data for the 48 contiguous states and most of Canada on one disc.

Driving dynamics

Corvette Coupe and Convertible have a hydroformed steel rail backbone structure, which features cored composite floors, an enclosed center tunnel, rear-mounted transmission and aluminum cockpit structure. Suspension cradles, control arms, knuckles, springs, dampers, bushings, stabilizer bars and steering gear have all been redesigned. New Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT) take advantage of the latest sidewall design and compound technology for run-flat capabilities.

Three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style. The standard suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and precise handling. Corvette is now more poised at even higher handling levels, yet easier to drive.

The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magneto-rheological dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control. Cross-dilled brake rotors are included when this feature is selected, allowing customers to combine the larger brakes from the Z51 performance package with the comfort of Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

The Z51 Performance Package brings Coupe and Convertible performance very close to the widely admired previous generation Z06. The Z51 offers more aggressive dampers and springs, larger stabilizer bars, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar EMT tires, enhanced cooling and larger cross-drilled brake rotors (13.4 inches / 340 mm in front and 13 inches / 330 mm in rear) for optimum track performance while still providing a comfortable ride.

With each suspension, three standard dynamic chassis control systems – anti-lock braking, traction control and Active Handling – operate in concert. In all, the dynamic chassis control systems are smarter, less intrusive and more adept at making the total driving experience precisely what drivers have come to expect from their Corvette.

[Northstar]

436/428! Awesome!

I will be very surprised if it really takes 4.3s to get to 60. I thought the LS2-equipped C6 could do it in 4.2? I'm glad to see GM is improving the Vette, now how about actually making the XLR competitive?

[Nick]

Judging from the article, sounds like these are the new rims...

not sure if I like those...

EDIT: Nevermind...these pics show the new rims...look similar except for the split spokes...

The interior update is nice.

Edited April 27, 2007 by Nick

[Nick]

Blog Smith Media via Autoblog

[ZL-1]

only 6hp more with the optional exaust? what's the point, a more aggressive exhaust note?

[FAPTurbo]

only 6hp more with the optional exaust? what's the point, a more aggressive exhaust note?

Well, that, and the pleasure of letting the driver in the riced out 1991 Accord next to you that he's just driving an Accord.

[ZL-1]

Well, that, and the pleasure of letting the driver in the riced out 1991 Accord next to you that he's just driving an Accord.

but I think he/she would know his/her place next to a Corvette.

[z28luvr01]

I'm holding back tears of joy while typing this. Thank you. Thank you Thank you!!

[Z-06]

Uhh, what has changed in the interior?

Otherwise the rest for performance looks good. Wonder what the 2008 fuel economy will be.

[EMan]

but I think he/she would know his/her place next to a Corvette.

You’ll be surprise

[FAPTurbo]

but I think he/she would know his/her place next to a Corvette.

You’ll be surprise

EMan is right. You'd be surprised.

[loki]

any detail if this has the VVT system or not?

[Paolino]

Uhh, what has changed in the interior?

Otherwise the rest for performance looks good. Wonder what the 2008 fuel economy will be.

Everything from the dash, the doors, to the chairs, to the center console, are leather-wrapped with contrast stitching for one.

[ZL-1]

EMan is right. You'd be surprised.

Really?

[ToniCipriani]

The only complaint I have for the interior is the airbag module. What happened with that plastic? Otherwise it looks perfect.

[FUTURE_OF_GM]

Time for a new interior....

Hate the new wheels almost as much as I hated the wheels on the convertible pace car.. (See my many rants about GM's inability to design a good looking wheel)

[ZL-1]

They used old plastic on the steering wheel: that's why it's wrinkled

[Intrepidation]

SO is the center stack no longer cheap hard plastic? I like the color scheme they have in the pics.

[Sixty8panther]

You know me, I love the Corvette but I think that the C5 & C6 both have a very plastic looking

and generic styling compared to the 5th gen. Camaro concept. The next Vette needs a bit of

testosterone injected into it's fiberglass skin.

[rueben44]

What ever this is my new dream car and the best machine GM has ever made! Power, Economy, Leather rapped interior, keyless, excellent new Key fob, HUD, Removable Top,........it’s a VETTE!!!! People here are always menstruating and complaining about GM well here is a time when you can say job well done and you don't.

Edited April 28, 2007 by rueben44

[Drew Dowdell]

I can't put my finger on it... but why to most of these pics look like renderings rather than actual photographs?

[PrimeGTP]

They always look like that, GM glosses and airbrushes the crap out of their press photography, hence why they always look so characterless until you see them in person.

[gm4life]

I want one no reason to buy a Z06 it is with-in 70hp and has good upgrades. I'll take a 3LT Coupe in Electra Blue with chrome wheels and a 6spd auto or stick, don't care it has to be a Z51 or F55 tho, add the performance exhaust too.

[Cory Wolfe]

I like the white two tone leather dash... It's a nice surprise.

[NOS2006]

I, for one, can tell you the interior (IP at least) looks fifty times better in person. Coloring and everything.

[Mikko O]

The custom stiched interior looks much more classier. I'm happy to see that GM woke up to the fact

that the interior needed an upgrade.

[prinzSD]

It will be interesting to see what GM will charge for the upgraded interior and the reaction of those who complained that the interior looked cheap and they would spend a little extra for a better interior. If they charge Porsche interior prices then these same people will continue to complain. It will also make for more fodder for the Vette vs Porsche interior quality. Should make for some interesting reading. What do you think this kind of option will cost? It certainly has me thinking about getting a 2008 Vette. But I am afraid of how well the leather will stay in place on the dash and console. I am skeptical because both of my TAs have headliners that are sagging and I wonder if GM has improved on their adhesives.

[ZL-1]

I can't put my finger on it... but why to most of these pics look like renderings rather than actual photographs?

Maybe they are: I've been suspecting there are loads of chopping enthusiasts at GM ever since we got a picture of a manual G6 with only 2 pedals

[K.C.]