VIDEO: New C8 Corvette ZR1 Brings The Boost

A mid-engine ZR1 is on the way, a second Chevy teaser video confirms. The newest and highest-performance Corvette should be coming as a 2026 model year vehicle–Chevy’s teaser suggests the model will debut this summer.

We know very little about the new ZR1, and most of it is conjecture. Of course, the new track-killer ‘Vette should feature some truly serious aerodynamic improvements over the Z06, and the teaser footage corroborates that by showing the outline of a C8 with a monstrous wing on the back. Likely, a full aerodynamics package derived from C8 race cars is in store.

Taking a closer listen to the trailer audio, it sounds like intake sounds and forced induction. The V8 wail of the Z06 could be muffled by twin turbos–the rumor du jour has Chevy's "Unthinkable" marketing tag lie tied into the first ever use of turbos on the Corvette. Of course, the last two iterations of the ZR1 used supercharging to push performance limits, it's a technology General Motors knows well and has employed to great effect in Corvette, Camaro, and Cadillac performance products.

Speaking of the Z06, this ZR1 will most likely use a modified version of the flat-plane LT6 V8. For just a few frames, the trailer shows the same rocket that is stamped into various locations on the V8's block. Power outputs are anyone’s guess, but given the Z06 makes 670 horsepower in its naturally aspirated form, forced induction would all but guarantee the Z06’s power figure to start with a seven, or maybe even an eight. As for the rest, we’ll have to wait until later this summer.

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