Though Chevrolet showcased three new vehicles at the last Dubai International Motor Show, all eyes were on the 2020 Corvette Stingray, then slated to ship to the UAE mid-2020.
But then a global pandemic hit, and everything changed. Fortunately, the brand has said that orders should start making their way to roads in the Middle East starting next month.
Here’s what to expect from the new Chevrolet Corvett Stingray:
Engine
Like Ferrari, the engine is positioned in the middle, providing a host of added benefit. This includes better weight distribution; the rear weight bias enhances performance in a straight line and on the track, better responsiveness and control since the driver is closer to the front axle (great for visibility), and increased speed. Specifically, it has the fastest 0-60 time of any Corvette ever, less than three seconds when equipped with the Z51 Performance Package.
This beast of an engine is a naturally aspirated 6.2L Small Block V-8 LT2. It can produce 495 horsepower (369 kW) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque, accentuated by a deep and rasping roar.
Tech
Driver mode choices have been increased from four to six (Weather, Tour, Sport, Track, MyMode and Z Mode) so you can tweak the feel of the drive to personal preference.
Other new features include a faster, simpler, higher-resolution display (facilitating life for non-tech wizards like us!), one-touch Bluetooth pairing with NearField communication, wireless charging, learn-as-you-go voice recognition, and improved real-time traffic.
In addition, there’s seat memory, two new Bose audio systems, steering wheel temperature adjustment, and Tire Fill Alert which warns the driver when the tire meets maximum pressure.
Design
Overall design, whether coupe or convertible, is inspired by racing and aeronautics. The exterior is bold and futuristic, but still identifiable as a Corvette. The new location of the engine is the focal point of its design, proudly visible through the large rear hatch window.
The door, hood and hatch releases are all hidden so not as to disrupt the sleek outlook, and the distinctive face has a classic horizontal crease, aggressive front fenders and familiar positioning of the dual-element headlamps.
There are dual trunks with a total of 12.6 cubic feet of cargo volume. The one at the front can fit a backpack or gym bag, whilst the one at the back has enough space for two golf bags.
Customers can personalise vehicle aesthetics, choosing from 12 exterior colors (including Torch Red, Rapid Blue and Zeus Bronze), six interior color themes (including Two-Tone Blue, Jet Black and Natural Dipped), six seat belt colors and two stitch packages. Put it this way, the 2020 Corvette Stingray will fit right in with the supercars of Dubai.
Price
The US release starts at $59,995 (approx. 220,358 AED). Exact UAE pricing is to be announced.
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