GM engineers quickly knew the new C8 Corvette ZR1 was extraordinary. On its first drag-strip run, it sped through the quarter-mile in under 10 seconds. At GM’s Milford Proving Grounds, it outpaced the old ZR1. On Germany’s Nürburgring, all four test drivers broke 200 mph on their first laps. Plus, the 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 is a trailblazer as the first turbocharged Corvette and the first to hit over 1000 horsepower—specifically, 1064 horses.
The new ZR1’s 1064 horsepower is a game-changer for Corvettes. It blows away the previous ZR1, which had 755 hp, and even surpasses the earlier C6 ZR1 with its 638 hp. To put it in perspective, the new ZR1 has more power than two C6 Z06s combined, each with 505 hp. No math required—this ZR1 is in a league of its own.
The new ZR1 boasts an eye-popping 828 pound-feet of torque. It delivers the first 800 pound-feet at just 3000 rpm. To keep the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission in check, torque is dialed down in the first two gears. While the transmission is similar to the C8 Z06’s, the ZR1’s version has beefier gears, tougher shafts, and a better oiling system for extra durability.
The new LT7 engine in the ZR1 shares some traits with the LT6 from the Z06, but it’s not just a turbocharged version of the same motor. While both engines have a similar design and use a flat-plane crankshaft, the LT7 is distinct. It comes with twin turbos boosting 20 psi, a unique intake system painted Edge Blue, and upgraded parts like stronger connecting rods.
The Chevy Corvette has always held its own against pricey exotic sports cars, and the switch to a mid-engine setup with the C8 made it even more impressive. The C8 Z06 was designed for the track and is nearly a second faster than the old C7 ZR1 around Virginia International Raceway. It’s currently sixth on our Lightning Lap leaderboard, beating multiple McLarens and Porsche 911s. The new ZR1, with its immense power and track-ready features, is ready to compete with the best supercars out there
The C8 ZR1 stands out with its unique features. It replaces the front trunk with a flow-through hood that boosts downforce and cools the engine. The ZR1 also has side ducts to cool the rear brakes and additional cooling for the engine at the rear hatch. The coupe version of the ZR1 has a modern twist on the classic split rear window design, inspired by the old Corvettes, and it was first seen on the Z06 GT3.R race car.
Every Corvette ZR1 comes with Magnetic Ride 4.0 shocks and big 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. For track enthusiasts, the ZTK package offers stiffer springs, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, front dive planes, underbody strakes, a tall Gurney flap, and a large rear wing for extra downforce. These aero upgrades, available separately in the Carbon Aero package, can create up to 1200 pounds of downforce at speeds over 200 mph. Without these aero parts, the ZR1 can hit over 215 mph.
The 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 starts production next year at GM’s Bowling Green, Kentucky factory, alongside the Stingray, Z06, and E-Ray. Pricing isn’t set yet, but expect it to be higher than the $106,000 hybrid E-Ray. A fully loaded ZR1 with all the upgrades could easily top $200,000.
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