2018 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
| Model: | 2018 Corvette Z06 |
| Generation: | C7 Corvette |
| Type: | Two Door Z06 Coupe, Two Door Z06 Convertible |
| Available Colors: | Arctic White, Black, Torch Red, Watkins Glen Gray, Ceramix Matrix Gray, Admiral Blue, Long Beach Red, Blade Silver, Corvette Racing Yellow, Black Rose, Sebring Orange |
| Engine: | LT4 6.2L Supercharged V8 with direct injection and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) |
| Transmission: | 7-speed manual with Active Rev Match 8-speed paddle-shaft automatic |
| Original Price: | Base Price Coupe: $79,495.00 Base Price Convertible: $83,495.00 |
| Units Produced: | Coupe: 2,353, Convertible: 449 |
A Review of the 2018 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
The 2018 Corvette Z06 is arguably one of the best Corvette platforms available on the market today. While not as powerful as the 2019 Corvette ZR1, the Z06 platform propelled the seventh-generation Corvette from sports-car to super-car territory.
The C7 Z06 platform was co-developed with the C7.R race car. It is no surprise then that the car, which handles much like its race car counterpart, should come from that same pedigree.
Under the Hood
The 2018 Corvette Z06 came equipped with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8. This setup enabled the car to produced an incredible 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Unlike is predecessors (the C5 and C6 versions of the Z06), the seventh-generation Corvette could be purchased with either a seven-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Both options came equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential.
For drivers looking for even more direct control over their car, Chevrolet offered an option Z06 Performance Package which added carbon ceramic Brembo brakes, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires and an upgraded suspension to the mix. From casual enthusiasts looking for the ultimate driving experience to experienced racers looking for a truly track-capable/ready sports car, the 2018 Z06 delivered on all fronts.
Interior
Much like the standard Corvette, getting in-and-out of the Z06 Corvette is a bit more difficult in large part to the wide door stills and the car’s low stance (the latter of which should be common knowledge to anyone who has ever owned a Corvette.) However, once seated in the Corvette, the driver is rewarded by a driver-centric cockpit that provides its occupant a truly engaging experience.
The 2018 Corvette Z06 came equipped standard with GT style driving seats, but consumers also had the option to upgrade to Competition seats, the latter of which offered its occupants extra side bolstering. Once seated, the driver was met by a dashboard finished in carbon fiber and aluminum trim, along with a leather-wrapped, flat-bottom, racing-style steering wheel.
As with all the Corvettes of this generation, the driver interface on these cars is truly remarkable. The digital/analog hybrid dashboard features an LED display that enables its occupant to customize the data being presented. An optional heads-up display projects much of that same information into the driver’s field of view, enabling them to gather important driving data without ever taking their eyes off of the road.
Chevrolet’s MyLink touch screen infotainment system came standard on all Z06 Corvettes and featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. All units also came equipped with a Bose audio system. For those looking to utilize their Corvette for internet connectivity, all Z06 Corvettes also offered the option of adding a 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot subscription to the car, turning the Z06 into a mobile connectivity hub.
Exterior, Equipment and Safety
Special Editions
The 2018 model year marked the 65th anniversary of the Chevrolet Corvette. To commemorate the anniversary, Chevrolet introduced the Carbon 65 Edition Corvette. The car, which was limited to just 650 units (including the Carbon 65 Edition package being offered on Grand Sport models equipped with the 3LT trim package), featured a unique vehicle identification number. Each of these cars also came finished in a distinctive package that blended visible carbon fiber elements (including a new carbon fiber spoiler and rear quarter intakes) with a new Ceramic Matrix Gray exterior paint color.
