The 2020 Corvette C8 promises to usher in some radical changes and two prototypes have recently been spied testing alongside the new Corvette ZR1.
Caught by a YouTuber in Colorado, the clip mostly shows the rear of the mid-engine sports car. However, at the beginning, we can see the Corvette’s stylish new shape which looks more Italian than American.
Previous spy photos have shown the model will have a wedge-shaped design with an angular front fascia featuring LED headlights. Of course, the biggest changes occur aft of the rakish windscreen as the mid-engine model will have a short roof which meets two buttresses. The engine resides in the space between and it will likely be covered by a glass panel to showcase the car’s new layout.
The new design is also noticeable at the rear as the Corvette has a Lamborghini-esque rear bumper and a four-tailpipe exhaust system. However, the model will adopt some familiar Corvette features including round brake lights which can be briefly seen in the video.
Like the Lexus LC F, there have been countless rumors about what will power the eighth-generation Corvette. A report from earlier this year suggested the base model will have an upgraded 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine that develops approximately 500 hp (372 kW / 507 PS). It will reportedly be connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission which will allow the car to be faster than the C7 despite a rumored weight gain of over 200 lbs (90 kg).
If reports are correct, the car will eventually be offered with an all-new 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine producing at least 600 hp (447 kW / 608 PS). There have also rumors about a twin-turbo version of this engine with a ZR1 beating 800 hp (596 kW / 811 PS).
One of the more prolific rumors suggests the company could also release the mother of all Corvettes. It is rumored to use a twin-turbo V8 and an electric motor that powers the front wheels. Assuming this information is correct, the range-topping Vette would have all-wheel drive and around 1,000 hp (745 kW / 1013 PS).
Chevrolet has been dropping a few hints about the car and it is expected to debut at the North American International Auto Show in January.