Midengine 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Impresses at the Consumer Reports Track

Update: Since this first drive was originally published in December 2019, we bought and tested a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. Read the complete Corvette road test.

A true, all-new Chevrolet Corvette is a rare occurrence. Throughout the brand’s history, Corvettes typically have gone many years between dramatic overhauls, punctuated by a midcycle update that freshens the exterior and interior while continuing to use the core mechanical bones. The 2020 Corvette Stingray marks a bold new chapter, with the iconic sports car moving from its traditional front-engine design to a midengine configuration.

This means a completely fresh look, with a design more akin to a Ford GT or a Ferrari than anything in Chevrolet’s production history. A large V8 engine has been placed behind the driver. And there is no more manual transmission. My, how things have changed.

Production for the eighth-generation Corvette (aka C8) will begin at the Bowling Green, Ky., factory in winter 2020. Pricing starts at $59,995, although finding one at that price may be a challenge. The 2LT version starts at $67,295, and it adds adjustable suspension, an upgraded stereo, heated/vented seats, and a head-up display. The current top version is the 3LT, at $71,945, which upgrades the interior with leather. Plus, there are many options that can further enhance the car’s appearance and performance.

We drove the all-new Corvette, prior to buying one, and CR members can access our initial impressions below, as well as ratings across all the products we evaluate, including appliances, cars, and electronics. Since then, we posted a complete road test.

Sign up for CR’s Cars email newsletter to be notified when we post our latest road tests.