Chevrolet introduced the eighth-generation, mid-engine Corvette in July 2019. The automaker faced significant challenges at the start of production, including delays due to a labor strike and the pandemic. Since then, Chevy fleshed out the C8 lineup with the Z06, E-Ray, ZR1, and, most recently, the Grand Sport, and that will be it for Corvette variants.
In a podcast interview on The Gas podcast, Corvette Chief Engineer Josh Holder said the automaker is “never completely done” with a model. “We’re always tweaking and improving things,” he added. “But as far as a model lineup, the Grand Sport is going to round out the eighth generation of Corvette for sure.”
Holder noted in the interview that the Grand Sport typically arrives toward the end of a generation’s life cycle, and that we can “expect the same formula.” The C7 Grand Sport arrived in 2017 before the C8 Corvette launched for the 2020 model year. The C6 Grand Sport debuted for 2010 ahead of the C7’s arrival in 2014.
Holder did not say when we could expect the C9 Corvette to arrive, adding, “We’re always working on the next Corvette.” But if Chevy maintains a similar cadence as before, we could see the C9 debut for 2030 or 2030.
The New Grand Sport And Grand Sport X
The 2027 Grand Sport is the latest Corvette variant, and it will go on sale with General Motors’ next-generation 6.7-liter LS6 V8 engine. It will produce 535 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque, which Chevrolet claims is the most torque from a naturally aspirated V8.
The Grand Sport slots between the entry-level Stingray and the hotter Z06, offering some of the performance goodies at a more affordable price. Chevrolet also introduced the Grand Sport X, a hybrid version that pairs the LS6 engine with the ZR1X’s hybrid powertrain to make 721 hp—more than the Z06. It also replaces the E-Ray.
It will be the final major C8 variant for now. Chevrolet has hinted at offering bespoke commissions and one-off creations, which we might see more of before the C0 arrives.
Motor1’s Take: It’s hard to believe the C8 Corvette, the first mid-engine version ever, could be nearing the end of its lifecycle, but Chevrolet is already teasing what comes next. The Grand Sport is always the final bow before a new generation arrives.
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