2012 Chevrolet Corvette

6-Speed Transmission
Chevrolet's latest short-throw 6-speed manual transmission makes the shifter in past Corvette models feel like something pulled out of a 1966 Chevy pickup.

Keyless Access with Push Button Start
Keep your keys in your purse or pocket. When you approach the car, you simply reach for a touch-panel in the door handle and the vehicle starts up with the press of a button.

While we are certain that the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette can compete on almost any race track with almost any competitor, its interior does not compete as well. Even with the partial microfiber suede coverings provided in the new Chevrolet Centennial Edition, the Corvette's cockpit seems more Camaro-quality than Audi or BMW. It's not a horrible interior, but it does speak to the Corvette's Chevrolet roots. A handsome Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package (part of the 4LT Package) is well worth the extra cost, adding a dash of elegance to Chevrolet's road warrior. The newly designed front seats add additional side support and remain fairly comfortable even on long drives. One must remember, however, that this is a V8-powered performance car, so those looking for Lexus-like quiet in the cabin will be in for a rude awakening.

The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette coupe is unlike any Corvette before it, yet it retains a familiar look. That's because this sixth-generation Corvette draws inspiration from the 1968 C3 design, although this model has exposed headlamps and much shorter front and rear overhangs. The Corvette Grand Sport model borrows many of the design elements from the Corvette Z06, creating a thrilling-looking coupe for around $55,000. A traditional feature that is standard on the Corvette coupe is the removable body-colored roof panel, which is also available in tinted glass. There is even a package that offers one of each. The ultimate in Corvette design is the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, a super-car edition that adds its own unique body panels, and a combination of 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rears, among other features.

Although there is no denying the pleasure a 430-horsepower (436 horsepower with the optional dual-mode exhaust) V8 delivers, with the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette has a certain lack of refinement. The 6.2-liter LS3 small-block V8 feels gruff at idle and roars loudly when pressed into action. It's a purely American feel that instantly takes one back to the late 1960's muscle car era. Porsche and Jaguar lovers will probably never like this engine, but they can't easily overlook its tremendous performance potential, either. The Z06's 7.0-liter V8 pushes the level of performance and refinement into the realm of the European supercars. The Corvette ZR1's supercharger allows its 6.2-liter V8 to produce an incredible 638 horsepower and 604 lb-ft of torque.

6.2-liter V8
430 horsepower @ 5,900 rpm (436 with optional exhaust)
424 lb-ft of torque @ 4.600 rpm (428 with optional exhaust)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/26 (manual), 15/25 (automatic)

7.0-liter V8
505 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm
470 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/24

6.2-liter supercharged V8
638 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
604 lb-ft of torque @ 3,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/21

The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette coupe's Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts just under $51,000, while the Corvette convertible's price is closer to $55,500. The Corvette Grand Sport starts around $57,000, while the Corvette Z06 begins closer to $76,500. The Corvette ZR1's price exceeds $113,000. A wide range of competitors with similar performance and horsepower figures include the Porsche 911 Carrera S, which is priced at close to $90,000, the Nissan GT-R, which has an MSRP of about $91,000, and the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, which is available at just under $50,000. Be sure to visit kbb.com to see our Fair Purchase Price which shows what others in your area paying. Even if you find yourself paying full retail for your Corvette, you can take solace in the fact that over a 5-year period the 2012 Chevy Corvette rivals the Porsche 911 Carrera S in projected residual values.

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