For the first time in its history, the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is officially available in the UK with right-hand drive. The C8 corvette has been on sale in Britain since the second half of 2021, but now some of the more exotic, track-focused models are finally finding their way across the Atlantic.
With a starting price of £179,791, the Z06 sets its sights on established European contenders like the Porsche 911 GT3 and Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO. Like the GT3, the Z06 is naturally aspirated, powered by a 5.5-litre V8 producing 637bhp at a screaming 8,600rpm. While that figure is slightly lower than the 670hp output quoted for US models - likely due to emissions regulations - it remains the most powerful naturally aspirated engine currently on sale. Even reigned in the Z06 is still capable of 0-60mph in 3.1 seconds, with a top speed quoted at 186mph.
Unlike the Porsche, the Z06 only offers an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, but the unique engine ensures the Corvette offers a distinct character from anything else in the fiercely competitive segment. On home soil, the Z06 has already claimed MotorTrend's 2023 Performance Vehicle of the Year award, as well as Road & Track's 2023 Performance Car of the Year award.
Three dealerships in the UK have been selected to handle Z06 orders: Lumen Automotive in Shrewsbury, Arnold Clark LUXE Glasgow, and Arnold Clark LUXE Altrincham. With less than a handful of locations handling sales, prospective buyers may need to put in some effort to secure a Z06. Details on UK allocations remain scarce, with no confirmation on whether customers will be able to configure their orders or be limited to pre-specced cars.
Another car that’s found its way onto the Arnold Clark website under the “coming soon” banner is the Corvette E-Ray. The E-Ray pairs the Stingray’s 6.2-litre ‘small block’ LT2 V8 with an electric motor powering the front wheels - making this not only the first hybrid Corvette, but the first four-wheel drive one too. Total combined output is 643bhp and 843Nm of torque, with 482bhp from V8 and 161bhp courtesy of the electric motor. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard on US-spec cars.
Chevrolet’s decision to introduce the Z06 and E-Ray to the UK in right-hand drive is a clear sign of its growing ambitions for the UK and Europe. Historically, Corvettes have been viewed as niche left-hand-drive muscle cars, but the C8’s mid-engine layout and newfound handling prowess have repositioned it as a credible alternative to Europe’s best. The Z06, with its flat-plane crank V8 and exotic high-revving nature, further cements that transformation.
On track days filled with Porsches, McLarens, and AMGs, a Z06 turning up will undoubtedly attract attention. With the Z06 now confirmed for the UK, we can only hope Chevrolet’s newfound confidence will result in the even more unhinged, 1,064bhp, twin-turbocharged ZR1 following suit.
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