2025 Corvette Z06 In-Depth Guide

The Chevrolet Corvette has always been a symbol of American performance, but the 2025 Z06 is something else entirely. With its naturally aspirated 5.5-liter LT6 V8 engine screaming to an 8,600 rpm redline, razor-sharp handling, and race-bred aerodynamics, the Z06 is an extraordinary, mid-engine car showcasing General Motors’ engineering prowess when given ample creative freedom. And while it’s capable of going neck and neck with six-figure European exotics on the track, it also happens to be civil enough for your morning commute.

For 2025, the Corvette C8 Z06 carries forward its established reputation, building on the C8 mid-engine platform. Every design element, every performance figure, and every dynamic characteristic tells a story of careful development and a commitment to precision. The Z06 truly offers a unique proposition when compared to many high-performance cars, often at a more accessible price point. Here’s our breakdown of why the 2025 Corvette Z06 is more than just another fast Vette.

Understanding the LT6 Powertrain

To truly appreciate the Z06, we need to look closely at its core: the engine. The 2025 Corvette Z06 features a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter flat-plane-crank V8, officially designated the LT6. What sets this engine apart? It produces 670 horsepower at a high 8400 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 6300 rpm. The flat-plane crankshaft design allows the engine to rev up to an impressive 8500 rpm. Car and Driver has noted its wide-open throttle sound as “a Ferrari 458 Italia that hit puberty,” which gives you an idea of its unique auditory character.

This specialized engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This particular transmission choice is common in high-performance vehicles, valued for its ability to deliver quick, efficient shifts. It offers the smooth operation often associated with automatics, while also providing the engaging feel of manual-like gear changes when pushed. The Z06’s powertrain is about more than just its power output; it’s about a comprehensive package of immediate throttle response, consistent power delivery across the rev range, and the distinct sound accompanying each shift.

Performance Metrics

When it comes to objective performance, the 2025 Corvette Z06 delivers solid figures. Car and Driver, through their independent testing, has provided concrete data on its capabilities.

Here’s a look at some of its key performance metrics:

0-60 mph: The Z06 coupe has been recorded hitting 60 mph in 2.6 seconds. The convertible variant achieves this in 2.7 seconds. For context, Car and Driver reported this to be two-tenths of a second quicker than a 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 in their tests.
0-100 mph: The Z06 reaches 100 mph in 5.9 seconds.
Quarter-Mile: It completes the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds at 131 mph for the coupe, with the convertible slightly behind at 10.7 seconds at 129 mph.
0-150-0 mph: In Car and Driver’s specific testing, a 2023 Z06 managed this challenging test in 22.5 seconds, which indicates its comprehensive performance in both acceleration and braking.
Top Speed: Chevrolet indicates a top speed of 189 mph for the Z06.

How it Stacks Against the Competition

Vehicle	Power	0-60 MPH	Base Price
Corvette Z06	670 hp	2.6 seconds	$116,995
Porsche 911 GT2	502 hp	3.2 seconds	$182,900
McLaren Artura	671 hp	2.9 seconds	$237,500
Ferrari 296 GTB	819 hp	2.9 seconds	$342,205

These figures illustrate the Z06’s position in the performance car landscape, demonstrating its ability to deliver competitive speeds and acceleration.

Exterior and Aerodynamics

A glance at the 2025 Corvette Z06 reveals its performance intentions. Its wider stance and distinctive bodywork are not merely aesthetic; each element has been designed to manage airflow, aid cooling, and generate downforce. This approach ensures that the car’s visual appeal is directly linked to its functional performance.

Compared to the standard Stingray, the Z06 incorporates several key design differences:

Wider Bodywork: The more expansive fenders are designed to accommodate wider tires and the specialized suspension, contributing to the Z06’s planted look and enhanced grip.
Functional Air Intakes: Larger intakes on the front and sides are engineered to direct air efficiently to the engine, brakes, and other components for optimal cooling.
Rear Wing: The Z06’s rear wing, which can be adjusted, plays an important role in generating downforce. This helps keep the rear of the car stable and provides grip at higher speeds and during cornering.
Carbon Fiber Elements: An optional Carbon Aero package introduces lightweight carbon fiber components such as a front splitter, rocker moldings, integrated brake cooling side intakes, and a front underwing with specific deflectors. These elements are designed to reduce weight and improve aerodynamic efficiency.

For those seeking even more track-focused performance, the Z07 Performance package includes a more aggressive, higher-downforce rear wing, front dive planes, and a tall hood Gurney lip, all crafted from exposed carbon fiber. Specialized underbody strakes are also part of this package, designed to increase front downforce.

Cosmetic updates for 2025 include new exterior paint options like Competition Yellow Tintcoat Metallic and Hysteria Purple Metallic. Sebring Orange Tintcoat Metallic also makes a return. Additionally, new 10-spoke wheel patterns are available in four finishes: Pearl Nickel, Gloss Black, Polished, and Bright Polished with Carbon Flash Pockets. Velocity Yellow brake calipers are also a new option.

Chassis and Suspension

The 2025 Corvette Z06 is recognized for its responsive handling and stable ride. Chevrolet’s engineers have refined the mid-engine platform to create a vehicle that responds directly to driver input. The car feels composed and balanced, whether on regular roads or demanding tracks.

Key elements contributing to its dynamic capabilities include:

Suspension System: The Z06 utilizes an independent suspension system with unequal-length control arms at both the front and rear. With the Z07 Performance package, the suspension gains stiffer springs and Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 dampers. These advanced dampers can adjust damping forces rapidly to suit various road conditions and driving styles, contributing to both ride quality and handling performance.
Tire Specification: The Z06 comes standard with 20-inch front and 21-inch rear forged aluminum wheels fitted with wider Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP tires. For dedicated track use, the Z07 package upgrades to Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R ZP race-oriented tires, providing increased grip.
Braking System: To manage its power, the Z06 features a substantial braking system. The Z07 package notably includes large Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, designed for enhanced fade resistance and consistent stopping power during rigorous use. Car and Driver’s tests of a Z07-equipped coupe show a 70-0 mph braking distance of 139 feet and a 100-0 mph braking distance of 274 feet.

This combination of components results in a chassis that feels direct and capable, offering confidence to the driver.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2025 Corvette Z06, the cabin reflects a focus on the driver. It blends a modern design with quality materials and integrated technology. While sharing a foundational layout with the C8 Stingray, the Z06’s interior incorporates distinct features and premium finishes. Inside, you will find:

Driver-Focused Design: The cockpit is oriented towards the driver, featuring a squared-off steering wheel and a clear 12.0-inch reconfigurable gauge display. The infotainment touchscreen is angled for ease of access and visibility.
Material Quality: The Z06 interior uses a mix of leather, metal trim, and imitation suede. The 3LZ package further enhances this with sewn leather across most surfaces and carbon-fiber trim elements.
Seating: The seats are designed to provide support and comfort. Available heated and ventilated GT2 bucket seats contribute to comfort on longer drives.
Practicality: The mid-engine design still allows for practical cargo space. With storage areas in the front and behind the engine, the Z06 offers a combined 13 cubic feet of storage, capable of accommodating items like two sets of golf clubs, as confirmed by Car and Driver.
Integrated Technology: The Z06 is equipped with Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 Plus system, featuring an 8.0-inch touchscreen. It supports Bluetooth audio streaming, a 4G LTE mobile hotspot, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

For 2025, new interior color options include Habanero and a blue stitching option for black interiors. Subtle Z06 badging is present on an interior plaque, sill plates, and the steering wheel.

Safety and Warranty

While the Z06 emphasizes performance, Chevrolet has included a range of safety features. It comes with several standard driver-assistance technologies, with additional options available.

Standard safety features include:

Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection: This system is designed to help prevent or reduce the severity of frontal collisions by applying braking if necessary.
Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: These features provide alerts or gentle steering inputs if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane.

Optional safety features for additional awareness include:

Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These systems help drivers detect vehicles in blind spots or approaching from the sides when reversing.

Chevrolet also provides a standard warranty package for the Z06:

Limited warranty: Covers three years or 36,000 miles.
Powertrain warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles.
Complimentary maintenance: The first scheduled maintenance visit is included.

Pricing and Availability

The 2025 Corvette Z06 continues the Corvette tradition of offering a significant performance package. While it represents a notable investment, its pricing remains competitive within its segment, especially when considering its performance capabilities against other high-performance vehicles.

Here is the general pricing structure for the 2025 Corvette Z06 (MSRP, excluding additional options or taxes):

1LZ Coupe: Starts at $116,995
1LZ Convertible: Starts at $120,795
2LZ Coupe: Starts at $125,895
2LZ Convertible: Starts at $129,695
3LZ Coupe: Starts at $130,545
3LZ Convertible: Starts at $134,345

For those focused on track performance, the Z07 Performance package is a key option. This package includes the track-tuned suspension, Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and Michelin Pilot Cup 2R ZP track tires. It requires the high-downforce Carbon Aero package, which adds the visible carbon-fiber exterior components like the front splitter and rear spoiler. The Carbon Aero package can also be selected independently for Z06 models equipped with standard Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP tires and steel brakes.

It’s also worth noting that as a high-performance vehicle, the Z06 will likely be subject to a gas-guzzler tax, which will be added to the final MSRP. Based on prior Z06 models, this is anticipated to be at least $3,000.

Chevrolet is currently accepting orders for the 2025 Corvette Z06, with production anticipated to commence in the second quarter of 2025. For precise pricing, including all applicable taxes and delivery fees, it is recommended to consult your local Chevrolet dealership.

The Z06’s Place in the Lineup

The 2025 Corvette Z06 stands as a distinct offering within the Corvette family. It showcases Chevrolet’s engineering capabilities in developing a high-performance, naturally aspirated vehicle that delivers a direct and engaging driving experience.

From its specialized LT6 engine to its track-capable chassis and functional design, the Z06 is engineered for performance. It maintains its position as a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a focused sports car with a strong performance pedigree.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE

Type:	LT6 5.5L DOHC VVT DI
Bore & stroke (in. / mm):	4.104 x 3.150 / 104.25 x 80
Block Material:	A319-T7 sand-cast aluminum with pressed-in iron cylinder liners and four-bolt main bearing caps
Oiling System:	Six stage dry sump; includes oil-spray piston cooling
Oil Type:	DexosR synthetic 5W50
Cylinder Head Material:	A356 T6 cast aluminum
Combustion Chamber Volume:	58.8cc
Compression Ratio:	12.5:1
Valvetrain:	Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with mechanical finger follower valvetrain and dual-coil valve springs
Valve Size (in. / mm):	1.654 / 42 titanium
Fuel Delivery:	Exhaust side direct injection; max pressure: 5,076 psi
Firing Order:	1-4-3-8-7-6-5-2
Throttle Body:	Twin 87mm single bore (electronic)
Charging:	N/A
Charge Cooling:	N/A
ECU:	GM E68 (32-bit processing)
Horsepower (hp / kW):	670 / 499.6 @ 8,400 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm):	460 / 623 @ 6,300 rpm

TRANSMISSION & AXLE

Type:

8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT)

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

Front Suspension:	Short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, forged aluminum upper and cast aluminum L-shape lower control arms; monotube shock absorbers (46mm) (FE6)
Rear Suspension:	Short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, forged aluminum upper and cast aluminum L-shape lower control arms; direct-acting stabilizer bar; monotube shock absorbers (46mm) (FE6)
Steering Type:	Variable-ratio rack-and-pinion with electric power assist; includes Active Steer Stops with available Magnetic Ride Control 4.0
Steering ratio:	15.7:1
Turning Circle (ft. / m):	38 / 11.1
Brake Type:	Front and rear eBoost-assisted carbon ceramic discs with six-piston/monobloc front calipers and four-piston/monobloc rear calipers
Brake Rotor Size (in. / mm):	Front: 14.6 x 1.3 / 370 x 34 Rear: 15.0 x 1.3 / 380 x 34
Wheel Size:	Front: 20-inch x 10-inch (w/5 x 120mm bolt pattern) Rear: 21-inch x 13-inch (w/5 x 120mm bolt pattern)
Tire Size:	Front: 275/30ZR20 Rear: 345/25ZR21

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase (in. / mm):	107 / 2722
Overall Length (in. / mm):	184.6 / 4688
Overall Width without mirrors (in. / mm):	79.7 / 2025
Overall Height (in. / mm):	48.6 / 1235
Track (in. / mm):	Front: 66.3 / 1685 Rear: 66.1 / 1678