Twin-turbo V8 and 1,200 pounds of downforce!
The 2025 Corvette ZR1 has arrived, making its presence known with a new twin-turbocharged V8 engine, big aero, and a long list of go-faster goodies that add up to a fresh fire-breathing range-topper for the C8 Corvette lineup.
Let's start with the engine. Powering the new 2025 Corvette ZR1 is the twin-turbocharged 5.5L LT7, a DOHC flat-plane V8 doling out 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 pound-feet of torque at 6,000 rpm.
The LT7 is basically a boosted version of the 5.5L LT6 that powers the C8 Z06, but with several important upgrades to handle the forced induction. Among these is a lower compression ratio (9.8:1, as compared to 12.5:1 in the LT6) and a seven-stage dry sump lubrication system (the LT6 uses a six-stage system). Charge air is provided by twin mono-scroll ported shroud ball bearing turbos with 67 mm compressors.
Naturally, the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic was also upgraded to handle the extra output, while Magnetic Selective Ride Control 4.0 suspension keeps things in check. Massive carbon ceramic brakes are mounted in the corners, with 15.7-inch rotors and six-piston calipers in front, plus 15.4-inch rotors and four-piston calipers in the rear.
For those customers feeling particularly sauce, the 2025 Corvette ZR1 offers the ZTK performance package, which adds in stiffer springs, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2-R tires, and enough carbon aero pieces to slam the Vette into the pavement with 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed. Speaking of speed, GM claims that this ground-bound missile is capable of 215 mph in the top end, all while clipping off sub-10-second quarter mile times.
As the first factory twin-turbocharged Corvette ever produced, the ZR1 will undoubtedly be of keen interest for those looking to take their performance to the next level. With over 1,000 horsepower out of the box, this thing is absolutely ridiculous as is - but we're quite certain that won't stop some folks from tweaking the LT7 for even more. We can't wait to see what happens next.
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