2020 Chevy Corvette

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Overview

With a heritage dating back to the 1950s, the Chevrolet Corvette has firmly established itself in the realm of high-performance cars.

And, we are thrilled to confirm that the eight-generation 2020 Corvette surpasses all expectations. In fact, the eighth-generation Corvette, also known as the C8, takes the Corvette tradition to an entirely new level by featuring a powerful V-8 engine mounted behind the passenger compartment, similar to renowned models from Porsche, Ferrari, and McLaren, but at a significantly lower cost.

Delivering supercar-level performance and astonishingly precise handling, the Corvette equipped with the Z51 package shines as a track day favorite. Despite its remarkable performance capabilities, Chevy’s engineers have managed to ensure a comfortable ride suitable for daily commuting and long-distance road trips.

Available in both coupe and convertible variants, the futuristic and alluring two-seat cabin of the Corvette provides a cockpit-like environment that envelops the driver. Surprisingly, the interior is remarkably spacious and accommodating for full-size adults. Additionally, the 2020 Vette interior boasts a range of premium materials, exuding the aura of a high-end sports car.

Yet, what truly sets the Chevrolet’s new C8 Corvette Stingray apart is not just its impressive 0-to-60 mph time of under 3 seconds, its cornering grip of 1.0 G, or even its rear-engine configuration. The most astonishing aspect is that all these features come packed in a boldly styled sports car priced at $59,995 (including destination charge), a mere $500 more than the base price of a 2020 Ford Explorer Platinum. It’s unparalleled how much performance this car offers for such an affordable price.

Before assuming that the $59,995 Corvette is merely a gimmick designed to make headlines, rest assured that the base Corvette leaves no room for disappointment. In truth, it satisfies the needs of the majority of Corvette enthusiasts.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Trims

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Exterior

As the Chevy Corvette hits the road, it effortlessly grabs attention from all around. Yet, the reactions it elicits span a wide range, from sheer amazement to some individuals who can’t quite believe their eyes, questioning in disbelief, “Is that a McLaren?”

Gone is the iconic elongated hood that defined its predecessors, replaced by a noticeably shorter front end adorned with sleek lines that exude a supercar-like allure. The C8 showcases a captivating design that propels this legendary vehicle into unexplored realms, particularly when viewed from the front three-quarter angle.

While the squared-off rear end stays faithful to the Corvette’s signature style, the proportions may seem somewhat peculiar due to the mid-engine placement, which pushes the cabin forward, resulting in a slightly unbalanced appearance. Nevertheless, irrespective of personal opinions about its looks, the Corvette effortlessly commands attention and makes its presence known wherever it goes.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Interior

Design and Quality

In comparison to its predecessor, the interior of the 2020 Corvette exhibits a notable leap in sophistication and craftsmanship. The cabin exudes elegance, featuring an abundance of soft-touch padding throughout, richly colored leather, impeccable stitching, and purposeful, tactile hardware, including real metal accents. The quality of the leather used in the Corvette is truly top-notch, surpassing anything seen in previous models. It’s clear that the new cockpit is miles ahead of its predecessor in terms of refinement.

For those opting for the more upscale 3LT versions from Chevrolet, the experience is even more lavish. Nappa leather upholstery, exquisitely sewn leather adorning most of the interior surfaces, carbon-fiber trim, and a wealth of creature comforts elevate the overall luxury.

However, it would be unjust to claim that Chevrolet skimped on the base C8 model. Perforated leather upholstery along with plentiful soft-touch surfaces all convey a sense of substance and high quality. Ultimately, the 2020 Corvette Stingray 1LT stands as an unparalleled sports car bargain. It would be a daunting task to find a comparable experience elsewhere for the price of $59,995.

Practicality, Ergonomics, and Visibility

The interior of the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette is futuristic, yet surprising practicality. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be enveloped by an interior that resembles the cockpit of a fighter jet. While the cockpit may initially appear intricate, the controls are surprisingly straightforward, and everything is positioned with the driver in mind. Prepare to be captivated by the driving position and the exceptional forward visibility it offers.

A square steering wheel, reminiscent of those found in Formula One cars, provides an unobstructed view of the instruments. The 8-inch infotainment screen is right at your fingertips, literally! It’s perfectly angled towards you, making it easy to access.  Oh, and those metal paddle shifters? They’re so cool to the touch, and the satisfying clack-clack sound they make when you shift gears will give you an adrenaline rush.

But here comes the twist! Picture this: a control panel smack dab in the middle, right between the driver and passenger seats, creating a whimsical division that will make your co-pilot feel they are in a different car. But here’s the blessing in disguise: if you have friends with a case of Music ADD, you can bid farewell to their incessant radio tweaking every five seconds.

Speaking of co-pilots, having one in 1LT cars is advisable because there is a significant amount of engine and plastic separating you from the road. Unfortunately, features such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and a camera-based rearview mirror are not available in the 1LT model, so you’ll have to rely on your passenger to check those blind spots.

Cargo Space

Cargo space is often not a top priority for sports car enthusiasts. However, even with a slight reduction in cubic feet for 2020, the Corvette coupe still provides more storage capacity compared to many luxury sports cars.

In the newest Corvette model, there are two separate areas for storing items. One is situated in front of the passenger compartment, while the other is located behind the engine. This configuration provides a combined storage capacity of 13 cubic feet. As per Chevrolet’s specifications, the rear compartment is roomy enough to hold two sets of vertically stacked golf clubs.

2020 Chevy Corvette Features

Corvette Stingray 1LT

Key features on the 1LT trim include:

• 8-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
• 12-inch customizable information display
• 10-speaker Bose audio system
• Leather upholstery
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Eight-way power-adjustable seats
• Keyless entry and go
• Chevy’s Teen Driver system
• Rear parking sensors
• Rearview camera (coupe models)
• Rearview camera mirror (convertible models)

Corvette Stingray 2LT

The 2LT trim adds:

• Upgraded 14-speaker Bose audio system
• Wireless device charging
• Navigation
• Additional power adjustability for the seats with memory settings
• Heated and ventilated seats
• Performance data recorder
• Heated steering wheel
• Head-up display
• Front curb-view camera
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Corvette Stingray 3LT

The 3LT trim adds:

• Upgraded seats with Nappa leather upholstery
• Suede leather and carbon-fiber trim

One notable option is the Z51 Performance Package, which can be added for an additional $5,000.

Which trim should you buy on the 2020 Chevy Corvette?

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette offers three trims: 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT, with the option to upgrade to a convertible version for an additional cost.

With a shared 6.2-liter V8 engine across all trims, the base Corvette leaves no room for disappointment; it is an exceptional driver’s car. Furthermore, the 1LT trim exudes a sense of sophistication that sets it apart from being considered a “base Corvette.” It boasts the same style appeal as the more expensive Vettes.

To maximize the Corvette’s performance without significantly raising the price, we highly recommend opting for the impressive Z51 package, available at an additional $5000. This package ensures your Corvette remains as performance-oriented as possible.

Unless you specifically desire the extra driver assistance and comfort features included in the 2LT and 3LT trims, the well-equipped base model will likely meet your expectations.

Now, let’s talk about roof options. It’s important to note that every Corvette hardtop comes with a manually removable roof. Driving with the roof off accounts for 70% of the convertible experience. However, if convenience matters to you, then opting for the convertible version might be worthwhile.

Chevy Corvette Driving Experience

Engine

• Powertrain: 6.2-liter V8
• Horsepower: 495 hp @ 6,450 RPM
• Torque: 470 lb-ft @ 5,150 RPM
• Transmission: eight-speed dual-clutch transmission
• Drivetrain: rear-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds (with optional Z51 Package)
• EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway): 15/27 MPG

The most significant change that grabs attention in the new Corvette is the placement of the new 6.2-liter small block LT2 V8 engine in the middle of the car. However, it is unfair to consider the LT2 as an upgrade from the C7’s LT1, as it offers far more than that.

In reality, only a few components are carried over from its predecessor, making it easier to list what remains the same (such as the combustion chamber design, valve train, cylinder head, and the 87 mm throttle body) rather than what has been completely revamped (almost everything else).

With the Z51 package, the LT2 engine delivers an impressive 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The acceleration is on par with supercars, with the Corvette C8 reaching 60 mph in a remarkable 2.9 seconds. This places it in the league of the previous-generation Z06 and ZR1 models, despite having at least 150 horsepower less.

Performance

Ultimately, what truly defines the Corvette is the unparalleled driving experience it offers. With 490 horsepower and a sleek 3,500-pound body, the acceleration is incredibly exhilarating, delivering neck-snapping speed. In fact, it’s an exceptional value for performance, providing the fastest experience you can get with a $60,000 budget.

Remarkably, the Corvette’s versatility is another standout feature. It effortlessly transitions from a lightning-fast and highly responsive supercar to a relaxed and comfortable vehicle perfect for leisurely countryside drives. Even with a gentle touch on the throttle, the abundant torque allows you to effortlessly maneuver through traffic without drawing attention from the V8 engine.

Part of this versatility stems from the excellently tuned drive modes. Whether you desire enhanced comfort for long highway journeys or crave performance-oriented settings for exhilarating track days, the Corvette can be adjusted accordingly. Engaging the tour mode results in a surprisingly quiet engine and a smooth transmission, which can make it difficult to perceive just how fast you’re going until you hit the brakes.

In essence, the Corvette is so well-rounded that it could easily serve as your sole car.

Transmission

The new Corvette is equipped with the Tremec TR9080, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is the sole option available.

However, it’s important to note that despite the absence of traditional manual transmission, the dual-clutch automatic transmission in the Corvette is exceptional. In fact, it reaches world-class levels of performance, leaving you astounded that such an impressive transmission comes at such an affordable price point.

During everyday driving, the shifts are seamlessly executed, and when Sport or Sport+ modes are engaged, the responses become significantly sharper, resulting in lightning-fast gear changes.

For those who prefer manual control, the Corvette offers a manual mode with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The responsiveness is impressive, with minimal delay between activating the paddles and the transmission executing up- or downshifts. However, it’s worth noting that the transmission’s logic is highly intelligent, adapting to your driving style and level of enthusiasm.

As a result, you may find it more enjoyable to simply let the car handle the shifting on its own, as it does an excellent job of intuitively responding to your preferences.

Sound

The standard exhaust on the 1LT trim of the Corvette is notably quiet, providing a refined experience. However, for enthusiasts seeking a more spirited and audacious sound characteristic of a mid-engine car, the recommended option is the performance exhaust system, available at an additional cost of $1,195.

This exhilarating exhaust system can also be found in the Z51 package. It unleashes the full potential of the Corvette’s impressive 6.2-liter engine, delivering a captivating and memorable auditory experience that enthusiasts will find irresistible.

Handling

Despite its lower starting price compared to other mid-engined performers, such as those hailing from Italy, the 2020 Corvette impressively lacks any compromises in its driving dynamics.

When it comes to tackling winding roads, the Corvette excels at exhilarating speeds, gripping the pavement with tenacity and exuding the confident demeanor of a car purpose-built for the task. The faster you push it, the more the C8 comes alive. The steering is razor-sharp, resembling that of a race car, while the cornering limits seem virtually unreachable on public roads.

Simultaneously, for novice drivers, the C8 provides a sense of security with its inherent grip. Despite being a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, it possesses an almost all-wheel-drive character, ready to swiftly respond in any direction at any given moment.

Thanks to its mid-engine layout, the weight distribution between the front and rear is more balanced, and the lower placement of the engine contributes to a lower center of gravity. This results in a more planted and predictable driving experience. While the C7 Stingray and Grand Sport models may have had respectable traction, the C8 surpasses even those levels.

The various driving modes available allow you to customize the steering, brakes, and suspension responses. However, it’s worth noting that while the steering lacks the same level of communicative feel and feedback as a Porsche 911 or a McLaren 720S, we still firmly believe that the Corvette offers the best performance value for your money.

Ride Comfort

Despite the significant shift in layout and the ambitious performance goals of the C8, Chevrolet has managed to strike a remarkable balance with the base suspension. Rather than opting for an excessively firm setup, the ride quality of the Corvette is now more controlled and refined than ever before.

For those seeking an even more exceptional ride quality, opting for the optional Z51 Performance Suspension with Magnetic Ride Control is highly recommended.  It transforms the Corvette in one of the most comfortable sports cars you can drive.

Therefore, road trippers can rest assured that the Corvette is well-equipped to handle long journeys with ease and comfort.

Track Capabilities

When the Z51-equipped C8 Corvette is set up in its most aggressive track setting, it exhibits remarkable agility, darting from corner to corner with a sense of lightness and immediate responsiveness.

Notably, the Performance Traction Management (PTM) system plays a significant role in the Corvette’s exceptional handling. This advanced traction control system goes beyond traditional methods by cutting spark instead of solely relying on braking to bring the car back in line. The result is a racing-level traction management system that functions excellently.

However, it’s worth noting that the rear-end grip is so substantial that the traction control system serves more as a safety net rather than a necessity.

During intense track driving, the shifts become more aggressive, and the dual-clutch transmission (DCT) intelligently delays upshifts until exiting corners, minimizing any disruptions to the vehicle’s stability.

For individuals seeking a more immersive track experience, the optional Performance Data Recorder enables the review and analysis of track and autocross runs.

Nevertheless, even in its standard configuration, the new Corvette showcases remarkable handling capabilities and provides exhilarating excitement during track sessions.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have not conducted any crash tests on the 2020 Chevy Corvette, which is a common occurrence for high-end sports vehicles.

2020 Chevy Corvette: The Conclusion

Pros

• Gutsy and Refined powertrain
• Athletic on the track and plush on the road
• Premium interior
• Tech-laden driver cockpit
• Loads of customization with drive modes
• Supercar performance at an amazing price
• Avaiaible Z51 package

Cons

• Probably too refined for some
• No standard driver-assistance features
• Horrible rear visibility
• Climate control functions could have been simpler

Verdict

The 2020 Chevy Corvette is your supercar dream made more accessible. Its agile handling allows it to smoothly navigate corners, accompanied by an engine that emits a perfect lope. Its captivating appearance turns heads, while the driving experience gives the impression of a car valued at triple its price.

Notably, it serves as an exceptional road car suitable for daily use in any setting, evoking a sense of confidence. Unlike other mid-engine cars, it remains composed and relaxed even in urban environments, effortlessly cruising along as if it belongs.

However, its true potential is unleashed on a well-designed road, where it comes alive with its quick and nimble performance. The small-block V-8 engine again demonstrates its timeless appeal, proving that it will never become outdated.

What sets it apart is its ability to thrive in every conceivable environment. It effortlessly transitions between being a grand tourer, sports car, track car, drag racer and even a practical vehicle for transporting golf clubs. This versatility is unparalleled among its counterparts.

The best part is that you don’t necessarily need the top-of-the-line version to enjoy the majority of what the C8 has to offer. Even the lower trim levels provide scorching acceleration, exotic aesthetics, and a well-crafted interior that are the hallmarks of the C8 experience.

You can find great used examples of the Corvette C8 at SchumacherUsed, the largest used Chevy dealer in the Tri-State Area.

FAQs

Should you buy a used 2020 Chevrolet Corvette?

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette stands out as an exceptional used luxury sports car. With its mid-engine layout, it not only boasts visual appeal but also enhances performance. Its high-end cabin features luxurious materials, advanced technology, and versatile drive modes, allowing drivers to seamlessly switch between track-ready performance and comfortable daily driving.

 If you are thinking of purchasing an older model, we recommend reading our comprehensive 2020 Chevrolet Corvette review to assist you in making an informed decision.

Can you use the Corvette C8 as a daily driver?

In the realm of sports cars, ride comfort often takes a back seat to prioritize handling agility. However, the Corvette defies this convention. While showcasing exceptional handling prowess, the Corvette C8 manages to maintain an impressive level of ride comfort.

So, the Corvette is a versatile vehicle that can seamlessly transition between weekday commutes and weekend track sessions.

What are the unique features of the 2020 Chevy Corvette?

The 2020 Corvette offers unique features that make it stand out. It includes a lift system to safeguard the front end of the car from damage, as well as a “stealth mode” that darkens everything, except for vital information like vehicle speed and warnings. The driving modes have been enhanced with the addition of a customizable Z mode, enabling drivers to personalize various performance specifications. Furthermore, the Corvette boasts an available performance data recorder system.