2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 coming to Australia! New flatplane V8 in fire-breathing GMSV flagship supercar screams all the way to 8600rpm redline

Chevrolet has not only revealed the fire-breathing Z06 version of the C8 Corvette, but also confirmed the new mid-engine supercar for right-hand-drive markets, including Australia.

Set to be available locally via GMSV, Corvette Z06’s RHD production run will begin “some months later” than left-hand-drive examples, which are due to begin rolling off the line in North America’s 2022 summer (June to August), according to Chevrolet.

GMSV says the Z06’s Australian timing – and pricing – will be revealed next year, although given the above schedule, it appears it will arrive locally in late 2022 at the earliest.

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So, what separates the Z06 from the C8 Corvette’s initial variant, the Stingray? Well, how does a hand-assembled 5.5-litre LT6 V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine with a flatplane crankshaft sound?

Essentially taken from the C8.R racecar, this unit produces a ludicrous 500kW of power at 8400rpm, and 623Nm of torque at 6300rpm. Better yet, it revs all the way to a screaming 8600rpm redline.

Like the Stingray, the Z06 is exclusively mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with drive sent to the rear wheels.

While the Z06’s acceleration and top speed claims are yet to be confirmed, Chevrolet has let slip that it’s capable of reaching at least 300km/h, so expect it to be very fast. And the fact the Stingray can hit 60mph (97km/h) in less than three seconds also bodes well.

The Z06 also stands out from the Stingray crowd with its unique front and rear fascias with wider fenders. The former is designed to optimise cooling, while the latter is punctuated by centralised quad exhaust tips and an adjustable wing spoiler.

Forged ‘spider’ alloy wheels are also fitted to the Z06, with the front and rear items measuring 20 and 21 inches respectively. That said, carbon-fibre alternatives are optionally available, reducing unsprung mass by 18.6kg.

Braking performance is suitably increased for the Z06, with it fitted with larger front (370mm) and rear (380mm) Brembo discs with six- and four-piston callipers respectively. However, carbon-ceramics items form part of the Z07 Performance Package.

The key option also comes with unique FE7 suspension with a unique Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 damper tune, a carbon-fibre aerodynamics package and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R ZP semi-slick tyres (front: 275/30, rear: 345/25).

Inside, the Z06 steps up with extensive carbon-fibre trim, including on the steering wheel, paddle, shifters, dashboard, centre console and door panels. Adrenaline Red is also a new leather colour option.

For reference, the Stingray is priced from $144,990 to $189,990 plus on-road costs in Australia. GMSV’s initial allocation of it has already sold out, with local deliveries to begin in the coming weeks.