The base Chevrolet Corvette model will get a larger and more powerful engine starting with the 2027 model year.

The news was announced when General Motors unveiled the new Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport, which makes its debut for the 2027 model year. The company’s new LS6 V8 engine makes its debut in the Grand Sport.

While announcing the launch of the Grand Sport, the automaker also said the base ‘Vette model, the Stingray, will get the new engine as well.

“There is no replacement for displacement. Our next generation LS6 engine pushes 409 cubic inches of jackhammer fury through the tailpipes,” Mike Kociba, GM’s assistant chief engineer, next generation V8, said in a news release. “Combining large displacement, modern technology, and proven small block V8 heritage will deliver a bold new chapter in performance.”

New engine vs. old

The new LS6 engine has a displacement of 6.7 litres and it produces produces 535 hp and 520 lb.-ft.

The current Stingray uses a 6.2-litre V8 engine with 490 hp and 465 lb.-ft. of toque (495 hp and 470 lb.-ft. with the Z51 Performance Package).

The new engine also has increased power and torque across the rev band and has sharper response.

GM said the engine’s new lubrication system, forged pistons and rods and revised exhaust manifolds also ensure durability in extended high-load, high-temperature driving.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Other updates for the Stingray

Besides giving the Stingray the most powerful engine on a base model Corvette, the automaker made other updates for the Stingray to improve performance.

The 2027 Corvette Stingray will, for the first time in the C8 generation, have an available centre exhaust option.

Engineers also updated the calibrations for the optional magnetic ride control suspension to improve body control and optimize performance.

The Z51 Performance Package gives the car a shorter final drive ratio of 5.56:1 to give it a more immediate throttle response. Additionally, the package gets adjusted aerodynamics and gives the car newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport 5S tires.

The 2027 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, as well as the new Grand Sport and Grand Sport X models, will go into production at GM’s Bowling Green assembly plant this summer.

Canadian pricing will be announced later.

For updates, visit the Chevrolet Canada website.

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