UK Buyers To Get New 'Vette

America's favourite sports car has got a brand new look. These are the first shots of the next Chevrolet Corvette, which wowed crowds at this week's Detroit Motor Show. And the great news for all Brits is that we've learned it has been engineered for right-hand drive.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Craig Cheetham

08th January 2004

Called the C6 - as it's the sixth incarnation of the model - the newcomer replaces the smaller, less aggressively styled C5. It has a more rounded nose and narrower headlamps than the outgoing car, but still boasts the distinctive wedge profile and kicked-up rear end. In Corvette tradition, this version sports four round tail-lights and large side strakes.

The car goes into production in the summer with prices tipped to start at ,000 - around ΂£17,000. A Convertible will follow and is likely to appear in US showrooms by the end of the year.

For British fans, it looks as if the C6 could be coming here officially; Auto Express has discovered that GM intends to export the entire Chevrolet range to Europe over the next few years, and right-hand-drive versions are in the pipeline. The C6 is powered by GM's new LS2 engine, which has been in development for the past two years.

The unit is a 6.0-litre small block V8, and is said to be one of the most efficient and frugal engines of such a high capacity, returning more than 25mpg. It develops 400bhp and 550Nm of torque, and buyers will have a choice of five-speed auto or six-cog manual gearboxes. Chevrolet will also offer a close-ratio six-speed as part of a performance pack, which will include adjustable suspension and a weight reduction kit.

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