Manoli Katakis 
The C8 Corvette Z06 is having a hard time hiding. What with all the spy photos, engine leaks, and of course, a little bit scoops brought to light by yours truly, and this new Corvette variant is easily the most anticipated American performance vehicle debut of the year. Adding to the pile of information is an alleged leaked image of the 2022 Corvette Z06 logo. The image was originally published on the MidEngineCorvetteForum, before making rounds elsewhere.
Confirming with MC&T sources, the image above is indeed the real deal, and not just a rendering. The C8 Corvette Z06 will have this sinisterly darkened logo, which is the first for the nameplate. Traditionally, we’ve seen the “Z” at least colorized with red. We’re sure there’s more where this came from, and as we’ve seen with leaks leading up to the reveal of the mid-engined 2020 Corvette Stingray, there’s bound to be a few more details trickling out before the official debut of the C8 Z06. And you just might find some of them here. The ‘Z’ logo also kind of looks like the Z-Mode button inside the Corvette’s cockpit, but we’re told it’s more to celebrate the flat-plane crankshaft V8 engine design.
2022 Corvette Z06 Details
The 2022 Corvette Z06 is rumored to debut in July 2021. With the GM Bowling Green Assembly plant birthing out 2021 model year Corvettes until at least August, it would seem like this rumor holds water. That said, the official start of Z06 production will likely not happen that soon, but remains under wraps for now.
When this wide-body Corvette does hit the market, expect it to do so with the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine to ever be featured in a production car. Output is expected to be just over 600 horsepower, which is indeed less than the 650 C7 Corvette Z06, but the C8 Z06 does so without the aid of a supercharger, and a redline that climbs over 2,000 rpm higher than its predecessor.
Ultimately, with this new Z06, which will share semblance with the Corvette Racing C8.R, it’s all about lapping the road course as fast as possible. Aiding the flat-plane crank LT6 V8 will be a radical set of aerodynamic options, which are likely to deliver more downforce than any Corvette before it. Additionally, a set of 345-section Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R rear tires and and serving-tray-sized Brembo brake rotors will assist the 2022 Corvette Z06 in corner entry and exit.
