Manoli Katakis 
Haven’t you heard? The 2022 Corvette Z06 is coming. And it’s arguably the most radical take on any production Corvette ever. Going mid-engine with the C8 generation was one thing… but to forego a tried-and-true small block for a ground-up, brand new DOHC flat plane crank V8 engine designed to howl like a banshee is something that’s truly outside the framework of what Corvettes – America’s Sports Car – have traditionally been.
MC&T has been a leader in delivering C8 Corvette news long before Chevrolet wants you to know about it. And this recent spy video, shared by Autoblog and other outlets, confirm our initial reports that the 2022 Corvette Z06 will feature a naturally aspirated flat-plane DOHC V8, which is codenamed to be LT6. The engine is heavily based on what powers the IMSA championship-winning Corvette C8.R, and is expected to be the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine in any production car ever made. Have a listen to the 2022 Corvette Z06 engine sending its energy through the supercar’s exhaust for yourself in the video below:
The C8 Corvette Z06 reveal is expected to take place in the not-too-distant future, with rumors targeting a July 2021 timeframe. Production should then take place as early as late Q3 or the start of Q4 2021, while pricing is still to be determined. Though, in typical Corvette fashion, the MSRP of the C8 Z06 will likely mean it will run circles around whatever else is available relative to its price. Especially considering the $162,450 MSRP of its main rival, the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3.
The 2022 Corvette Z06 will be the first wide-bodied C8 to debut, as it needs to stretch out in order to tuck in those massive 345-section Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires, likely found on the Z07 package. The Z07 package will likely also add a unique, high-wing spoiler that’s fixed to the body and contoured to optimize both downforce and function of the rearview camera system.
Stay tuned for more.
