2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray Coasts into Second Year

After the next-gen 2014 model debuted to near-unanimous critical claim and and triple-digit sales increases, the 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray is making it clear that rivals won't be able to relax this year either: Not only will the hi-po Z06 Corvettes hit dealerships for the 2015 model year—complete with new options like an eight-speed automatic transmission and premium soft top—but so will two fresh design upgrades for the car.

Originally introduced at last year's SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the packages help provide fresh levels of personalization potential for today's Stingray owners. In fact, according to Kirk Bennion, Corvette exterior design manager: “One of the design goals for the Corvette Stingray was to provide customers with the flexibility to tailor the car to their personality. The Atlantic and Pacific Design Packages were originally designed to showcase how the Stingray could be configured as a luxury sport GT car or as a high-performance motorsport car.”

Thus, the Atlantic additions for the 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray were "inspired by the luxury and performance of private jets seen at European vacation destinations," and build on the already sophisticated design and jet-like athleticism of the Stingray Convertible. Only offered in tandem with the Z51 performance package and on up-level 2LT and 3LT trims, the Atlantic Design Package such standard enhancements as:

• A front splitter inspired by the one on the Z06
• Exclusive exterior graphics, including Shark Gray vents, tonneau inserts and a "stinger" logo for the hood
• Chrome Torque wheels set off by "Stingray" center caps
• An assortment of Atlantically oriented details, including a "Stingray" underhood line and matching floor mats, custom splashguards, specially logoed valve-stem caps and an exclusive license-plate frame

Also, to help reinforce that whole "European vacation" theme, the Atlantic Design Package for the 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray comes complete with its own set of custom Corvette luggage.

(Note: Assuming the Z51 package for the 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray is unchanged from the 2014 setup, it will include an aero body kit, bigger brakes, a performance-tuned suspension with exclusive components, an electronic limited-slip differential and outputs of 460 hp/465 lb.-ft. of torque, representing bumps of 5 hp and 5 lb.-ft. of twist.)

2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray: Pacific for Performance

The 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray with its new Pacific package draws its cues from "West Coast drivers who attend weekend track events." On the other hand, with a hi-po Z51 upgrade of its own, matched to an array of Pacific performance enhancements, this competition-style coupe is ideal regardless of whether you do your driving on the Left Coast or just in the left lane.

Either way, the 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray Pacific model offers:

• Full-length, Satin Black racing stripes set off by Satin Black 20-inch wheels with red stripes, exposed red brake calipers, and "Stingray" center caps
• Carbon-fiber ground-effects kit, complemented by a carbon-fiber roof panel and Carbon Flash rear spoiler, outside mirrors and exterior badging
• Interior enhancements such as competition sport seats, carbon-fiber trim, and "Stingray" sill plates and floor mats
• Custom splashguards and license-plate frame  

After the Atlantic and Pacific packages are released for the 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray, owner can expect on ongoing slate of new variants in the future, too.

Said Todd Christensen, Corvette marketing manager:  “We plan to make news with the Corvette Stingray every year, in part by offering special-edition models that offer a unique, personal ownership experience. Our customers have told us they appreciate these limited-edition models, which have become an important part of the Corvette’s legacy.”

The Bowtie Brand also has announced two more significant changes for the new model year. First, drivers who prefer an automatic transmission will enjoy an eight-speed paddle-shifting unit, which replaces the six-speed autobox in the 2014 model and combines "world-class shift times that rival the best dual-clutch designs" and about a 5 percent bump in efficiency. Also coming is a Performance Data Recorder system that allows owners to rely on an integrated, high-def video camera to create driving videos then either share them with their friends or use the accompanying software to heat up their hot laps yet further.

Pricing for the 2015 Chevy Corvette Stingray and its Atlantic/Pacfic packages will be released at a later date.