2012 Chevrolet Corvette Z06: Video Road Test and Review

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is a track-ready upgrade on the standard two-door, two-passenger Corvette coupe. The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is known for being an excellent performance value due to its relatively affordable purchase price when taking into account its handling and horsepower, and it also offers a range of upgrade packages that can further hone the vehicle's capabilities at high speeds. Under the hood, the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 comes standard with a 7.0-liter V-8 that churns out 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is the only available gearbox with the Z06, and the model also comes with a launch control system to help manage traction while accelerating. Fuel mileage for the Z06 is rated at 15-mpg city and 24-mpg highway.

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 1LZ trim (MSRP $75,600) comes with an all-aluminum frame, carbon-fiber floor panels and front fenders, variable power steering, enormous six-piston brakes up front (four-piston in the rear) and a supplementary cooling system for its rear differential and transmission. On the inside the Corvette Z06 1LZ features a head-up display and power leather seats, while the 2LZ trim ($79,910) introduces dual automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, seat heaters, a navigation system and a Bose stereo system. The Z06 3LZ ($84,415) offers a full leather interior and unique suede-trimmed sport seats.

For drivers who need even more earth-shattering performance out of the Corvette Z06, there are two available options packages that dial up the adrenaline. The Z06 Ultimate Performance package swaps in lighter wheels, race rubber, the Performance Traction Management system, carbon-ceramic brakes and an adaptive suspension system - equipment that is largely lifted from the Corvette ZR-1 supercar. The Carbon Fiber package reduces the Z06's mass by replacing many body panels with carbon fiber equivalents.

A list of cars similar to the Z06 includes the 2012 Porsche Cayman, 2012 BMW M3 and 2012 Audi TT-RS.

See more details about the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Z06.