Geneva Motor Show: 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible Revs Onto Global Stage

A global American icon and what Chevy refers to as “the face of Chevrolet,” the Chevrolet Corvette is the stuff of dreams all around the world. It is, therefore, fitting that the redesigned 2014 Chevy Corvette Stingray Convertible debuted this week at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, one of the most internationally diverse auto shows on the planet.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible were developed at the same time, so the only structural changes required for the new Corvette Stingray Convertible are associated with accommodations related to the folding 3-ply fabric convertible top. The new roof is equipped with a glass rear window, and is power operated using a switch on the dashboard or a button on the key fob. Owners can peel the Corvette Stingray’s lid remotely, and the top operates at speeds up to 30 mph.

When the top is dropped, a hard tonneau cover hides it from sight. Like the previous Corvette Convertible, the Stingray includes a body-color “waterfall” design element that spills down between the seats from the rear deck, emblazoned with the redesigned Corvette “crossed flags” logo.

Another change for the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible is that models with the optional Z51 Performance Package have the rear air intake ducts, featured prominently on the Corvette Stingray Coupe’s haunches, relocated beneath the car due to space requirements for the folding top.

Otherwise, the new Corvette Stingray Convertible is offered with the same 450-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 engine as the Stingray Coupe, paired with a choice between a 7-speed manual gearbox with Active Rev Matching and a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. A Drive Mode Selector system allows the driver to calibrate the Corvette’s driving experience, and both the Z51 Performance Package and a Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension are offered as options.

Additional upgrades include real aluminum or carbon fiber interior trim, premium leather seats, an extended leather treatment, and a better audio system, that latter feature perfect for cranking a little Led Zeppelin while cruising around Boca Raton. After all, Chevy is looking to lower the average age of a Corvette buyer with the new 2014 model.