2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Experience
Introduction
After my experience with the Corvette Z06, I found it to be a bit too powerful for everyday driving. I recommended considering the standard Corvette Stingray, especially if you're looking for a daily driver. However, after today's test, Chevrolet offers a much better solution with the Corvette Grand Sport, also known as the Z06 Lite, which we tested today.
History of the Grand Sport
The Grand Sport carries a historic badge that dates back to 1963, when only five Grand Sport cars were built specifically for racing. These models were distinguished by their lightweight construction and unique body enhancements that improved aerodynamics. Chevrolet introduced production versions of the Grand Sport in 1996 and 2010.
Exterior Design
The new model features enhancements from the Z06, equipped with air intakes on the front, hood, and sides, which aid in aerodynamics and mechanical cooling.
At the rear, a large wing increases downforce on the rear tires at high speeds for better grip on the road. This wing is designed in a way that maintains rear visibility, as it is semi-transparent in the center.
Additionally, this version is about 3 inches wider than the standard model and comes fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires mounted on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels.
Interior Design
The Grand Sport is equipped with high-end specifications, featuring sporty velvet leather seats that offer adjustable lumbar and side support for optimal comfort and support needed when driving a powerful vehicle.
The design is fully focused on the driver, ensuring that everything is within easy reach to maintain control without taking eyes off the road. The interior is adorned with elements that remind you of the Grand Sport's legacy.
Technological Features
The Grand Sport is equipped with features that make it a track-ready sports car while remaining suitable for daily use. It includes a range of sensors and front and rear cameras that facilitate parking this wide, low vehicle with ease.
It also features Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, with a touchscreen, navigation system, and a 10-speaker sound system from Bose.
The vehicle is equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control for the driver and passenger, a heads-up display, and a customizable instrument cluster that shows various information to keep your attention on driving, all controlled via steering wheel buttons.
Driving Experience
For a distinctive driving experience, the Corvette is equipped with a rotary dial that allows you to control driving modes, including Economy, Touring, Sport, and Track. In each mode, 12 different settings within the car are adjusted according to the desired driving style, including throttle sensitivity, steering weight, suspension, and the 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
I wish Chevrolet had manufactured the dial from metal instead of the current plastic material.
Vehicle Performance
When I drove the Corvette Z06, there was always a sense of excess power that was hard to harness on regular roads. However, with the Grand Sport, which delivers 460 horsepower from its 6.2-liter V8 engine, you get a more balanced driving experience, especially in corners, and it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds.
I was surprised by the Grand Sport's quiet operation when in "Economy" mode during regular speeds, alongside the light feel and ease of the steering wheel, which minimizes the impact of road imperfections. When switched to "Sport" mode, the sound of the quad exhaust valves opening is immediately noticeable, and you'll feel significant changes in the car's performance.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, I believe the Grand Sport is the best Corvette to use as a daily supercar. It combines the distinctive Z06 styling with enough power and excellent handling to provide the best and most enjoyable driving experience at this price point. When deciding to purchase the Corvette, be sure to ask the dealer about all the specifications and options available for the Grand Sport, as there are many and varied.
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