Spied! 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7 Racing Around GM’s Proving Grounds

[Curacao]

As good as the current Chevrolet Corvette is, we all know there’s plenty of room for improvement. The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7 underneath all that camouflage could have the dynamic improvements that will help the car challenge a surprisingly crowded field that includes the SRT Viper, Nissan GT-R, and Porsche 911.

Caught at GM’s proving grounds, the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette prototype reveals meaty quad exhaust outlets and what appears to be four circular taillights, a long-time Corvette styling cue. While the C6 introduced to the lineup HID headlights, don’t be surprised if the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette introduces HID headlights that turn around corners or, maybe as an option, full LED headlights. Expect a resculpted and more aggressive front fascia and grille, as well as improved aerodynamics to improve high-speed stability and fuel economy.

Yes, even on a 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7, fuel economy is important. While a six-cylinder engine may be offered at some point during the next-generation Corvette’s lifecycle, a new version of the small-block V-8 with a displacement of about 5.5 liters and close to 440 hp will be featured under the hood, powering a lighter car. Direct-injection and cylinder deactivation technologies are possible additions, and expect the Corvette to use the newest generation of the magnetorheological shock absorbers found on the 2013 Camaro ZL1. The 2013 Chevrolet Corvette is EPA-rated as high as 15-16/25-26 mpg city/highway — the 2014 Corvette may pass those numbers by at least 10 percent.

Though one of the current Corvette’s biggest issues has been its lackluster interior, ultimately, the car will compete based on the quality of the driving experience. The new Corvette may use a shorter wheelbase and it’s been said the car may at some point incorporate a seven-speed manual and eight-speed automatic.

Retooling on the car’s Bowling Green factory has already begun, suggesting the 2014 Corvette may debut at the upcoming Detroit auto show and roll into dealerships after the middle of the 2013 calendar year. The 2013 Chevrolet Corvette carries a base price of $50,575; a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters costs $1250.

As we get closer to the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette’s reveal, we want to get your thoughts again: What should be Chevrolet’s focus with the 2014 Corvette?


More pictures: http://motortrend.com