Chevrolet is about to make some improvement in the performance capabilities of the Corvette. The improvement is expected to be brought about by introducing a series of enhancements for the 2012 model year car. The enhancements have been decided upon with the objective to offer an on track performance and on road comfort, the quality of both of which would be better than the prevalent. The improvements on the performance are subtle and they concern the Z06 and ZR1 models. The rest of the lineup of Corvette also gets to receive upgrade in interior and equipment department though those are modest at best.
Among the features that are new to the 2012 MY Corvette include optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires. The tires would be available for the Z06 and the ZR1 versions that have a max power rating of 505 and 638 HP respectively. These competition based tires have increased cornering and handling capacity in the warm and dry conditions. These in combination with the Performance Traction Management technology or PTM are expected to offer a 8 percent gain in maximum lateral acceleration for the car, which is more than 1.1 g. Then there is a corresponding enhancement in braking performance as well with considerably shorter braking distances achieved.
The new Michelins finds its inclusion in the optional Z07 performance package for the Corvette Z06 and a new PDE performance package on the ZR1. The tires actually feature brand new wheels that flaunt the aluminum Cup-style. The wheels have either a satin black or machined finishes. The weight by which the wheels have gone lighter is about 5 pounds or 2.2 kgs though the strength has gone up in that it is now stronger than even a 20 spoke wheel.
There is yet another upgrade – the racing style spoiler that is part of both the Z07 and PDE packages. The Z06 will also get the Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension technology and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes as part of the Z07 package. The optional extras that are further added make the inclusion of carbon fiber hood on the Z06 models and taller gearing for the ZR1 in 5th and 6th gear for an improvement of 2 mpg in the high way fuel economy rating.
As far as the inside of the car is concerned, all Corvette models of 2012 version will get new seat and steering wheel designs. Chevrolet describes the seats to have features like large bolsters and optional microfiber suede inserts. The bolsters contribute to the improvement in the lateral support. In addition to this, all models further receives contrasting color stitching that come in colors red, blue and yellow and padded center console and armrests.
Equipment levels of the car include the incorporation of a new Bose Audio System that has 9 speakers, 2 more than what was present in the 2011 version. The audio system is better tuned to the cabin’s acoustics. The 2LT trim level is said to be featuring new Technology Package that includes navigation, head up display, Bose premium audio system. In addition to all these, Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity and USB port will also be available in the coupe. After the long wait, the customers can finally make an option of choosing the braking caliper getting painted in red, yellow, silver or gray colors.
Production of the Corvette version 2012 begins in the month of July 2011.
Source: carscoop
