2023 Chevrolet Corvette Pros and Cons: Reasons To Love and Hate This C8
The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette marks the 70th anniversary of America’s sports car. In that time, the so-called “Plastic Fantastic” has evolved from an anemic drop-top fun machine to a bleeding-edge performance car. Check out some of the pros and cons of the 2023 Corvette, like its controversial interior.
What are the pros of a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray?
The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette rides on the midengine Corvette platform, an evolutionary step from the C7’s front-engine design. However, the pros don’t stop there.
- Blistering speed and competent handling for its price point
- Higher horsepower than direct competitors
- Z51 Package enhances the Stingray’s handling
- Removable roof panel in coupe models for sun-soaked rides without losing rigidity
- 70th Anniversary Edition could be collectible
- Daily-driver-friendly features like a nose lift make the Stingray surprisingly commute-compliant
With 490 horsepower on tap and steadfast balance, even the non-Z51 Corvette launches hard and corners confidently. Of course, the Z51 Package adds features like performance suspension and dual-mode exhaust, which adds an extra five horsepower for a total of 495, per Car and Driver. At the Corvette’s starting price point of around $65,995, no other performance car on the market offers the same budget-friendly brutality.
However, the 2023 Corvette isn’t just snappy launches and track-ready cornering acumen; the midengine ‘Vette is a surprisingly capable commuter. For instance, a GPS-capable electric nose lift can help drivers clear speed bumps and remember where they are on their routes.
What are the cons of a Corvette?
Of course, the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette isn’t without its faults.
- Fully loaded examples reach six-figure price tags
- Isolating interior is less-than-engaging for passengers
- Squared-off steering wheel is controversial
- Thirsty LT2 V8 engine isn’t quite up to hybrid standards
- Angular exterior styling can be polarizing
While the Corvette’s competitive price point makes it a performance bargain, a fully loaded 3LT will demand over $100,000. At that price, the 3LT Z51 Convertible is not far off from the entry-level 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera, a perennial rival for the ‘Vette. Furthermore, the Corvette’s sloped bank of controls creates a literal wall between driver and passenger. Also, the Corvette’s less-than-round steering wheel is functional, if also a point of contention for some purists.
Beyond the driver-oriented and isolating layout of the interior, the Corvette’s exterior styling is a bit polarizing. While many fans and journos tout the ‘Vette’s angular, almost fighter-jet-like lines as a victory for the model, some observers criticize the aggressive lines and sharp lighting as “un-Corvette.” Frankly, you can’t please everyone.
Finally, despite features like cylinder shutdown, the C8 model’s EPA-estimated 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway is less than efficient. Still, for a V8-powered performance car, any highway figure over 20 mpg is arguably commendable.
Is a Corvette a good everyday car?
The Corvette is surprisingly adept at conquering commutes and everyday driving thanks to its 12.6 cubic feet of storage, “frunk” space, and a removable roof panel. Moreover, cylinder shutdown reduces the LT2’s thirst at highway speeds, making for a deceptively efficient commuter.
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