As the curtain begins to fall on the C8-generation Corvette, Chevrolet has unveiled the Grand Sport as its final swansong. The Grand Sport nameplate has long been reserved for closing the chapters of a Corvette generation — serving as the ultimate send-off before a new generation takes its place.
Adding to the history of the Grand Sport, Corvette Chief Engineer Josh Holder on The GAS podcast as reported by American Cars and Racing, said, “It’s hard to say we’re ever done, we’re never done, we’re always tweaking and improving things, but as far as a model lineup, the Grand Sport is going to round out the eighth generation of Corvette, for sure.”
The Grand Sport originally debuted on the C2-generation Corvette as a purpose-built race car. This time around, Chevrolet describes the new model as a “modern take” on its traditional role — positioned as the sweet spot in the lineup, blending visceral V8 performance with distinctive styling and everyday drivability.
The C8 Corvette first broke cover in mid-2019 as the nameplate’s first-ever mid-engined production model in its 66-year history. It initially launched in Stingray form, before Chevrolet gradually expanded the lineup with the more hardcore Z06 in 2021 and the electrified E-Ray in 2023. This was followed by the ZR1 in 2024, and ultimately the range-topping ZR1X in 2025.
Here in the C8 Corvette Grand Sport, it debuts a new “next-generation” 6.7-litre LS6 V8, delivering up to 535 hp and 705 Nm of torque to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Featuring a larger displacement, the new engine also benefits from a higher 13.0:1 compression ratio for sharper response. It is further equipped with larger 95 mm throttle bodies and a tunnel ram intake with high-velocity ports, improving airflow for greater power output.
Alongside the Grand Sport, Chevrolet is also leveraging its hybrid expertise from the E-Ray and ZR1X with the introduction of the Grand Sport X. This variant adds an electric motor to the front axle, enabling an eAWD (electric all-wheel drive) setup derived from the ZR1X. Combined with the V8, total system output rises to 721 hp, with the front motor alone contributing an additional 186 hp and 197 Nm (145 lb-ft) of torque.
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Chevrolet has yet to release official acceleration times. But for context, the standard C8 Stingray, powered by a smaller 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 with 495 hp and 637 Nm, manages the 0-96 km/h (60 mph) sprint in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 312 km/h.
The electrified system also brings several drive modes. Endurance mode, activated via the Charge+ function, optimises battery usage for extended lapping while maintaining consistent eAWD performance throughout a full tank. Qualifying mode unlocks the car’s full potential for the fastest possible lap times, while Push-to-Pass delivers maximum power on demand for short bursts. There’s also a Stealth mode, allowing the Grand Sport X to run on electric power alone at speeds of up to 80.5 km/h (50 mph).
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On the outside, the Grand Sport gets a more aggressive look to match its performance. It features a quad centre-exit exhaust setup and Chevrolet’s Z52 Sport Performance Package as standard. For those seeking even sharper track capability, the Z52 Track Performance Package adds a suite of upgrades, including carbon-ceramic J57 brakes, grippier Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres, as well as a host of aerodynamic enhancements such as a carbon-fibre front splitter, dive planes, extended side rockers, rear wing and underbody strakes.
Design-wise, signature Grand Sport hash marks — previously seen on the front fenders of the C4, C6 and C7 — have been repositioned to the rear for the first time, subtly highlighting the Corvette’s mid-engined layout. Chevrolet also revives the iconic Admiral Blue Metallic exterior colour, last offered on the C4 generation, adding a touch of heritage to the modern design.
For added sportiness, the Grand Sport comes standard with 10-spoke forged aluminium wheels, while lightweight five-spoke carbon-fibre wheels are available as an option for those seeking maximum performance.
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