The 2026 Corvette ZR1X has been unveiled, pushing the boundaries of performance with an almost unbelievable 1,250 total system horsepower from its advanced hybrid powertrain.
An LT7 V8, making 1,064 hp and 828 lb-ft of torque, sends power to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. A compact electric motor on the front axle generates an additional 186 hp and 145 lb-ft, sending power to the front wheels. While essentially the same electric setup as that found in the E-Ray, it has been strengthened for use in the ZR1X, allowing it to produce an additional 26 hp and 20 lb-ft of torque. Performance numbers are predictably eye-watering, with Chevy quoting a sub 2 second 0-60 run with the quarter mile taking less than 9 seconds.
The 1.9-kWh battery pack for the hybrid system is mounted in the center of the chassis along the floor. It also features enhanced performance compared to the one found in the E-Ray, with a higher peak operative voltage and more usable energy.
GM’s Magnetic Ride Control comes standard on all ZR1Xs, with buyers able to choose between two different chassis configurations. A standard chassis configuration comes with Michelin PS4S tires and is tuned for more of a GT experience, striking a balance between on-road comfort and performance. An available ZTK Performance Package offers higher spring rates, resulting in a firmer ride and enhanced track performance, and features grippier Michelin Pilot Cup 2R tires.
An available Carbon Aero package adds underbody strakes, dive planes, a hood gurney, and a more effective rear wing. This package, capable of adding 1,200 lbs of downforce at top speed, will come standard on ZTK Performance Package-equipped vehicles and be optional on those equipped with the standard chassis.
The ZR1X will come standard with the J59 carbon-ceramic brake package, which is optional on the ZR1. This package adds giant 16.5-inch front and rear rotors mated with 10-piston front and 6-piston rear calipers and is capable of producing 1.9G of deceleration from 180 to 120 mph.
The ZR1X’s eAWD system, while derived from the E-Ray’s system, features significantly upgraded components for improved performance both on and off the track. Three energy “strategies” can be activated by a steering wheel-mounted button. Push-to-pass gives you quick access to max power, a Qualifying mode is tuned for optimal lap times, while an Endurance mode enables longer lap sessions and more consistent eAWD output. A new PTM Pro setting disables the traction and stability control systems but keeps the regenerative braking torque vectoring, front axle pre-control, and launch control on.
The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X will be available in both coupe and convertible forms. Visually, it doesn’t look significantly different from the standard ZR1, except for some ZR1X-specific badges. Still, it will feature the same extreme, supercar-like styling, and dramatic, aero-focused body cladding. For the eagle-eyed, an extra intercooler can be found on the front bumper.
Inside, buyers will find the same updated cabin as other 2026 Corvettes, which saw the controversial “wall of buttons” replaced with a more conventional arrangement and an updated digital display configuration featuring a new screen to the left of the driver’s display.
Chevy says the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X has been planned from the beginning of the C8’s development. “From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with ZR1X in mind,” said General Motors senior VP Ken Morris. “This is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history, supporting the widest range of American sports cars and delivering world-class performance at every level.”
The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X will be built at General Motors’ Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky, with its LT7 V8 handbuilt by master builders at the Bowling Green Performance Build Center.
Pricing and availability information will be announced at a later date; however, expect it to start at a price higher than the 2026 ZR1’s $189,195 starting price.