2022 Chevrolet Corvette vs 2021 Chevrolet Corvette

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, with its striking flying buttresses behind each seat, presented a visual conundrum when compared to the Corvette Coupe with its targa roof panel removed. The Convertible's power retractable hardtop, which lowered in 18 seconds and raised in 22 seconds, offered a seamless open-air experience without leaving the driver's seat. Despite its appearance, the Convertible felt more open with the top down, amplifying the engine's roar and exhaust notes to an exhilarating degree. However, the Convertible's design did come with trade-offs, such as reduced rear visibility and the inoperability of the rear camera mirror when the top was down. The Coupe, on the other hand, allowed for a clear view of the engine under glass, a feature that added to its allure, especially at night. Both models shared the same performance and exotic proportions, making them equally rewarding despite the Convertible's higher price tag.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette continued to impress with its Ferrari-like styling, featuring an engine under glass, side air intakes, and a sleek, tapered body. The Coupe retained its targa-style removable roof panel, while the Convertible boasted a retractable hardtop that could be lowered in 16 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h. The Corvette's interior was unmistakable, with a bold square steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, and a dashboard layout that paid homage to classic Corvettes. The design choices, including the spine-like structure separating driver and passenger, emphasized the car's driver-centric focus. While the Corvette's exterior and interior design were undeniably exciting, the lack of specific Corvette identifiers left some enthusiasts yearning for more distinct branding.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, equipped with the optional Z51 Performance Package, delivered an impressive 495 horsepower at 6,450 rpm and 470 pound-feet of torque at 5,150 rpm. This power was harnessed by a 6.2-litre V8 engine, propelling the car with exhilarating speed. The Corvette's eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission added character, despite occasional hesitation. The Z51 Package enhanced the driving experience with performance-tuned Magnetic Ride Control adaptive dampers, performance brakes, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. The Corvette's mid-engine layout contributed to its dynamic handling, offering a satisfying driving experience with excellent forward visibility. The car's multiple driving modes, including My Mode and Z Mode, allowed for customizable configurations, making it adaptable to various driving conditions.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette maintained the same 6.2-litre V8 engine, producing 490 hp and 465 pound-feet of torque, or 495 hp and 470 lb-ft with the performance exhaust system. The engine received calibration changes and an upgraded direct injection system for 2022, enhancing its performance. The Corvette's dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission provided seamless gear changes, contributing to its impressive 0-96 km/h time of 2.9 seconds with the Z51 package. The Corvette's steering was precise and communicative, and its chassis was eager to change directions, making it playful and approachable. The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension ensured a comfortable ride, even on rough roads, while maintaining the car's sporty character. The Corvette's performance was complemented by its excellent forward visibility and driver-centric design, making it a joy to drive.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette's interior was characterized by its unique design, featuring a digital instrumentation panel and Chevrolet's infotainment technology. The squarish steering wheel and climate controls running along the dividing wall's ridge added to the car's bespoke interior. The GT2 seats, with premium Nappa leather upholstery, provided comfort and support, while the heated steering wheel added a touch of luxury. The Corvette offered 357 litres of cargo space, with a rear trunk and a deep well under the hood, accommodating three roll-aboard suitcases. However, the wireless smartphone charger was inconveniently placed between the seats, making it difficult to access.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette's interior continued to prioritize driving over practicality. The mid-engine layout resulted in two trunks, providing a total of 357 litres of cargo space. The rear trunk could hold a set of golf clubs, while the front trunk accommodated an airline carry-on bag. However, removing the roof occupied the entire rear trunk, reducing cargo space significantly. The Corvette's driver-centric cockpit featured a square steering wheel, easy-to-reach touchscreen, and an arched centre console for convenient control access. Rear visibility was limited, but large mirrors and optional camera systems helped mitigate this issue. The GT2 bucket seats offered ample bolstering and comfort, with power adjustment and lumbar support options.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2LT trim included a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a volume knob and home button for easy operation. The Corvette also offered a Performance Data Recorder, acting as an embedded GoPro for recording driving sessions. The 14-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system provided excellent sound quality, while Chevrolet Connected Services offered additional features like a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and SiriusXM satellite radio.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette's technology suite included a standard 8-inch touchscreen and 12-inch digital instrument cluster, with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and a built-in WiFi hotspot. Navigation was standard on all trims except the base 1LT, and a head-up display was available. The infotainment system was intuitive, with simple graphics and analog controls for climate and audio functions. The 14-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system delivered decent sound quality, though it competed with the engine noise. The Performance Data Recorder captured dashcam video and track data, while the front-end lift system prevented bodywork scraping on steep driveways.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette offered standard Teen Driver technology, allowing parents to monitor young drivers' behaviour. Chevrolet Connected Services provided automatic collision notification and emergency calling. Visibility enhancements, including a rearview camera mirror and blind-spot monitoring, were available on higher trims. However, the Corvette lacked modern advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, emphasizing its focus on driving engagement.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette was light on driver-assist tech, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available on higher trims. These features helped mitigate the car's limited rear visibility. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable, as sports cars like the Corvette were not a priority for testing due to low sales volumes.