Long known for its panache and sheer brute force, the Corvette has been reborn for 2014 as a lighter, tighter, high-tech sports car. Previous Vettes delivered quick acceleration, but handling wasn't up to that of the Porsche 911 and other European thoroughbreds. The new Corvette has narrowed the gap, with quick reflexes, flat cornering, and less of the nose-heavy sensation of older models. Moreover, gone is the cheap interior of past Vettes, replaced with higher-quality materials and a more refined feel.The new Corvette -- in coupe or convertible body styles -- is a bargain among high-performance cars, delivering ferocious acceleration, precise handling, and excellent braking for thousands of dollars less than competitors such as the 911 and Jaguar F-Type. And the driving experience can be fairly refined or wild, depending on your mood.
Punching the throttle is an eye-opener. The direct-injected 460-hp, 6.2-liter V8 helped it post a blistering 0-to-60-mph acceleration time of 4.3 seconds. From a start, our Stingray shoots forward with seemingly boundless torque and a throaty bark.
Despite its more responsive handling, this is still a wide car that's ultimately more about power than grace; the best place to explore its full potential is on a track. With the driving-mode selector in "Touring," the Vette is a relatively refined cruiser. Ride comfort is tolerable, the steering is light enough for effortless parking, and the restrained exhaust sound lets you tool around without alienating the neighbors.
Dial the selector to "Track" and the steering tightens, the exhaust bellows more intensely, the engine steps up with rev-matching for downshifts, and the stability control loosens its grip, allowing some sideways sliding while still keeping the car on its path. Stability control can be completely switched off, but if you do so you'd better keep your wits about you and have your insurance paid up; going solo without electronic aids can bite you with this car.
"Sport" is an in-between mode that we found suitable for everyday driving.
Braking performance is superb, with the car stopping from 60 mph in a mere 107 feet.
A major improvement in the redesign is the upgraded interior quality. You're treated to comfortable, supportive, and well-tailored seats. The MyLink touch-screen infotainment system lets you access the audio, phone, and navigation functions through simple controls. An optional head-up display can keep you abreast of vitals, such as engine rpm and the gear you're in. And, yes, the instrument panel can display the posted speed limit for the road you're driving on.
The easy-opening rear hatch reveals a modest cargo area that's sufficient for golf clubs or groceries. It's also simple to remove and store the roof panel for some open-air driving.
The Corvette's thrills come with a price, however. The shifter for the seven-speed manual transmission feels somewhat vague, and the clutch is heavy. When loafing along, you're forced into first-to-fourth gear shifts for fuel economy, which is annoying.
Near-acrobatic skills are required to get in and out of the low cabin. Visibility is lousy, especially when parking, although the standard backup camera helps. And on a long haul, the noise reverberating in the cargo area becomes exhausting.
Gripes aside, this is clearly the best Corvette ever, with a satisfying driving experience and an improved cabin.