​​Chevrolet Reveals 2027 Corvette Grand Sport at 12 Hours of Sebring​

 Over the weekend of March 19-21, the 74th running of the 12 Hours of Sebring concluded with a 1-2 sweep by Porsche Penske Motorsport. While the finish was a proud moment for Roger Penske, the race’s start was probably also memorable for him. He saw the blue-and-white 1962 C2 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport, once driven by him and Jim Hall in an identical car, which they took the 1-2 positions in the 1964 race. The vintage race car was accompanied in its parade lap by C4, C6, C7, and Grand Sport production models, and for the first time in public, a C8 Grand Sport model, all in Admiral Blue with a center white stripe. The new Grand Sport will bring another exciting model to the Corvette lineup, and Twin Falls Chevrolet shares what we know about it so far.  

The ZR1 and ZR1X will remain the fastest Corvettes in the lineup, but what the Grand Sport is said to offer is the purest sports car experience. Key to this is the new LS6 engine. The most surprising aspect of this engine might be its increase in size from 6.2 liters to 6.7 liters through a longer stroke. Car enthusiasts quickly recognized that this translates to 409 cubic inches, reminiscent of an earlier GM V8 immortalized by the Beach Boys in a song (‘She’s real fine, my 409…’).

Still, the song’s engine could never hope to produce 535 horsepower and 520 lb.-ft of torque. There is no turbo or supercharger, granting the driver direct control over its output. However, it has a 13.0:1 compression ratio, which is the highest ever for a Corvette. The engine also includes an intake manifold with a 95 mm throttle body, which is 9% larger than in the current Stingray engine. A continuously variable oil pump maintains optimal oil pressure under all conditions. Along with improvements in the lubrication system and forged pistons and rods, the LS6 is upgraded for better overall lower-end durability and peak performance in any driving situation.

“There is no replacement for displacement! Our next-generation LS6 V8 engine combines large displacement, modern technology, and proven Small Block V8 heritage to deliver a bold new chapter in performance.” – Mike Kociba, Corvette Assistant Chief Engineer.

The engine is paired with a dual-clutch 8-speed transmission that sends all power to the rear wheels. The model will be available as both a coupe and a convertible, and there will also be a Grand Sport X with a front-mounted 145 lb-ft motor for all-wheel drive and a combined 721 horsepower.

The Grand Sport models will feature the wide version of the Corvette body. The model will certainly be available in Admiral Blue with a white center stripe and two red hashmarks on the rear fenders. All previous production Grand Sports had red hashmarks on the front, but now the engine is positioned near the rear fenders.  But this is not a limited edition model. There will be ten exterior colors, each with a corresponding set of stripes and hash marks. It will also be available with an exclusive set of 20-inch front and 21-inch rear split five-spoke wheels, with a choice of four different finishes. There are also 13 different interior color and material combinations.

Further tailoring the Grand Sport to your desires are three different performance packages, featuring various brake, tire, aerodynamic, and other upgrades.

“The Grand Sport Lineup presents the Corvette people have been waiting for. It combines aggressive styling and incredible handling performance with the most powerful standard engine ever offered in a Corvette.”   – Josh Holder, Corvette Chief Engineer.

The Corvette Grand Sport is anticipated to arrive with the 2027 model year. If you’re interested, let one of the sales professionals at  Twin Falls Chevrolet know so they can keep you updated on additional model details. One might imagine Roger Penske will be first in line.