We were impressed with the new-generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray during our time behind the wheel last year. We simply couldn’t remember a vehicle that delivered so many things so well. Our opinion didn’t change after a fun-filled week in a 2016 Corvette convertible. The bottom line—you don’t have to sacrifice one iota of performance and handling with the droptop.
The Stingray’s top is fully electronic and can be lowered remotely using the key fob. And it can be opened or closed on the go, at speeds of up to 30 mph—a great feature as raindrops start pelting your head. Just as impressive, it can be raised or lowered in just 21 seconds. And with the top up, the car is designed for a refined driving experience. The top is a thick fabric with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window contributing to a quiet cabin.
And you will discover that the convertible loses absolutely nothing in performance compared to the hardtop model. It’s in the driving that truly makes the newest Corvette shine. The heart and soul of the beast is the upgraded 6.2 L V8 making 455 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The new engine gains direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. Power gains were made over the outgoing car by adding about 50 lb-ft of torque below 4,000 rpm. For even more grunt, the optional dual-mode exhaust provides a slight power boost to 460 horses and 465 lb-ft of torque.
And to give the engine more efficient use of the power band, the 2016 Vette is now equipped with GM’s all-new 8-speed paddle-shift automatic. A 7-speed manual with active rev matching continues to be the standard transmission. That’s the transmission that came with our test car and we found it a joy to drive.
