For the last eon, all we’ve seen of the upcoming C8 Corvette is a camouflaged test car tearing up the streets and tracks across the country. We’ve waited and waited for the new Corvette to break cover and expose itself to the world. Now, the wait is finally over. Introducing the all-new 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.

This is the first mid-engine Corvette ever created. Concepts have been built over the years, but not until now has the iconic supercar been transformed like this. It looks like nothing else that came before, yet the look is distinctly Corvette. Styling cues include low profile headlamps with all-new projectors, dual-element taillights with animated turn signals, and hidden door, hood, and hatch releases. And just behind the doors are large side intakes that help cool down the engine. They’re not just eye-catching, they also aid with aerodynamics.

“Corvette has always represented the pinnacle of innovation and boundary-pushing at GM. The traditional front-engine vehicle reached its limits of performance, necessitating the new layout,” said GM President Mark Reuss. “In terms of comfort and fun, it still looks and feels like a Corvette, but drives better than any vehicle in Corvette history. Customers are going to be thrilled with our focus on details and performance across the board.”

The heart of the next generation Corvette Stingray is a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT2 V8 with 495 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed dual clutch transmission designed by TREMEC. This combination, in conjunction with the Z51 Performance Package, can propel the new Corvette Stingray from 0 to 60 in under three seconds. That makes the 2020 Corvette Stingray the fastest entry Corvette ever.

“Though now placed behind the driver, the LT2 gives the same visceral experience we all expect from Corvette,” said Jordan Lee, GM’s global chief engineer of Small Block engines. “The LT2 has been designed to deliver excellent low-end torque and high-end power to give thrilling pedal response at any RPM.”

The interior is one of the most customizable we’ve seen in a Corvette. There are three different seat options. The GT1 emphasizes comfort and good support for performance driving. GT2 seats look racier and feature carbon fiber trim, Napa leather inserts, Mulan bolsters, and two-way lumbar support. Competition Sport is for the track-oriented driver and comes with aggressive bolstering, full Napa seating surfaces, and carbon fiber trim. Six interior color themes, six seat belt colors, and two optional stitch packages allow drivers to further customize the driving experience.

To say the 2020 Corvette Stingray is all-new is an understatement. This car has been reimagined from the ground up. Pricing for the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will start just under $60,000. Production will start late this year.

Photo credit: media.chevrolet.com