The new 2025 Corvette ZR1 is powered by a 5.5L twin-turbo DOHC flat-plane crank V8 engine called the LT7. It’s the most powerful V8 engine ever produced in America with 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,00 RPM per SAE guidelines. GM test drivers easily surpassed 200 MPH in testing on the Nürburgring, and it clocked a faster time around the Milford Proving Ground’s MRC test track than the C7 ZR1. With a new redline set at 8,000 RPM, the new ZR1 boasts a GM-estimated top speed of over 215 MPH
The twin turbo chargers on the ZR1 are massive at 76 mm and according to Chevy engineers, they were integrated into the exhaust manifold to reduce the volume and distance from the exhaust valve to the turbine wheel. Engineers also worked on what they call “intelligent anti-lag engine calibrations” specifically designed for the ZR1 which adapts and reacts to your driving style.
GM also needed to make numerous changes to the ZR1’s eight-speed dual-clutch transmission to handle the dramatic increase in power that includes better oil management and increased control valves to accommodate the higher required clutch clamp load for the LT7.
s for stopping power, the Corvette ZR1 will employ the largest carbon ceramic brakes ever equipped on a Corvette with the front rotors measuring 15.7 inches (400mm) and rears are 15.4 inches (390mm). In the press release, GM says that the Corvette ZR1 goes from 80-200 MPH and back to 80 MPH in just 24.5 seconds. That’s 22% quicker than the C7 Corvette ZR1
Additional Corvette ZR1 design changes include:
A carbon fiber roof to reduce mass and lower the center of gravity for both coupe and convertible.
Unique aluminum wheel design available in four finishes, including Edge Blue — an homage to ZR1’s signature color cue.
Optional new carbon-fiber wheel design, exclusive to ZR1, to further reduce mass.
LT7 engine intake finished in Edge Blue — delivering an engine that looks as good as it performs.
Inside the cockpit of the ZR1 are several ZR1 badges found on the steering wheel, plaque, and sill plates. A boost gauge has also been added to the first factory turbocharged Corvette.
We already know about the three new colors for the 2025 model year and Chevy was gracious to share the first photos of the Corvette ZR1 Coupe and Convertible wearing the new exteriors of Competition Yellow and Hysteria Purple Metallic. In addition, there is a new Habanero (orange) interior, as well as a Blue Stitch option.
