ZR1. ZR1. ZR1. The fastest and most powerful car GM has ever built becomes available for public consumption in 2009.
For the 2009 model year, the iconic sports car receives styling adjustments, convenience features, and the introduction of a lower-priced Corvette convertible.
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All 2009 Corvettes receive two additional color options: cyber gray metallic and blade silver metallic. Machine silver metallic is discontinued. Bluetooth capability is now included on the options list and steering-wheel audio controls are standard across the board. A base 1LT package is available for the convertible, dropping the introductory price to $51,700, or $3725 less than 2008 2LT variants. Not content with being undercut, the 2LT option now includes a power-operated top.
The base six-speed Corvette is the most fuel efficient at 16/26 miles per gallon city/highway. Opt for the auto and mileage falls by one on both ends. The all-aluminum mill in the Z06 drops economy to 15/24, and the ZR1 pays the price for the supercharger with fuel mileage at 14/20. Still it betters Ferrari’s F430, a relative polluter at 11/16.
No major changes to the Corvette lineup means loyalists will be more than satisfied. The styling adjustments and convenience features are sure to make the sports car more welcoming, and a lower-priced convertible doesn’t hurt, either. Then, of course, there’s the ZR1. Say the name all you want, it never gets tiring. ZR1. ZR1. ZR1.
2009 Corvette: Enhancements Bring More Choices, Refinement To Chevy’s Legendary Sports Car
After a milestone year in 2008 that saw the introduction of the LS3 6.2L V-8 as the new standard engine, a custom, leather-wrapped interior and more upgrades, the Corvette powers into 2009 with a raft of enhancements that further distinguish it and give customers more choices - including a lower-priced convertible model.
Of course, that range of choices also includes the ZR1, with its 6.2L supercharged engine that produces 638 horsepower (476 kW). (Please see the separate Corvette ZR1 release for complete information on Chevy’s world-class supercar.)
“The Corvette is an American icon with world-class credentials,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “It’s the car we all aspire to own and the 2009 edition, with more choices and features, only amplifies that craving.”
