The Chevrolet Corvette has shattered the 800- and 900-horsepower limits with a projected sub-10-second quarter mile time and a maximum speed that goes beyond 215 mph. Equipped with an exciting twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8, the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 generates an astonishing 1,064 horsepower — an impressive increase of 309 hp compared to the last ZR1 model.

There has been a notable transformation in the automotive world since the previous ZR1 launched five years ago. Nowadays, many cars rely on electric power, and the engine position in Corvettes has shifted behind the driver. Yet, the ZR1 remains true to its supercar roots with a muscle-car spirit. Remarkably, despite boasting four-figure horsepower, we anticipate it to be at least $100,000 less expensive than its European rivals.

Introducing the Chevrolet LT7 Small-Block V-8

Following the lineage of the 638-hp C6 ZR1 and the 755-hp C7 ZR1, the 2025 C8 Corvette ZR1 achieves its remarkable power through advanced engineering of its small-block V-8 engine. “The unique horsepower figures stem from our desire not to predefine a specific target,” stated executive chief engineer Tadge Juechter. “Instead, we aim for the maximum power that technology allows us.”

The LT7 engine in the 2025 Corvette ZR1 utilizes an exceptional combination of engine size, high revs, and turbocharging. Similar to the LT6 in the Corvette Z06, the LT7 features eight forged pistons and a flat-plane crankshaft, which facilitates faster and higher engine speeds while also producing significant side-to-side vibrations. Automotive manufacturers have traditionally limited displacement to below 4.5 liters to control this imbalance, but both Ford and Chevy are now pushing the limits with their new V-8s. At 5.5 liters, this engine is considerably larger for a flat-plane-crank V-8.

Utilizing twin turbochargers instead of a supercharger ensures low inertia, which enhances the engine’s ability to perform at high RPMs. The torque peaks at 828 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm, the max power of 1,064 hp arrives at 7,000 rpm, and it can reach a remarkable redline of 8,000 rpm. After a thrilling and speedy ride in GM’s Milford Proving Grounds in Michigan, the LT7 produced a bold, robust sound that is deeper than your typical flat-plane V-8, leaning more toward a wail than a howl.

The speed sensors on the turbos enable the blowers to rotate faster, with compressor blades reaching speeds up to 1.7 times that of sound. The turbine wheels are composed of Mar, a nickel-based alloy known for its remarkable heat resistance, allowing it to endure temperatures as high as 1,900 degrees Fahrenheit. When fully engaged, the engine operates at 20 psi of boost, forcing so much air through the cylinders that the exhaust from the four tailpipes produces a thrust of 37 pounds.

Juechter emphasizes that the LT7 is not merely a turbocharged version of the Z06’s LT6 engine. The development of both V-8 engines, nicknamed Gemini, commenced together, sharing a block casting. However, Chevy states that the ZR1 features unique internal components, camshafts, and cylinder heads along with improved cooling mechanisms, an additional oil scavenge stage, and a supplementary port fuel-injection system. For in-depth insights into what sets it apart, check our comprehensive analysis of the 2025 Corvette ZR1’s LT7 engine.

Chevy also guarantees substantial low-end power, as the LT7 provides over 800 lb-ft of torque from 3,000 to 6,500 rpm. To manage this tremendous torque, the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission includes reinforced gears, and the rear-wheel bolt pattern has been enlarged from 120 to 130 millimeters (around 5.1 inches). The tires mirror those on the Z06 —either Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP or optional Pilot Sport Cup 2 R ZP in 275/30 ZR20 (97Y) at the front and 345/25 ZR21 (104Y) at the back—but their internal structure has been modified for greater durability against extreme forces.

The Pinnacle of Corvette Performance

With an impressive advantage of 394 horsepower, the 2025 Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1 will significantly outperform the naturally aspirated 670-hp C8 Z06 on a racetrack. However, its purpose extends beyond just racing.

The ZR1 team focused on creating a vehicle that offers superior versatility on the road compared to the Z06, while also measuring itself against the Porsche 911 GT2 RS and Ferrari SF90.

In its default setup, the ZR1 features softer spring rates than the Z06, resulting in a smoother ride. However, opting for the ZTK package stiffens the ride to a level comparable to a Z06 equipped with the Z07 performance package. This upgrade also includes Cup 2 R tires and an aerodynamic kit featuring front dive planes and a substantial rear wing designed to generate over 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed. The base model, equipped with a low-drag, low-downforce aerodynamic setup, boasts the highest top speed, surpassing 215 mph. While Chevy hasn’t confirmed the exact speeds for the ZTK version, achieving 205 mph felt remarkably effortless during our ride-along. Yes, we really hit 205 mph.

All new ZR1s give up front storage space for enhanced engine cooling, yet surprisingly, there’s no fan drawing air across the front heat exchangers. Instead, a vertical wicker mounted on the hood creates a low-pressure zone over the extractor to facilitate airflow. The coupe versions feature new rear glass reminiscent of the classic second-generation split-window Corvette, plus openings punched into the top of the fenders that direct cool air straight to the airboxes. Additional ducts positioned just behind the sizable side vents route air to the rear brakes for both targa and convertible versions.

Interestingly, the ZR1 does not incorporate any active aerodynamic features, which could explain why the formidable Porsche 911 GT3 RS manages to outperform it with a substantial downforce of 1,900 pounds. Additionally, expect the ZR1 to be one of the heavier mid-engine cars available. According to the dry weights provided by Chevy, the lightest coupes are expected to have a curb weight of around 3,950 pounds, while convertibles will likely exceed the two-ton mark. However, based on historical performance, the standard magnetorheological dampers and carbon-ceramic brakes will likely provide a driving experience that distracts you from this weight whenever you get behind the wheel. Carbon-fiber wheels, which reduce weight by 40 pounds, will be available as a standalone option regardless of whether the ZTK package is chosen.

Quick Off the Line

Juechter reveals that the latest ZR1 is so incredibly fast it caught even his engineering team off guard. During its inaugural lap around GM’s Milford Road Course, a C8 ZR1 prototype recorded a faster time than the completed C7 ZR1. “In vehicle development, there’s a progression—you start slow and gradually pick up speed, and you normally don’t reach high speeds until later in the development process,” he noted. “This is the first time I can recall that prototypes were quicker out of the gate than the production version that came before it. Usually, that realization happens at a much later stage.”

A prototype also achieved a quarter-mile time of under 10 seconds on its first attempt at the drag strip. Chevy anticipates that the final version will complete the run in under 9.7 seconds at 150 mph. However, it’s worth noting that the ZR1 may not surpass the Z06 or the hybrid Corvette E-Ray in the 0-60 mph sprint, as its rear-wheel-drive layout limits traction.

Patience is Key

New deliveries of the Corvette ZR1 are slated to begin around the middle of 2025. Chevy clarifies that the early reveal of the car isn’t meant to extend the suspense. Instead, they aim to show the ZR1 now to allow engineers to work on their prototypes without camouflage. “This vehicle, more than any Corvette before, requires final testing without disguise,” Juechter clarifies. “With its advanced aero balance, top performance, and various cooling aspects, it’s essential to conduct thorough evaluations without any camouflage interference. We’ve reached the stage where public disclosure is necessary for testing. We still have significant work ahead.”

This gives us ample time for price speculation. Initially, we estimated a starting price around $180,000. However, after examining the 2019 ZR1, which began at $122,095, we believe the new ZR1 will likely start around $150,000. Even if it ends up costing more, we won’t complain. With its impressive features, anything priced under $200,000 will certainly be seen as a great deal.