Back in March, we provided an exclusive look at how Chevrolet’s engineers meticulously tuned, tweaked, and sculpted the eighth-generation Corvette into a jaw-dropping 233-mph missile, the 1,064-horsepower ZR1. As an avid racing simulator enthusiast, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of driving a real car on a real track. This past week, I had the exhilarating opportunity to do just that at the renowned Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas. Known for hosting the Formula One United States Grand Prix since 2012, COTA boasts three and a half miles of winding asphalt, providing the perfect setting to test the ZR1’s handling and performance.
The Circuit of the Americas is an ideal venue for evaluating the ZR1’s downforce, a critical aspect that played a key role in its record-setting 233-mph run. Increased downforce translates to enhanced grip, a feature that typically comes with the trade-off of increased aerodynamic drag. To address this, Chevrolet offers two distinct versions of the ZR1. The base model features a modest rear spoiler, while the ZTK trim is equipped with the Carbon Fiber Aero Package, which includes a massive rear wing and various aerodynamic enhancements. Although the ZTK version sacrifices a fraction of top speed, it compensates with an astounding 1,200 pounds of downforce.
To maintain aerodynamic balance, the ZR1 replaces the frunk found in standard Corvette models with a strategically placed scoop at the front. This innovative design directs air upward through the hood and over the windshield, ensuring the nose remains grounded at high speeds, ultimately allowing for rapid acceleration.
Before unleashing the full power of the ZR1, I took a single familiarization lap around COTA in the ZTK-equipped version. This initial lap was crucial for warming up both the tires and myself. On the subsequent lap, I reached an impressive 175 mph on COTA’s back straight, experiencing over 1.5 Gs of deceleration during braking—figures that reflect world-class performance. The sensation of such intense braking is akin to being flipped upside down, while cornering forces are just as exhilarating. Navigating the series of right-hand turns towards the end of the lap truly tests your endurance in the ZR1, pulling over 1.3 G in the corners and providing a rigorous workout for your neck.
All of these performance figures were verified using the in-car Performance Data Recorder, which captures high-definition footage of your track experience while overlaying essential telemetry data for later analysis, just like the professionals use.
The telemetry data and my personal experience behind the wheel confirm that the ZR1 delivers a level of performance that is unparalleled in the Corvette lineup. Despite its incredible capabilities, the ZR1 remains approachable and user-friendly. It took only one lap for me to feel comfortable diving into corners, routinely pushing past the tires’ limits and recovering smoothly to prepare for the next turn without excessive drama. The advanced traction, stability, and ABS systems play a significant role in this ease of handling. Far from being mere distractions, these systems enhance performance, only making their presence known through the occasional blinking light on the dashboard.
Even with these electronic aids activated, I found that I could still initiate a controlled slide when exiting slower turns, launching down the straights with confidence.
However, there is one notable disappointment regarding the new ZR1: it is set to debut as a 2025 model, which means it will come equipped with Corvette’s previous interior design. This includes the less-than-ideal row of buttons that awkwardly divides the cabin space. The 2026 Corvette models will feature a thoroughly revamped interior layout, complete with a modern triple-screen setup. While the ZR1 will eventually receive this upgraded interior, it won’t be available until the 2026 models are released later this year.
For those interested in purchasing a ZR1, the starting price is set at $174,995. However, considering the expected enhancements in the interior for the second model year, it may be wise to wait until the 2026 Corvette becomes available, even if the temptation to own a ZR1 is hard to resist.
