2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1: Best look yet at twin-turbo track special

The fastest and most capable variant of the mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette to date – the ZR1 – has been photographed testing in Europe ahead of its launch next year or in 2025.

The ZR1 will rise to the top of the Corvette line-up, and like its predecessors is set to match race-track-honed aerodynamics with more power than any other model in the range.

It is unclear if it will be manufactured in right-hand drive – as with the three previous variants in the new Chevrolet Corvette range: the regular Stingray, high-performance Z06 and hybrid E-Ray.

It has been spied previously in heavy disguise in the US, however the latest photos show it in a light camouflage wrap for high-speed performance testing on Germany’s Nurburgring race circuit.

It appears similar to the existing Z06 at first – with near-identical front and rear bumpers, and the same four central exhaust outlets – however it gains a number of more aggressive aerodynamic enhancements, including a larger fixed rear spoiler.

There are additional vents in the rear wheel arches and decklid, unique multi-spoke wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tyres, and a new front ‘bonnet’ with a large air duct – channelling air from the front bumper over the car, at the cost of the front storage area.

Two versions were spotted: one on public roads with the Z06’s rear spoiler, and one on the race track with a larger spoiler.

US reports claim the ZR1 will be the most powerful production Corvette ever sold – with more than 630kW (850 horsepower) – and the first factory-built turbocharged V8 Corvette, after 15 years of supercharged V8 flagship editions.

It is said to come from a twin-turbo version of the Z06’s 5.5-litre V8, which is reportedly planned to drop the Z06’s flat-plane crank for a more conventional cross-plane crank design.

Power will reportedly remain sent to the rear wheels only.

Reports out of the US claim the ZR1 will be followed by an even more powerful Zora model, combining the ZR1's twin-turbo V8 with the E-Ray's hybrid technology and all-wheel-drive system, for more than 1000 horsepower (745kW).

It would borrow its name from early Corvette chief engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov – often referred to as the "Father of the Corvette".