We Tested the New LS6-Equipped 2027 Chevy Corvette Range. Here’s Our Top Pick.

      Chevy

      The 2027 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport has officially debuted, alongside its electrified, all-wheel-drive counterpart, the 2027 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport X (farewell E-Ray). Positioned behind the driver-focused cockpit is the automaker’s advanced high-performance V8: the LS6. This new 409-cubic-inch V8 is also set to power the base-model Stingray for the 2027 lineup, giving buyers a wealth of options to find the mid-engine Corvette that best meets their performance and budget requirements.

      The Stingray provides 535 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque, which also carries over to the rear-wheel-drive Grand Sport (the GS includes various handling and aesthetic enhancements; more on that later), while the top-tier Grand Sport X benefits from a permanent magnetic drive motor on the front axle, elevating its output to 721 hp.

      Jerry Perez

      I recently experienced the Grand Sport and Grand Sport X on both the track and the street, though I only drove the base Stingray on public roads. You might assume there wouldn't be substantial differences between these three variants, all utilizing the same engine, but you’d be surprised by how distinct each vehicle's character truly is. This holds true even for the GS and GS X, where, theoretically, the "only" distinction is the active front axle and boosted power.

      Without further delay, here’s your overview of the LS6 and a guide to purchasing a 2027 Chevy Corvette:

      Jerry Perez

      New LS6

      GM was clear right from the start in its press release: “This next-generation V8 produces more torque than any naturally aspirated V8 before it.” This is accurate. Its 520 lb-ft of torque surpasses that of the LT2, which produced 470 lb-ft. Additionally, the new engine features a displacement increase from 6.2 liters in the previous model to 6.7 liters in the new version. Furthermore, horsepower rises significantly by 45, from 490 hp to 535.

      Under the leadership of assistant chief engineer Mike Kociba, who proudly states that “there’s no replacement for displacement,” the new 6.7-liter engine achieves a 13.0:1 compression ratio—the highest ever for a Corvette—allowing for sharper responsiveness, along with a 95-mm throttle body and a tunnel ram intake equipped with high-velocity ports for enhanced airflow. New lubrication systems, forged pistons and rods, and updated exhaust manifolds also ensure durability under prolonged high-load, high-temperature scenarios.

      Jerry Perez, Chevy

      When it comes to delivering power to the wheels, buyers can opt for an eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission, or that’s the only choice available.

      2027 Corvette Stingray: The Everyday ‘Vette

      Though it’s the most affordable option, stepping in and out of the three Corvettes that day, I never felt like I was in a base model. Naturally, depending on selected options and packages, there may be some variances in materials, color choices, and performance—but the Stingray achieves the core Corvette experience effectively.

      Jerry Perez, Chevy

      The Stingray’s V8 generates 535 hp and 520 lb-ft of torque. The test model I drove on public roads near Atlanta Motorsports Park was a 3LT variant with the Z51 performance package, which incorporated new suspension tuning through its optional magnetic ride control. The final drive ratio has been shortened for 2027, enhancing throttle response, while Chevy also claims improved aerodynamic performance, opting for the new Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 as standard tires.

      The LS6 feels right at home in the base model, delivering powerful acceleration, and most importantly, it provides a thrilling soundtrack for your commute or weekend adventure. The engine has a naturally loud character, but Chevy’s tuning of the adjustable driving modes allows it to sound as robust or subdued as you prefer, offering options like a quiet start-up or a relaxed “Tour” mode. Elevate that to Sport or Track, and ear protection might be advisable, especially for longer drives. A side exhaust remains the standard feature, but clients can now select a center-exit option, which indeed alters the sound experience.

      On the road, the Stingray meets nearly every expectation. It accelerates eagerly and delivers impressive performance when called upon. You’ll notice the added power but especially feel the extra torque, which aligns well with the vehicle's dynamics, blending sports car agility with muscle car traits. It remains relatively accommodating at high speeds, unless pushed overly hard. The ride quality in my test vehicle was more than acceptable, which is a relief given the notorious Atlanta traffic.

      2027 Corvette Grand Sport: The Sweet Spot

      Atlanta Motorsports Park presents a challenging track. It’s a true driver’s circuit that tests skills and, crucially, the car's capabilities. Suspension and brake components face rigorous challenges lap after lap due to the circuit's elevation changes and various corner configurations