2027 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport X proves code is as important as hardware

The electric motor at the front in the ZR1X is more powerful than that found in the E-Ray, and the Grand Sport X inherits that power boost. Out back, though, is something even newer: the LS6, a 6.7 L naturally aspirated V8 that will become the base engine in new Stingray models. This continues the Grand Sport tradition of sticking with the entry-level engine while borrowing all the performance-minded upgrades from elsewhere in the Corvette line. That includes carbon-ceramic brakes, standard Magnetic Ride Control suspension, and even optional carbon fiber wheels, all wrapped by the widebody shape that gives the Grand Sport and Grand Sport X a more aggressive look than the base Stingray. The result is a car that’s up 66 hp (49 kW) and 70 lb-ft (95 Nm) of torque over the outgoing E-Ray. But despite that extra eagerness, the Grand Sport X hasn’t sacrificed its everyday appeal. The adaptive dampers still do a fairly good job of smoothing out the ride on Colorado’s concrete highways, and the Corvette’s other charms remain intact. Being able to lose the roof and stow it in the trunk is one of my favorite parts of every modern Corvette, and that’s still true here. What’s new, though, is the interior that’s exposed when you eject the roof. Gone is the wall of buttons between driver and passenger. The new layout has a 12.7-inch touchscreen and a more open center console that makes room for a wireless charging pad, though it sadly didn’t work so well in my testing.