Sixth generation Corvette C6

Power train

Power train configurations of the sixth-generation Corvette are expanded with an electronically controlled six-speed Paddle Shift automatic transmission, which helps delivering exciting acceleration performance. The existing Corvette transmissions remain available: the manual Tremec T56 six-speed transmission with standard Z51 Performance Package or optional F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control. All transmissions are linked to the LS2 6.0-liter small-block V-8 engine.

The LS2 6.0-liter small-block V-8 is based on GM’s Gen IV small-block family of engines and raised the bar for performance in the Corvette. With peak output levels of 297 kW (404 horsepower) and 546 Nm of torque, it has 60 horsepower more than the previous model.

An aluminium block casting incorporates provisions for external knock sensors and revised oil galleries to improve serviceability. The cylinder bore diameter increased to 101.6 mm, increasing displacement from 5.7 to 6.0 liters and the camshaft lift increased to take advantage of increased cylinder head flow, while the engine’s compression ratio is raised to 10.9:1 and the ‘redline’ raised to 6500 rpm.

Transmissions

The Corvette uses an upgraded and revised Tremec T56 six-speed transmission, which is offered with revised gearing with the Z51 Performance Package. To increase durability in sustained high-speed situations a transmission cooler is fitted. The Tremec six-speed manual features improved shifting characteristics thanks to numerous upgrades, including synchronizers that reduce travel by 10 percent, and a redesigned shift lever.

The Tremec transmission is available with two sets of ratios. The more aggressive gear set is reserved for Corvette’s standard Z51 Performance Package and is tailored with numerically higher gears to improve acceleration.

New six-speed Paddle Shift automatic transmission

The new electronically controlled six-speed Paddle Shift automatic transmission features clutch to clutch operation, manual control shift operation and an integrated 32-bit electronic controller. A wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio helps deliver exciting acceleration performance along with excellent fuel economy. Configured with the new six-speed automatic transmission the Corvette is capable of reaching a top speed of 300 km/h and 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 4.8 seconds.

The six forward gears have smaller ‘steps’ between them, which enhances the feeling of performance and smoothness. The smaller steps also enable a steep, 4.02:1 first gear, which provides an improved-performance launch feel when compared with the previous four-speed automatic’s 3.06:1 first gear. There are two overdrive gears: a 0.85:1 ratio in fifth gear and a 0.67:1 ratio in sixth. The final drive ratio of Corvette models equipped with the new transmission is 2.56:1.

Technological sophistication is exemplified by two electronically controlled automatic modes, Drive and Sport; plus manual Paddle Shift. The Drive mode follows a specific shift schedule of predetermined shift points, while the Sport mode enables Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS). PAS modifies shift patterns when performance driving is recognized by the controller. The Drive mode optimizes shifts for smoothness, while the Sport mode enables firmer shifts for better performance. With the Paddle Shift mode, gear changes are made with manual control paddles located on the steering wheel.

The performance and functions of the six-speed Paddle Shift transmission with automatic modes are guided by an integrated controller. The controller is located inside the transmission, reducing complexity. A new 300 mm torque converter, new rear bell housing, new driveline support and revised-length driveshaft also support the transmission’s integration into the Corvette.

The optional F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magneto-rheological dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control. The system has been improved to deliver more differentiation between the system’s ‘Tour’ and ’Sport’ settings.

Fuel economy

With a fuel economy figure of 11.7 liters per 100 kms (combined urban/extra-urban, Tremec T56 6-speed manual with optional F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control) the Corvette is capable of combining performance with economy. With its current fuel consumption figures the Corvette is excluded of the so-called ‘gas guzzler tax’, which is charged in the US for certain cars with high fuel consumption, whereas most of its direct competitors are included for tax amounts up to 3,700 US dollars.

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