Grand Sport Returns
After months of speculation, Chevrolet has officially confirmed that the C8 Corvette will receive a Grand Sport trim. The preview took place during the 12 Hours of Sebring, where the new C8 variant was showcased alongside previous Grand Sport models.
As seen in previous spy shots, the new C8 Corvette Grand Sport features the Admiral Blue paint traditionally associated with the trim, along with the signature dual red hash marks. For the first time, however, those accents have been moved from the front to the rear quarter panel – likely reflecting the Corvette’s shift to a mid-engine layout. The full details haven’t been disclosed, but General Motors did confirm that the vehicle is getting a new V8.
A Bigger V8 Could Be Coming
Based on earlier rumors, the new trim could receive a new naturally aspirated small-block V8 bearing the LS6 designation, a name historically associated with high-performance engine variants. The engine could feature a 6.7-liter displacement, making it larger than the base Corvette Stingray’s naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT2 V8.
Given that the Grand Sport is expected to slot above the Stingray, it will likely produce more than the base model’s 495 horsepower. It is also expected to retain a rear-wheel-drive layout, unlike the all-wheel-drive system used in the Corvette E-Ray.
Speaking of the Corvette E-Ray, reports suggest Chevrolet may rename the hybrid trim the Grand Sport X. The current E-Ray badge appears to cause some confusion, as some buyers assume the “E” means the car is fully electric, which could potentially affect buyer perception. Adopting the Grand Sport name would give the model a more familiar badge.
Expanding the Lineup
The upcoming Corvette Grand Sport could emerge as a volume leader, serving as a “sweet spot” between the base Stingray and the more track-focused Z06. Above it sit more extreme variants like the ZR1 and ZR1X, with the latter featuring an AWD system and a hybrid setup producing a combined 1,250 horsepower.
Chevrolet will officially reveal the C8 Corvette Grand Sport on March 26.
The 12 Hours of Sebring, where the new Corvette trim was previewed, is the second race of the 2026 IMSA SportsCar Championship season. The Grand Sport models from various generations hit the track for a parade lap before the race began on Saturday.
About the author
Rex Sanchez
News Editor