Ten years ago, spy shots of a mysterious mid-engine prototype based on a Holden Commodore ute shook the internet. Those grainy photos marked the beginning of a new era for the Chevrolet Corvette. That prototype would eventually become the groundbreaking C8 generation. Fast forward to 2025, and we finally get to drive the latest iteration: the 2025 Corvette Stingray Convertible.
With its mid-engine layout, striking design, and high-revving naturally aspirated V8, the C8 Stingray isn’t just good — it’s astonishing. In a market saturated with turbocharged and hybrid performance machines, the Corvette remains delightfully old-school in the best ways possible.
Quick Overview: 2025 Corvette Stingray Convertible
- Model: Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Z51 Convertible (3LT)
- Starting Price (AU): AU$214,500 (~US$134,000)
- Engine: 6.2L naturally aspirated V8
- Output: 495 hp / 470 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
- 0-100 km/h: ~3.5 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 13.5 L/100km (17.4 mpg US) combined
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
- Curb Weight: 1,705 kg (3,758 lbs)
- On Sale: Available now
A Global Performance Bargain
While the 2025 Corvette Stingray starts at just $68,300 in the U.S., the Australian market sees a steeper price due to taxes and import fees. Still, even at AU$214,500 for the 3LT Convertible with Z51 Performance Package, it stands toe-to-toe with far more expensive European rivals.
Direct competition is scarce. The Jaguar F-Type R and Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe are no longer in production, and the Nissan GT-R has also exited the Australian market. Closest rivals now include the BMW M4 Competition and Porsche Cayman GTS 4.0, both hovering around the AU$200,000 mark.
Power and Precision
Under the rear decklid lies the heart of the Stingray: a naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 producing 495 horsepower and 637 Nm of torque. It’s mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission driving the rear wheels, ensuring rapid gear changes and continuous power delivery.
All Australian-spec Stingrays come standard with the Z51 Performance Package, which adds serious hardware:
- Magnetic Ride Control 4.0
- Performance exhaust system
- Brembo brakes
- Electronic limited-slip differential
- Front splitter and rear spoiler
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires
- Additional cooling systems
Optional forged wheels (19-inch front, 20-inch rear) added another AU$4,940 to our tester’s sticker.
Inside the Cockpit
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a truly driver-focused cabin. The distinctive row of climate control buttons dividing driver and passenger is odd at first but becomes second nature. The flat-top, flat-bottom steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara feels thick and precise in hand.
Our 3LT model came with a two-tone leather interior in black and light tan. The materials felt premium, although the plastic paddle shifters could use an upgrade. Standard features include:
- 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Fully digital instrument cluster with multiple themes
- 14-speaker Bose audio system
- Electrically adjustable GT2 sport seats
At 6’2″, I found headroom slightly tight with the seat in its lowest position, but a few minor adjustments solved the issue.
V8 Thrills and Daily Usability
Driving the Stingray is an experience that stirs the senses. The V8 delivers a visceral bark on startup, with a deep, rumbling soundtrack that intensifies as you climb toward its 6,500 rpm redline.
This isn’t just a brute, though. The Stingray can be surprisingly civil. On highway cruises, it often switches to four-cylinder mode for better efficiency. We managed 7.5 L/100km on a long trip — better than many SUVs. Around town and during spirited driving, that figure jumped to 16.5 L/100km.
The dual-clutch gearbox shines at speed, though it can feel a touch jerky at low speeds. Manual mode is addictive, especially in Z-Mode where every upshift is punctuated with a satisfying crack from the exhaust.
Real-world acceleration times hovered around 3.5 to 3.7 seconds to 100 km/h. That’s just behind the M4 Competition and still firmly in supercar territory.
Handling with Grace
Thanks to near-perfect balance and the Z51 package, the Corvette corners with confidence. Grip from the Michelin tires is immense, and the Magnetic Ride suspension adjusts in real-time to road conditions.
Some testers report front-end understeer at the limit, but we didn’t experience this during our spirited mountain road drives. For street use, the C8 handles as if it’s glued to the pavement.
Ride quality is superb for a sports car. Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 allows for a surprisingly comfortable drive in Tour mode, while still stiffening things up in Track or Z-Mode. Add in the nose-lift system — which stores up to 1,000 GPS locations — and daily usability gets even better.
Drive modes include:
- Tour
- Weather
- Sport
- Track
- My Mode (customizable)
- Z-Mode (performance-focused custom setup)
We preferred Z-Mode with aggressive engine/transmission settings and a softened suspension for the best balance.
Surprising Practicality
The C8 is more than just a pretty face. With both a frunk and a rear trunk, it offers real-world practicality. You can actually carry two golf bags or luggage for a weekend away — something few mid-engine sports cars can claim.
The convertible top opens and closes in seconds at speeds up to 48 km/h. We did experience a few glitches with the mechanism requiring a stop and reset, but otherwise, it worked well. If this bothers you, the removable roof panel on the Coupe might be a better fit.
A small rear window can also be lowered independently, letting you enjoy the V8’s roar even with the top up.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Corvette Stingray Convertible proves that Chevrolet has mastered the mid-engine formula. It delivers a supercar experience for a fraction of the cost and doesn’t sacrifice comfort or usability along the way.
In the U.S., it remains the best value in performance cars. In Australia, it’s more expensive but still delivers unmatched presence and performance compared to rivals like the M4 or Cayman.
For enthusiasts craving drama, speed, and daily drivability, the C8 Stingray Convertible is still the American sports car to beat.
Pros:
- Thrilling V8 performance
- Everyday comfort and usability
- Unique design and road presence
- Excellent value in the U.S. market
Cons:
- Pricey in international markets
- Roof mechanism can be temperamental
- Some cabin materials could feel more premium
Verdict: If you’re looking for an exotic experience with American muscle roots, the 2025 Corvette Stingray Convertible is still the one to get.
