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2024 is here, and with it, the fifth model year of the mid-engine Corvette. However, even with a hybrid model in the lineup above it, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray omits two features that would surely summon smiles from the nameplate’s faithful: adaptive cruise control and a manual transmission. 

The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette enters its fifth model year without a stick shift

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve likely heard that the eighth-generation Chevrolet Corvette (C8) is automatic-only. It’s true; since 2020, the only transmission option for the Stingray has been the TREMEC TR-9080 DCT.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though. TREMEC’s TR-9080 dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is quick. Quicker than the most composed stick shift jockey could row through the gears. Even the previous generation’s seven-speed manual transmission (yes, seven speeds) is hopeless to keep pace with the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray’s shifts. 

The result? A Z51-equipped Corvette Stingray will hit 60 mph in under 3.0 seconds. However, critics of the “Plastic Fantastic” won’t digress from their transmission complaints. Sure, there are YouTubers who surgically installed a stick shift and third pedal in a C8 Corvette. However, you won’t be taking delivery of a three-pedal Corvette from Bowling Green anytime soon. 

A blue Chevrolet Corvette Stingray on the highway.
2024 Chevrolet Corvette | General Motors

Drivers would likely love longer trips with a smart cruise control system

In addition to the missing stick in the middle, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray goes without adaptive cruise control. While the omission isn’t a deal breaker for performance car shoppers, it’s a feature that could make the Corvette a much more compliant GT car. 

Adaptive cruise control adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance. As a result, a vehicle with adaptive cruise control will allow a driver to confidently relax their feet and cover serious highway mileage.

Again, not a glaring oversight. However, the 2024 Ford Mustang, a much cheaper American performance car, offers the Ford CoPilot360 suite with adaptive cruise control.

Of course, Chevrolet couldn’t leave the lineup alone for 2024. General Motors unveiled a Corvette first this year: the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray. The E-Ray is a 655-horsepower hybrid ‘Vette with all-wheel drive (AWD). It’s quite the departure from the classic front-engine, rear-wheel drive (RWD) C7 platform from just six years prior.

Source: Chevrolet

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).