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The C8 Chevrolet Corvette (2020 to present) took the traditional front-engine application of the model and added mid-engine balance and dual-clutch transmission speed. However, in doing so, America’s original performance namesake dropped a beloved feature: the manual transmission. So, which transmission options are currently available on the C8 Corvette?

What kind of transmission does a C8 Corvette have?

A TREMEC TR-9080 dual-clutch transmission shows off its inner-workings.
TREMEC TR-9080 | TREMEC

The only transmission option for the eighth-generation Chevrolet Corvette (C8) is an eight-speed TR-9080 dual-clutch transmission (DCT), a first for the Stingray. While the DCT might not be as old-school grab-a-gear as a traditional manual, it is swift and compliant. 

For instance, the eight-speed DCT will shift quicker than a competent manual driver, allowing the sure-footed mid-engine Stingray to hit 60 mph in as little as 2.8 seconds with the Z51 Package. That puts the eighth-gen Corvette a full second ahead of the C7 Stingray Z51 in the sprint to 60. Of course, purists will tout the availability of a seven-speed (yes, seven) manual gearbox in the C7.  

Who builds Corvette transmissions?

The C8 Corvette’s TR-9080 dual-clutch transmission is a product of TREMEC, a company with a long history of building performance gearboxes. For instance, TREMEC made the notchy, eager transmission in the S550 Shelby GT350 as well as the T56, a favorite manual among hot-rodders. 

Moreover, the TREMEC TR-9080 is the exclusive transmission option for the eighth-generation Chevrolet Corvette, not unlike the TR-3160 in the Shelby GT350. Still, the DCT provides quick shifts without as much possibility of operator error, unlike the stout gearbox in the Shelby. 

Can you still get a Corvette with a manual transmission?

Unfortunately, you can’t get a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray or Z06 with a three-pedal manual transmission application. Instead, the Stingray packs the TR-9080 as its sole option, and the Z06 channels its 670 ponies through a revised version of the same dual-clutch transmission. 

That means Corvette enthusiasts who want a manual will have to opt for a previous generation. Fortunately, every previous generation offers old-school three-pedal platforms, from the first-gen models to the fire-breathing C7 ZR1.  

Does the C8 Corvette have transmission problems?

A 2023 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray shows off its handling by taking a corner on a track.
A C8 Corvette on the track | General Motors

Aside from being the only transmission option, the TREMEC TR-9080 might also exhibit some issues for owners. According to GM Authority, some C8 Corvette owners experienced gasket failures, error messages, and a voluntary recall for a faulty transmission control module (TCM). 

Unfortunately, there’s a method to the GM madness that eliminated the row-your-own setup from the Corvette’s lineup. After all the buzz and protest, sales figures showed that ‘Vette owners skew automatic.

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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).