Even as Chevrolet updated the C8 Corvette for 2022, fans were clamoring for the Z06 version. Chevrolet has been teasing the high-performance ‘Vette for some time, and the trickle of spy shots and engine sounds has only made the want stronger. And the recently spotted E-Ray prototypes haven’t helped, either. But Chevy has thrown its fans a bone as the C8 Corvette Z06’s official reveal draws close: an uncamouflaged Z06.

The 2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 takes off its camouflage and shows off its aero package

Since its introduction in the C5 Corvette, the Z06 trim has been arguably the best ‘Vette variant for track day duties. It’s little wonder, then, that the upcoming C8 Z06 has been repeatedly spotted testing at tracks like the Nürburgring. However, every time the 2023 Corvette Z06 has been spotted in the wild, it’s been heavily camouflaged. Therefore, it’s been difficult to determine what it brings to the mid-engine Corvette formula.

But now, at least some of that speculation can end, because Chevrolet released an undisguised image of the 2023 Corvette Z06 on Instagram. Chevrolet officially says it’s a “pre-production model,” and its Instagram post also includes footage of another camouflaged Z06 on a racetrack. However, the Instagram post also refers to the undisguised image as “the real thing.” So, at the very least, this is what the “standard Z06” looks like, Car and Driver says.

And what it looks like is fairly similar to the standard C8 Chevy Corvette. There are a few key differences, though. The Z06 has new side air intakes, as well as different mirrors, doors, bumpers, and front intakes, MotorTrend notes. Its wheels also appear to be different, and it has a redesigned front splitter. Plus, its rear wing is more pronounced than the standard C8’s wing.

Speaking of that rear wing, it’s less aggressive than the ones some of the camouflaged Corvette Z06 mules used. And comparing the undisguised Z06 to the camouflaged one in the Instagram post, the latter’s wing is significantly larger. However, that’s likely because the C8 Corvette Z06 will offer an even more track-focused Z07 Performance package, Car and Driver muses. That’s consistent with past Z06 models, C7 included.

What we know so far about the rest of the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

It’s worth noting that Chevrolet hasn’t released any other official details about the 2023 Corvette Z06. It has, however, released teasers of the mid-engine supercar shrieking around the track. And that audio seemingly solidifies a few floating Z06 rumors, Roadshow says.

Although not official, it’s essentially an open secret that the upcoming Z06 uses a flat-plane-crank V8. More specifically, a modified version of the Corvette C8.R race car’s 5.5-liter V8. And while we don’t know the official specs yet, Car and Driver claims it makes over 600 hp and revs to 8500-9000 RPM. It should also come with a beefed-up version of the C8 Corvette’s eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.

In addition, the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 likely has additional exterior tweaks, such as a new rear diffuser and exhaust pipes, Roadshow reports. And seeing as it’s a track-focused car, it probably has upgraded brakes, too. Also, if past Z07 packages are anything to go by, the C8 version will likely offer carbon-ceramic brakes, stiffer suspension, lighter wheels, and grippier tires, Car and Driver says.

The official reveal is coming up fast

Although full technical details are still thin on the ground, they won’t be for long. Chevrolet will officially reveal the 2023 Corvette Z06 on October 26^th, 2021. Then, we’ll know not just what kind of engine it has, but what other performance features lie under its skin.

But by shedding its camouflaged skin, the Z06 has at least given fans another quick taste of what’s coming.

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