The C8 Chevy Corvette debuts several key updates for the 2026 model year, with the new hybrid-powered Corvette ZR1X leading the charge with 1,250 horsepower. However, diving a bit deeper, we find that GM has also adjusted pricing details across the C8 Corvette lineup, bumping up the MSRP figures for the Stingray, E-Ray, Z06, and ZR1. In addition, several of the 2026 Corvette performance packages get a pricing increase as well.
Starting with the Corvette Stingray, the Z51 Performance Package (RPO code Z51) is once again priced at $6,345, the same as the preceding model year. Pricing for the E-Ray’s ZER Performance Package (RPO code ZER) is also unchanged, once again offered for an additional $500.
That all said, pricing for the Z06 and ZR1 performance packages is now more expensive for the 2026 Corvette. The 2026 Corvette Z06 now offers the optional carbon ceramic brakes (RPO code J57) for $9,000, up from $8,495. Meanwhile, the Z07 Performance Package (RPO code Z07), which adds advanced aerodynamics and other track upgrades, jumps from $8,995 to $9,500.
The most substantial price shift affects the newly introduced ZTK Track Performance Package (RPO code ZTK) for the 2026 Corvette ZR1, which is up from $1,500 to a whopping $4,395 – although it should be said that the package now includes the upgraded carbon ceramic brakes (RPO code J59) with 10-piston front and six-piston rear calipers.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Corvette introduces broader MSRP increases across the Corvette range, with the Stingray and E-Ray up $1,800, the Z06 up $5,700, and the ZR1 up $7,200 compared to 2025.
Beyond the pricing updates, the 2026 Corvette also introduces a new interior layout with a three-screen infotainment system. The new setup includes a 14-inch digital driver display, a 12.7-inch center touchscreen, and a 6.6-inch auxiliary screen to the left of the steering wheel.
Underpinning all C8 Corvette variants, you’ll find the GM Y2 architecture. Vehicle production continues to take place exclusively at the GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky.
Comments
The Stingray price increase aligns more or less with inflation. It’s a good idea to keep the base Corvette affordable.
The $7200 jump in MSRP for ZR1 is significant. However, SOMEbody has to pay for
the new C8 interior design that many of us never cared a whit about. Think of it as a progressive tax with the top 5% (ZR1 buyers) paying most of it.
In the early 2000s, GM announced they were going to make America’s sport car affordable for Americans. Here we are in 2025 that now the Corvette is only affordable to the upperclass. As a military guy, I am not able to purchase my dream car anymore.