Here at Jim Butler Chevrolet of St. Louis, we’ve seen our fair share of performance machines. But few make a statement like the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1—especially after experiencing it firsthand at Circuit of the Americas (COTA). This racetrack demands the best from any vehicle brave enough to take it on.
With its tricky decreasing-radius S-curves, a blind-entry kink at Turn 10, a fast three-apex combo at turns 16 through 18, and the deceptively quick Turn 19, COTA is a true proving ground. So when Chevrolet invited us to the official first drive of the ZR1 at this legendary 3.41-mile, 20-turn Formula 1 circuit in Texas, we knew they were serious.
The Numbers Are Wild—but the Experience Is Wilder
We already knew Corvettes were no slouch on the track. But let’s be honest—ZR1s have always leaned toward muscle-car brute force, the kind you slap on posters with massive horsepower stats. And this new one? It’s a game-changer.
With a staggering 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque from its new LT7 engine, the 2025 ZR1 isn’t just stronger than its predecessor—it’s on another planet. For context, the previous-gen ZR1 had 755 hp and was described by pro drivers as a bit of a handful. Overwhelmed traction control, sketchy rear-end behavior, and wild power delivery were common complaints.
Chevy clearly took that feedback seriously.
The LT7: Built to Thrill, Engineered to Control
This monster of a powerplant isn’t just a turbocharged version of the Z06’s engine—it’s a complete re-engineering. While the LT6 and LT7 share architecture, the similarities end there. The LT7 uses dished pistons, new titanium rods, and a lower 9.8:1 compression ratio to better handle the turbo setup. It adds revised cams, larger combustion chambers, a dual fuel-injection system (yes, 16 injectors), and a motorsport-inspired cooling system.
The two ball-bearing turbos are engineered for relentless boost with minimal lag, even under braking. Chevy’s engineers say they can move enough air to fill an Olympic-sized pool in four minutes—an insane stat that somehow matches the performance we felt on track.
And about that cooling system? It’s good enough to keep this beast humming lap after lap, using tech inspired by the Corvette Z06 GT3.R race car—the same one that competes in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Rolex 24 at Daytona.
Confidence in Every Corner
When we finally got behind the wheel at COTA, Chevy wisely started us off in a standard C8 to get our bearings. But the real surprise came once we transitioned to the ZR1.
Despite the jaw-dropping specs, the ZR1 is shockingly approachable. On solo laps, we quickly found ourselves exploring the outer limits of the throttle—and doing so without fear. Chevy required Performance Traction Management to stay active (for good reason), but even then, we noticed how composed and balanced the car was, even when pushed.
It’s lightyears ahead of the last ZR1, and a testament to how much Chevy has improved power delivery, traction, and overall control.
Raw Power Meets Precision
Rolling on Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires and fitted with the optional Carbon Aero package, the ZR1 felt planted and precise. Yes, the tail will dance if you’re too greedy with the throttle, but it’s easily manageable—and fun.
This isn't just about speed. The ZR1 delivers a sensory overload. The LT7's 8,000 rpm redline is addictive. Peak torque hits at 6,000 rpm and horsepower peaks at 7,000, making it feel alive across the entire rev range. The sound? It’s a mix of a banshee shriek and a thunderous growl—something no EV can replicate, no matter how quick.
And yes, it’s fast. Chevy says 0–60 mph happens in 2.5 seconds and the quarter mile flashes by in 9.7 seconds at 152 mph. That’s in a rear-wheel-drive setup—without the benefit of all-wheel traction.
This Is the Corvette to Beat
Within a few laps, any concern about unmanageable power vanished. Instead, we found ourselves just enjoying the drive—pushing for better lines, cleaner exits, and faster laps. And that’s what separates this ZR1 from its predecessors: it’s not just about brute force; it’s about finesse.
If you're serious about performance, the ZTK Performance Package is a must-have. It pairs with the Carbon Aero package to unlock the ZR1’s full potential, transforming the coupe into a true track weapon. And for everything it adds in capability and thrill, it’s a compelling upgrade that makes the already potent ZR1 even more exceptional.
Bottom Line: It’s Not Just Fast—It’s Brilliant
We haven’t yet tested the ZR1 on public roads, but based on our time at COTA, there’s no reason to believe it won’t be an engaging daily companion. It’s civilized when you need it to be and outrageous when you want it to be.
Refined, powerful, and unmistakably iconic—the 2025 Corvette ZR1 has arrived at our St. Louis showroom. If you’re searching for a driving experience that blends sophistication with world-class performance, this is your invitation to experience the extraordinary.
