2022 Corvette Z06 Continues Tradition of Precision Design, Raw Power, and Aerodynamic Control

Last year one of the most memorable stirs in the global automotive community was caused by the release of the 2021 Corvette C8. It was a truly dazzling piece of engineering from Chevy and continued a long tradition of precision design and high-octane thrills on the tracks and beckoning back roads everywhere. Through careful analysis of spy shots, leaks, and insider sources, the emerging profile and future of the Z06 is revealed. A C8 Z06 has been unofficially announced in various circles to be released sometime in 2021 for the 2022 model year.

This new 'Vette is expected to feature a flat-plane crank engine similar to what is found in the track-only C8 race car. Chassis and suspension upgrades are sure to be added to join mechanical forces with the increased power and assisting with making every dip and dent in the road less noticeable to the driver. The release of the very innovative 2021 Corvette shocked the world with its very driver-focused cabin and meticulous design, brandishing the 6.2-liter V8 LT2 as the standard engine. Featuring direct injection, variable valve timing, and active fuel management, it was a charismatic and punch component of a design that amazed and thrilled many.

The Z06 is expected to see a new engine as a power source, with many betting on the 5.5-liter V8 that cranks out between 600-800 horsepower and around 700 lb-ft of torque. Many web sources and car experts out there note that the incoming Z06 will use an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, identical to what is hard at work in the 2021 C8. In videos of the 2022 Z06 blasting around happily outside of the Detroit testing grounds, the exhaust note is much like the C8, with just a slightly tamer quality. It has been compared to that of the Ferrari 458, which also derives power from a flat-plane crank engine.

A very aggressive wing is said to be a standard feature, and would make sense considering its track-oriented design. Others argue that they are positive a spoiler will be offered instead, and both convertible, as well as hardtop versions of Z06 prototypes, have been spotted, a clear indicator that both styles will be available. The Z06 is also on track to include the revolutionary Performance Data Recorder, which allows you to take note of more than 34 performance statistics, and record detailed video of every single drive.

Heated seats, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are on deck to be included as well, as well as the choice of a 10 or 15-speaker premium Bose audio system to dictate the best in decibel-high driving tunes. A concept sketch of the coming interior was released last year, depicting a Stingray-like interior sporting sleek lines and a squared-off steering wheel, hinting towards its potential for pure thunder on the track. We will keep you up-to-speed here on the Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis blog about arrival dates and other particulars, and are excited to share with everyone just how potent and revolutionary the new Z06 will be! 

2021 Chevy Tahoe Boasts "Composure Over Any Surface, Newfound Spaciousness"

The 2021 Chevy Tahoe marks the first time the full-size SUV has been fully redesigned since 2015, and all of us here at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis believe it's an excellent part of the plan to stay competitive and lean against the sworn arch rival found in the form of the Ford Expedition! After time spent with a lengthy drive of a production Z71 example, seasoned writer Joel Stocksdale found it to be an excellently-packaged SUV with greatly improved interior and a variety of engine choices. 

The standard engine is the 5.3-Liter V8 cranking out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque and is seen on all trims except the High Country, which receives the powerful 6.2-liter V8 making 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come with Dynamic Fuel Management cylinder deactivation, expertly engineered to shut off any cylinder needed instead of an entire set bank. The two engines now are paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission, and later a class-exclusive diesel 3.0-liter inline-six engine will be available with the 10-speed automatic. The 5.3-Liter engine proved to be smooth and quiet, and switching to Sport Mode firms up the suspension perfectly to ease the ride over bumps. 

By using the air suspension, the driver is also able to lower or raise the Tahoe by two inches, aiding with ground clearance. Inside, the interior has been completely remade, and the rounded shape of the main dash features an elegant touch that is wrapped in simulated leather on higher trims. The controls are easy to access and use, and the 10-inch standard touchscreen is responsive and simple to reach. You can also opt for a wide variety of helpful trailering cameras, dual 12.6-inch second-row monitors, and upgrade to a 15-inch heads-up display. These rear screens also can quickly connect with the navigation system so rear passengers can help with destination searches.

The true highlight of the Tahoe's cabin is its new spaciousness, after gaining an extra 6.7 inches in length, wheelbase stretched by 4.9 inches, and the switch to an independent suspension that allows lowering of the floor. It's simple to find a comfortable space up front, with an abundance of head and legroom, as well as plenty of adjustability in the seat and wheel. A 5-ft-11" tall passenger was poised in the second row with plenty of room to spare, and the third row boasts as much legroom as the bigger Suburban.

Cargo space also sees a boost in the new model, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row. The outgoing model just had 15.3 cubic feet here, and with all seats folded, space expands from 94.7 cubic feet to 122.9. Maximum towing capacity remains the same at 8,400 pounds, and for those eager to get off-road as soon as possible, the Tahoe Z71 sports all-terrain tires, a limited-slip differential, skid plates, and unique front bumper for an improved approach.

Carscoops Wonders Aloud: Does This Recent C8 Pace Car Blaze The Path for Coming 2021 Corvette Stingray R?

 During a year that has seen some strange changes and circumstances, there has still been some “good news” to get excited about such as this tidbit from Carscoops regarding cars coming soon! Earlier this month, Corvette racing saw the unveiling of a specialized pace car that will enthusiastically lead the pack at the IMSA GTLM Championship round during Road America. As the days of summer proceeded, a bit more unexpected news came out regarding this pace car. In March, leaked information was able to shed some light on dealerships about the 2021 Corvette making mention of a “Stingray R” theme package for new mid-engined marvel. 

At the time not much was known at all about the appearance and features on the model, but the Stingray pace car may have actually been sporting the graphics package. The staff of Motor1 claimed that the white 2021 Corvette Stingray pace car has a racing stripe running down the hood and over the roof, and an aero package that boasts a new front splitter and side skirts. The splitter, rear wing endplates, wing mirror, and side skirts all have red accents, attempting to closely imitate the look of the blisteringly fast C8.R race car. 

What really gives away the future intentions and potential for the model is that the Corvette pace car has a “Stingray R” sticker right on the front splitter, noticed when we spotted the new two small LED lights in the front grille. At this time what will be new on the model will most likely be visual modifications instead of performance changes, but we will keep you up-to-date on any changes and news leaks in the future. With perfectly aggressive lines and what all of us here at Jim Butler Chevy of St Louis consider the nicest interior on a 'Vette ever, the C8 roared onto the scene with a bang, making its debut last summer in a large California airline hangar. 

According to other recent reports, a copy of the 2021 Chevy Corvette Order Guide summary was leaked online, illustrating in detail the changes expected for the next model year. Some of these changes do include new racing stripe options and exterior colors, and this particular leaked guide also sees mention of a “Stingray R” theme graphics and wheel cap” package. This also leads us to believe that a new package could fall in line with the Z06 C7.R Edition available on the previous years' model. 

The current C8 is covered in Silver Flare paint and is available with yellow racing stripes, yellow accents, and red side view mirrors. The large rear spoiler also brandishes red endplates, while a graphic that reads “C8.R” is situated just in front of the rear wheels. These few additives also look like plausible items included on the 2021 production Stingray with a brand-new package.

The Nation's Best-Selling Full-Size SUV Blows Out Birthday Candles: Chevy Tahoe's 25th Year on The Road

When it very first hit the automotive scene in 1995, the Tahoe offered the precise maneuverability of a short-wheelbase truck while also having four-door practicality. It boasted the multi-purpose family vehicle angle, the versatility to tow a trailer, go off-road, and offer comfort on long trips. As all of us here at Jim Butler Chevy of St Louis are celebrating its 25^th year on the road, we are taking a minute to reflect here on the blog this week all of the great features it has and how many customers it has left satisfied!

This is a vehicle that has seen consistent honors for durability, reliability, and customer experience. Just recently it enjoyed honors in the J.D. Power 2019 initial Quality Study and the 2018 Kelley Blue Book's 5-year Cost to Own Awards. It is so well-liked that it accounts for nearly one of every four full-size SUVs sold in the U.S., and when grouped with the Suburban, the Chevy brand accounts for 45 percent of the full-size SUV segment, which doubles the results of our closest competitor. 

Law enforcement and government agencies have always needed vehicles that are rugged, durable, and reliable, and the Tahoe has delivered just that for years. The fully-equipped Tahoe PPV (Police Pursuit Vehicle) features modifications to the suspension and control to handle high-speed driving and rapid stops, elements you may encounter when trying to pursue any suspect. There is also a high output alternator and an auxiliary battery, which help provide vital power for laptops and pursuit lights.

Many who have purchased and enjoyed the Tahoe claim that it resonated so well with them because they loved the new technology that was added to each year's model, and performance, as well as capability, were improved annually as well to meet the customer's frequently changing needs. Every single Tahoe produced in Arlington, Texas makes use of globally-sourced parts, and all eyes were on the incoming model when it made its debut in Detroit in the stadium that the Detroit Red Wings Hockey team and Detroit Pistons call home.