When
the eighth-generation Chevrolet Corvette
Introduced in 2019, this vehicle sparked controversy for multiple reasons. The design divided opinions, it no longer provided an option for a manual gearbox, and notably, it adopted a mid-engine layout for the first time ever in the car’s lineage. However, what might have caused the most debate was perhaps the
super driver-centric interior design
, characterized by a vertical column of buttons extending up the center partition between the driver and passenger sections of the dashboard. Recently, Chevy unveiled the 2026 model year C8, and although both the exterior and undercarriage remain largely unchanged, the cabin has been substantially redesigned with an elimination of those button columns.
Fortunately, the Corvette’s cabin remains distinctive in its design, largely focused on the driver, a theme amplified by fresh asymmetrical coloring options. However, the C8’s updated interior is considerably more intuitive, boasting superior tech, additional amenities, and enhanced comfort.
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Much Better Tech
The 2026 Corvette features a new 14-inch digital instrument panel, which is two inches larger compared to the previous model, along with a centrally placed 12.7-inch touch screen that’s increased by 4.7 inches and tilted towards the driver for easier access. Additionally, there’s now an extra 6.6-inch display positioned to the left of the primary gauges showing details such as G-force measurements, tire pressures, turbocharger boosts, and various other metrics. The principal touch screen includes a prominently sized, backlit volume control nearer to the driver side, accompanied by a leather-covered ledge beneath it designed for resting one’s wrist comfortably. The updated entertainment setup boasts superior visuals, enhanced personalization options, and integration with Google Built-In; meanwhile, compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remains intact according to Chevrolet.
Frequently-used climate controls like temperature, fan speed, and defrosters are now in a row of physical buttons underneath the air vent that sits below the screen, while stuff like heated/ventilated seat controls and more HVAC features are found in the screen; all those used to be buttons in that vertical array. Moving all that stuff around let Chevy open up the wraparound console to create a grab handle for the passenger, there’s a new wireless charging pad, and redesigned cupholders are no longer under a cover and have ambient lighting around them. A new drive mode selector is now placed behind the redesigned gear selector buttons, in a surround that also has buttons for the camera system and front lift. There’s USB-C ports now, too.
Asymmetric Color Schemes For The First Time
Chevy says the C8’s cabin “focuses on ultimate craftsmanship,” and the 2026 model is the first Chevy to have an asymmetrical colorway, combining Jet Black with Adrenaline Red — you can even get a red driver’s seat and a black passenger seat. The C8 has always offered awesome interior color schemes, like bright blue or orange, and the 2026 model is no different. Sky Cool and Medium Ash Gray with Habanero orange accents is a new choice, as is vivid Santorini Blue. The funnily named Very Dark Atmosphere combines a rich chocolate brown with Jet Black and Natural Tan, and the Ultimate Suede interior can be had with Adrenaline Red, Competition Yellow or Santorini Blue accents.
The Performance Data Recorder feature comes with an updated user interface and now offers real-time data analytics alongside HD video recording capabilities. This allows for side-by-side comparisons during playback sessions and provides “speed tips” aimed at enhancing your lap times. Additionally, when stationary, you have the option to access streaming services such as HBO Max and Prime Video via various applications.
There Are Also Some Additional New Things
Several additional modifications will be introduced in 2026. One notable addition is a new PTM Pro feature within the Chevrolet Corvette’s Performance Traction Management system. This update disables electronic stability control and traction control but keeps anti-lock braking systems operational along with certain controls over the vehicle’s front axle.
the all-wheel-drive E-Ray hybrid
).
The ZR1
The optional ZTK performance package now includes carbon-ceramic brakes featuring 10-piston calipers at the front and 6-piston calipers at the rear. Additionally, the E-Ray’sCharge+ button, designed for faster battery recharge, has been relocated to the steering wheel for simpler activation.
The Blade Silver Metallic and Roswell Green Metallic are newly available colors, a Carbon Flash with an asymmetrical Edge Red exterior stripe option has been introduced, and blue brake calipers are now offered on the E-Ray model.
Z06
In addition to the ZR1, the body-colored rocker panels are now standard on the E-Ray and optional on the Z06. The best part is that the Corvette now comes with an electrochromic glass panel in the targa roof, which offers three different levels of transparency.
Chevy hasn’t disclosed the price tag or release date for the 2026 Corvette, but production will remain at Bowling Green, Kentucky. The car will also be “put together using components from both domestic and international sources.”
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