Hybrid Corvette Reborn: The Stunning Grand Sport X

Chevrolet has developed something of a modern tradition with recent generations of the Corvette: As a new generation approaches, the company rolls out the Grand Sport. It's intended to be a sort of "sweet spot" version of the 'Vette, pairing the go-fast bits of the higher-spec machines with the entry-level motor found in the Stingray.

If that pattern holds, the mid-engined, eighth-generation Corvette may be nearing the end—because this is the new Grand Sport. This one, though, is different. It comes with an all-new V8 at its heart, one with substantially more power and torque than the current base Stingray. If that's not enough, you can also get it with the ZR1X's electric motor and battery. That model is called the Grand Sport X, and it's the effective replacement for the first all-wheel-drive hybrid Corvette.

Yes, the E-Ray is dead, three years after Chevrolet raised eyebrows by putting an electric motor in a Corvette. But the Grand Sport X looks to be a worthy successor, blending the brand's trademark performance with the latest in hybrid technology.

The Grand Sport X is powered by the same 6.2-liter LT2 V8 engine found in the Stingray, but with some key enhancements. Power is up to 520 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, a substantial increase over the standard Stingray's 490 hp and 465 lb-ft. That gives the Grand Sport X the ability to hit 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, according to Chevrolet.

But the real party trick comes from the hybrid system, which adds a 150-horsepower electric motor and a 1.9 kWh battery pack. That boosts total system output to 670 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, putting the Grand Sport X firmly in ZR1X territory. Chevrolet claims a 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds for the hybrid version.

The Grand Sport X also benefits from the same chassis, suspension, and braking upgrades as the standard Grand Sport. That means Magnetic Ride Control dampers, larger brake rotors, and stickier tires. You can also option the Z07 performance package, which adds even more go-fast goodies.

Visually, the Grand Sport X is distinguished by its unique front and rear fascias, as well as available aerodynamic add-ons like a larger rear wing. Inside, it gets a similar treatment to the standard Grand Sport, with sports seats, a performance steering wheel, and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster.

Pricing for the Grand Sport X hasn't been announced yet, but it's safe to assume it will command a healthy premium over the standard Grand Sport, which starts at $75,000. With the performance and technology on offer, the Grand Sport X could easily top $100,000.

But for those who want the ultimate in Corvette performance, short of the stratospheric ZR1X, the Grand Sport X looks to be a compelling option. It blends the brand's legendary handling and style with the efficiency and instant torque of a hybrid powertrain, making it a true technological tour de force.