Z51 Package Will Look a Little Different for the 2022 C8

Several updates are in store for the 2022 C8 including the Z51 Performance Package, LT2 engine, and exterior colors.

In a recent report from GM Authority, we’ve learned just how big a homerun the Z51 Performance Package was for the C8 Corvette. To be fair, the C8 has been a smashing success with auto enthusiasts in every metric. Nevertheless, a few things are changing for the 2022 model year.

A few minor updates are coming for the 2022 model year including an engine tweak. Unfortunately, we’re not getting a power bump, but the C8 will see a few welcome additions outside the engine department.

Z51 Performance Package

According to director of car and crossover marketing, Tony Johnson, Corvette owners have opted to receive the Z51 Performance Package in over 60% of sales. Not surprising considering the Z51 offers so much. For those unfamiliar the Z51 package includes:

• Z51 rear spoiler
• Front splitter
• Performance suspension
• Performance exhaust
• Performance cooling system
• Performance rear axle ratio
• Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD)
• 245/35ZR19 front and 305/30ZR20 rear performance tires

And all of this comes in at a cool $5,995. Not bad Chevrolet. Not bad.

For those who are familiar, you’ll notice two things. One, the price jumped $995 from 2020. Two, Magnetic Selective Ride Control (MSRC) suspension system is no longer a part of the package. For 2022, the MSRC will be available as a standalone option as opposed to only being available in the Z51 package in previous models.

Expect the Z51 package to take a slight dip in customer take-rate due to these factors, but we’re betting it won’t suffer much. There’s a lot of sweet goodies in there.

LT2 Updates

Additionally, GM Authority shares that the LT2 is getting a bit of an update. Not the fun kind, but a necessary one. For 2022 C8 Corvettes, the LT2 will feature a revised fuel delivery and fuel management system along with engine recalibrations. These upgrades will help the C8 to continue to meet ever-stricter emissions standards.

The LT2’s horsepower and torque ratings remain unchanged for this year despite the changes. Those ratings won’t change if you opt-in for the Z51 package either.

Other Updates

There are a few other items coming down the pipeline for the 2022 model year. First off, the C8 will add a new low-profile rear spoiler. The thing looks nice. It’s subtle but certainly fits well with the overall aesthetic. The C8 will also be receiving three new exterior colors; Hypersonic Gray, Caffeine, and Amplify Orange.

Lastly, and perhaps most exciting, is the addition of the new C8.R GTLM Championship Edition. This edition commemorates the 2020 IMSA championship season with exclusive equipment and graphics. Be on the lookout for these sure-to-be collector cars.

Production is expected to begin later this summer. Showroom floors and driveways will see 2022 C8s shortly after.

Photos: GM

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