The Chevrolet Corvette has long been a benchmark for American sports cars, offering thrilling performance at a price point that undercuts many European competitors. The 2017 model year introduced the Grand Sport variant, further solidifying the Corvette’s position as a high-performance bargain. With a powerful 455-hp V-8 engine, aggressive handling, and surprisingly practical features, the Corvette delivers a supercar experience without the supercar price tag.
The Grand Sport Advantage
Chevrolet’s addition of the Grand Sport model in 2017 was a significant upgrade. It borrows the wider body and reinforced chassis from the track-focused Z06, providing enhanced stability and grip, but retains the more accessible powertrain of the base Corvette. This combination won the Grand Sport a spot on Car and Driver ‘s 10Best Cars list for 2017, proving its exceptional performance.
Why this matters: The Grand Sport bridges the gap between everyday usability and track-day capability, making it an attractive option for drivers who want a high-performance vehicle without sacrificing comfort or affordability. The aggressive styling and improved handling make it a standout choice in its class.
Pricing and Trims
The 2017 Corvette offered several trim levels, with MSRPs ranging from $56,445 to $66,445 for the Grand Sport:
- 1LT: $56,445
- 2LT: $60,900
- 3LT: $66,190
- Z51: $61,445
- Grand Sport: $66,445
These prices position the Corvette competitively against rivals like Porsche 911s and Audi R8s, which often command significantly higher price tags.
Performance and Handling
The heart of the Corvette is its 6.2-liter V-8 engine, producing 455 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This power is delivered through either a standard seven-speed manual or an optional eight-speed automatic transmission. The Corvette accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds, with the automatic version achieving a stunning 3.7-second time.
Key point: The Corvette’s handling is exceptional, providing a confident and engaging driving experience. It’s brutally quick, stops with incredible force, and remains remarkably composed even at high speeds. This makes it a true performance machine that can compete with the best in the world.
Interior and Technology
The Corvette’s interior is functional rather than luxurious, with noticeable plastic materials that may not impress Audi or Porsche buyers. However, the focus is clearly on performance, and the interior provides adequate comfort for spirited driving.
Key features include:
- Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Nine-speaker Bose audio system
- Available head-up display with g-force meter
- Three USB ports for convenient device charging
The interior is driver-focused, with the center stack angled toward the driver and a passenger-side handle integrated into the trim for added security during aggressive maneuvers.
Safety and Reliability
The Corvette’s safety features include advanced stability control and available driver-assist technologies. Crash test ratings are available through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Chevrolet also offers a standard warranty for added peace of mind.
Conclusion
The 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport is a compelling blend of performance, affordability, and practicality. It delivers supercar-level thrills at a fraction of the cost, making it an attractive option for drivers who demand high performance without breaking the bank. While the interior may not rival luxury brands, the Corvette’s raw power and exceptional handling make it a standout choice in its class.
