I've been wondering for a while what it would be like if Chevy decided to build a different kind of Corvette alongside the current high performance models. This model would put more effort into fuel economy and comfort than all out performance numbers.

I'm thinking that a new model could be created that would push the limits of fuel economy and comfort.

Think of what these changes could do to a Corvette.

Either start with a Z06 or ZR1 body that already uses carbon fiber and an aluminum frame to get the weight down, or if there is enough of a market, create a more aerodynamic lightweight body that doesn't have the wide fender flares, rocker moldings, or spoilers.

Use the same size taller and narrower tires all around. The XLR uses 235/50R18 runflats all around.

Retune the MSRC adjustable suspension to be a bit more forgiving and to increase the ride height.

And most importantly, introduce ActiveFuelManagement, VariableValveTiming, and DirectGasInjection in either a new engine displacement or reuse one of the proven smaller displacements using the current architecture. If given the ooportunity using currently available technology listed above the 4.8L V8 has the potential to make the same power and torque as the LS1. Plus the Gen4 5.3L aluminum block supports AFM to allow 4 cylinder cruising on the highway. Naturally the exhaust system would need to be tuned so that when AFM engages, the sound isn't too obvious. This has been done in the LS4 FWD vehicles and the Z06 already uses an adjustable muffler system, so it shouldn't be too difficult.

With the Corvette's very lightweight and aerodynamics, the smaller, more efficient engine should be able to achieve very good fuel economy numbers. The current car is rated at 15-16/25-26MPG with the 6.2L 430hp LS3. I have no doubt that with the more efficient small displacement engine, these numbers could be bumped up to 20-21/30-31MPG. It is a given that performance will suffer, but with this model, that is not the point.

Compare that fuel economy to other cars like this.
The 210hp V6 Mustang is rated at 17 City/26 Hwy With Manual & 16 City/24 Hwy With Automatic.
The V6 Mercedes Benz CLK350 is rated at 17/25. The current Vette already gets better mileage than any MB roadster/convertible.
The BMW Z4 is rated at 18-19/28.

 

I really think it would hurt the Corvettes image. Its production is very low so I doubt it affects CAFE ratings.

Plus if you have a new Corvette--you should not be bitching about gas---you have money

 

I have always thought Corvette gets pretty much class leading MPG as it stands...

 

So basically turn the car into an anti-Corvette?

 

I'd love to see a 2999lbs. Corvette. Just make the C7 lighter, ad VVT, GDI, AFM and you will get the best of both worlds. A lighter Corvette could get away with a smaller V8 too and still have the same performance.

 

Why not just introduce all of those power-adding and fuel-saving technologies to the LS3 for ALL the Corvettes, give one extra comfier setting on the MRC suspension, and if you really want to take it past there, add a non-runflat tire option. That would keep anybody from getting too upset and would add all of the fuel saving features you wanted to as optional on all Vettes... except for lightening the body, which is not cost effective from what I've seen - the gains in fuel would be forever paying for the increased cost of the car.

 

The only thing I can see is GM offering AFM on the automatics, and maybe a DI motors. They will never call it or market it as an XFE. People who can spend money on a vette aren't really concerned about the price of gas.

Can't you see the marketing of it...

The new 2012 Chevy Corvette XFE...
The least practical, most fuel efficient car ever made.

Really, it doesn't work. Corvettes are great cars, I would love to own one. The mileage is great for what it does already.

 

While a Corvette XFE is a bad idea, the idea of expanding the XFE designation and idea to other models is a great idea. GM should do a XFE Silverado (2.4 Ecotec/6 speed auto combo or 2.9 Atlas/6 speed auto), Equinox 2.4 Ecotec/6 speed, Aveo (Family 0 engine)... All would have economy gearing and not have performance in mind.

It is certainly something that someone at GM should be working on already.

 

Ecotec and Silverado?

I can only see a low displacement diesel (3 litres) as the lowest displacement engine offered.

 

Wasn't that the general idea of a Corvette brand and Stingray model based off of the Solstice?

 

I like what you said... until you mentioned it with the Silverado engines.

Honestly, I think small and midsized vehicles could have this designation, maybe small SUVs as well. But large cars and large SUV's... that would just sound anemic and hybrids would probably do better in that segment.

 

You could certainly do an XFE camaro. Just add tall gears, skinny gas mileage oriented tires and maybe a softer tuned PCM with conservative shift points for automagics and other stufff like maybe more PE delay time like some of the trucks have. Add that to the basic V6, or even a 4 popper and i bet you'd get some takers.

A corvette XFE is stupid though, not too many people daily drive corvettes, and those who do probably aren't that worried about gas milage.

 

1.9L Turbo Diesel + 6 speed auto would be a great combination for the Silverado. That engine puts out the same torque as a 4.8L gas V8.

 

For those scoffing at the 4 cylinder Silverado look at it this way the 4.3 is making 190 hp and 260 ft/lbs of torque. The 2.9 Atlas has 185 hp and 190 ft/lbs torque in the Colorado. The 2.0 DI Turbo makes 260 hp and 260 ft/lbs in FWD and RWD applications.

 

The 4.3 you mentioned is sold only for WT models and you can't get it with trailering equipment. Literally this is for cheap trucks need for very limited capabilities. If you want that in your truck, ok. But I bet the 2.0 DI Turbo cost more than the 4.3, which means it wouldn't be cheap. It also would need premium fuel, again not cheap.

It might work in the Colorado/Canyon, if the costs fit. I would see it as a replacement for the I5 engine. I am not sure what the torque curve of the LNF looks like when compared to other engines. That is something to think about though in the market.