What's the news?

The convertible version of the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray was unveiled this week at the Geneva Motor Show. As well having the most powerful engine ever fitted to a standard open-topped Corvette, the roof can be controlled remotely by the key fob - giving drivers more than enough chance to show off.

Exterior

The basic design of the Stingray convertible is carried over from the coupé version. The three-ply fabric roof features sound proofing and a glass rear window - and can be operated at speeds of up to 30mph. When retracted, two black panels are found behind the seats, between which Chevrolet has installed its signature body-coloured 'waterfall'.

Interior

Carbon fibre, aluminium and leather are the three main materials used for the Corvette's interior. Standard equipment is similar to the coupé's, including the two eight-inch infotainment screens and the five-way Drive Mode Selector. The convertible also gets two new seat options, with lightweight magnesium frames designed to provide optimum support.

Mechanicals

The 6.2-litre LT-1 V8 engine is the same unit found in the standard Corvette Stingray, producing 610Nm of torque and 450hp. To ensure drivers can still get the best out of this engine, Chevrolet has designed a new aluminium frame for the Stingray, which is claimed to be 57 per cent stiffer and 45 per cent lighter than the outgoing model's. Thanks to this frame, the only structural changes needed for the convertible version is storage for the retracted roof - and repositioned seat belt mounts. Both models have identical power-to-weight ratios and a perfect 50/50 weight distribution.

Anything else?

For those who feel that the standard models are not fast enough however, Chevrolet is offering a Z51 Track Performance Package that can be fitted to either version. This pack contains a new high-speed aero kit, an electronically-controlled limited slip differential with cooling for it and the gearbox, and a dry sump oil system. The whole package could be fairly pricey, but should make this potentially brilliant car an absolute corker on track.

Both the coupé and convertible versions of the Corvette are set to go on sale later this year.

James Giddings - 7 Mar 2013