Chevrolet looks ready to revive one of the most beloved names in Corvette history, with the Grand Sport set to return for the 2027 model year in a way that leans heavily into nostalgia while still fitting neatly into the modern C8 lineup.
A recently spotted, completely undisguised prototype in California strongly suggests that the official debut isn’t far off, and the details visible so far point to a carefully judged blend of heritage styling and fresh performance hardware.
The sighting occurred along Angeles Crest Highway, where an Instagram user happened upon two C8 Corvettes parked roadside with several support vehicles nearby, a setup that looked very much like a professional photo or video shoot.
One car in particular drew attention, finished in the instantly recognizable Admiral Blue. This color choice is no accident. Admiral Blue first became synonymous with the C4 Corvette Grand Sport and later returned as a signature hue for the C7 generation. For 2027, it appears to be reclaiming its place as the defining shade of the Grand Sport identity.
Adding to the throwback appeal are classic red stripes, another Grand Sport hallmark. Unlike earlier versions where the stripes ran along the front quarter panels, the C8 interpretation relocates them to the rear quarters, subtly modernizing the look while still honoring the past.
The prototype also wears a prominent rear lip spoiler and centrally mounted exhaust outlets, a layout shared with the current Z06 and ZR1, reinforcing its position as a serious performance variant rather than a purely cosmetic package.
Under the skin, the upcoming Grand Sport is expected to introduce an all-new naturally aspirated small-block V8, reportedly known as the LS6. This engine is said to displace 6.7 liters, or 409 cubic inches, and to use both direct and port fuel injection.
Output is rumored to be around 550 horsepower, a figure that neatly slots the Grand Sport between the standard Stingray and the 655-horsepower hybrid E-Ray. If accurate, that power level would make the Grand Sport a compelling option for buyers who want more punch than the base car without stepping into hybrid complexity or extreme pricing.
From a strategic standpoint, Chevrolet appears confident that this formula will resonate strongly with buyers. The Stingray currently starts at around $70,000, while the E-Ray jumps to over $108,000, leaving a sizable pricing gap in the middle.
Industry expectations suggest the Grand Sport will land somewhere between $85,000 and $100,000, a sweet spot that could make it the best-selling variant of the entire C8 range.
Taken together, the early signs point to a Grand Sport that embraces its legacy without feeling stuck in the past. By pairing iconic colors and striping with a new-generation V8 and contemporary C8 hardware, the 2027 Corvette Grand Sport looks poised to deliver exactly what the nameplate has always promised: a balanced, highly desirable performance Corvette that hits hard with both enthusiasts and everyday buyers.
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