Rides : New details suggest evolutionary C7 Corvette, no split window

We're as excited as anyone to see the next-generation Corvette, even if it is still a few years off. But while the C7 'Vette isn't slated to arrive until 2013 as a 2014 model, it hasn't stopped the rumormill from pumping out wild speculation. We've heard everything from a split rear window design to a turbocharged V8 engine, but according to GMInsideNews, it's all a bunch of baloney.

GMI reports that the design of the next Corvette will be more evolutionary than revolutionary. This means that the new car won't feature a standard split window, and the publication's inside sources won't confirm an optional split-window, either. GMI also reports that the rumored 5.5-liter V8 likely won't happen. Instead, word around the Interwebs is that the Corvette's base engine will still be the tried-and-true 6.2-liter V8. To no one's surprise, the mid-engine layout rumor – something that has never been corroborated to begin with – has also been debunked.

But enough of what won't happen: GMI sources do reveal that the design of the C7 'Vette will be European in nature, and the interior will receive a major – and much needed – overhaul. Materials are said to receive a bigtime update, and the Corvette's infotainment system will include a large LCD display in the gauge cluster. Several sources have also claimed that the 2014 Corvette will feature a seven-speed manual transmission for improved fuel economy.

Rides : 2011-2012 Chevrolet Corvette recall hatched over faulty hinges

General Motors is recalling 5,755 2011-2012 Chevrolet Corvette coupes for potentially faulty hatch hinges that could break loose in a crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the rear hatch hinges on Vettes built between January and September don't meet federal weight capacity requirements.

The recall was scheduled to start on Oct. 7. According to the recall, dealers will notify owners of the recall and inspect and replace both hinges for free as necessary.

 

Press Release

text

Report Date : October 9, 2011 at 12:45 PM
NHTSA Campaign ID number : 11V491000

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
CHEVROLET / CORVETTE 2011-2012
Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC Mfr's Report Date: OCT 03, 2011
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V491000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
Potential Number of Units Affected: 5,755
Summary:
GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 CHEVROLET CORVETTE COUPE VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 24, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1, 2011, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 206, "DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS". THE REAR HATCH HINGES MAY NOT MEET THE LOAD REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIED IN THE SAFETY STANDARD.
Consequence:
THE REAR HATCH COULD SEPARATE IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy:
GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH REAR HATCH HINGES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE OCTOBER 7, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.
Notes:
GM'S SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS 11258. OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .