Report: C7 Corvette put on indefinite hold

There are all manner of rumors concerning the next-generation C7 Corvette, with stories ranging from the possibility of a mid-engined platform to AWD powertrains and even the arrival of a dual-clutch version. Although there isn’t much substance to any of these rumors, one of them that’s starting to gain credence is the possibility the new car could be delayed due to upcoming CAFE regulations as well as General Motors' own financial problems. According to a new report, the C7 Corvette has been put on indefinite hold. Not only is there no set timetable for the next-generation model, AutoWeek reports that a planned refreshed for the current C6 model also looks unlikely to appear anytime soon. Insider sources have revealed that the C7 was originally planned to be introduced in 2012 for the 2013 model year but this is now unlikely to happen. To make matters worse they claim senior management does not have a clear roadmap for the car’s future. One bright spot is that no one has mentioned the idea of the Corvette being dropped altogether from GM’s portfolio. Contrary to the insider information, Corvette vehicle-line executive Tom Wallace has previously stated that GM was working on a future Corvette and that some changes to the current model are coming in 2010. He also acknowledged that CAFE regulations will play a role in determining the layout and hardware of the next-generation Corvette but stressed that it won’t kill the car. “No one is saying we're not doing Corvettes. We're still bullish on Corvettes," he said.

By Clint Harris #1, Posted: 1/23/2008

Hopefully the next version won't have a Cavalier esque interior as well ! Go mid-engine Chevy ! redesign the whole car pls ! Give it non leaf spring suspension while your at it ! Use CF instead of FG !
By C6 Owner #2, Posted: 4/23/2008

GM is not stupid enough to change an American legacy. 80% of it's buyers are Corvette loyalists who buy Corvettes again and again every 5 or 6 years. GM can't afford to lose their customer trust or loyalty. They can do any or a few of these things to the next generation Corvette;
1. Variable Valve Timing
2. Variable Event Timing
3. Variable Intake
4. Variable Throttle Body
5. Tune the CPU to a more fuel efficient setting
6. Give it a 7 or 8 Speed Transmission
7. Use Balsa Wood under the cabin and Magnesium Engine Cradle-like they currently do in the Z06
8. Use more Carbon Fiber-Like they currently do on the ZR-1
9. Use less agressive gear ratios
10. Make the car more aerodynamic

As you can see, there are tons of simple ways to make the Vette far more fuel efficient. Now why would GM go and do any of the stupid, irresposible things these "rumors" falsely claim???????????????????????????????
By C6 Owner #3, Posted: 4/23/2008

By the way, I already get 32 mpg on the Highway and 18 in the city (NYC) with my stock 2006 Corvette (6 Speed Manual Transmission)
by NoNameDenton #4, Posted: 10/17/2008

Lame but saw it coming, should get DI and turbos with small displacment V8s
by Damien Thomas #5, Posted: 10/17/2008

@ C6 Owner,

All of those are good modifications, but marketing and bragging rights also play a major role in determining what goes into the next Corvette.

As much as I hate to admit it, most people won't be turned on by valve timing or lightweight balsa, but mention dual clutch and AWD and all of sudden you have all of the playstation generation keen. So i wouldn't call these rumors stupid or irresponsible.
by NoNameDenton #6, Posted: 10/17/2008

The awd rumor was already shot down, but the dual clutch is probably gonna happen
by Ivan #7, Posted: 10/18/2008

@C6

I am not an auto expert, but from the looks of it, you want GM to completely rework the engine, tranny and use more "exotic" materials throughtout the car. I am sure it will help it beat the CAFE, but I doubt it will have $60K price tag, with the mods you mentioned it will be close to $80-90K base C7.

I am sure most of those loyal customers will have to rethink getting C7 with such price tag.