Spy Photo Sparks Fresh Debate

A camouflaged widebody C8 Corvette has ignited speculation that Chevrolet may be preparing to launch a new C8 Grand Sport variant. The prototype was photographed sitting in a suburban driveway and briefly circulated on social media before the image was deleted, but not before the team at GM Authority noticed details that don’t match any current production model and saved the picture.

Familiar Styling, Unusual Details

The test car appears to wear the widebody treatment found on the C8 Z06 and C8 E-Ray, along with Z06-style wheels. Rear vents below the taillights were partially disguised with camo, attempting to mimic the square-shaped Stingray pieces, but a closer look reveals they are actually the rectangular vents seen on the Z06, E-Ray, and ZR1. These elements suggest performance potential beyond the base Stingray.

The exhaust configuration adds further intrigue. The car features square outboard exhaust tips, which match the Stingray and E-Ray but differ from the U.S.-spec Z06’s signature center-exit quad setup. Notably, the European-market Z06 does use an outboard exhaust layout due to regulations, but the heavy camouflage raises doubts that this is simply a Z06 for overseas markets.

What It’s Not

Some enthusiasts speculated this could be an E-Ray, but that model has already debuted, making camouflage unlikely. Others floated the theory of a European-market Z06, but again, a camo-wrapped prototype years after its reveal seems improbable. That leaves room for a third option—one that Corvette faithful have been hoping for.

Could This Be the C8 Grand Sport?

The strongest theory is that this prototype previews a new Grand Sport. Historically, the Grand Sport has filled the sweet spot between the base Corvette and the higher-performance models by blending the entry-level powertrain with upgraded chassis and aero components. With today’s lineup, there’s a significant gap between the Stingray, starting at $71,995, and the E-Ray, which begins at $110,595. A Grand Sport priced around $90,000 would slot in neatly between the two.

If true, the C8 Grand Sport would likely carry over the Stingray’s naturally aspirated 6.2L LT2 V8, possibly with a small horsepower bump, and combine it with the Z06’s widebody stance and suspension upgrades. That formula would deliver sharper handling and track-ready looks without the added cost or complexity of hybrid technology. There is also a small chance this is testing the upcoming Gen VI small-block.

Looking Ahead

Chevrolet has yet to comment on the sighting, but the timing makes sense. The Grand Sport badge has long been a staple in Corvette history, and with the current lineup’s price gaps and performance ladder, there’s room for a new entry. Whether this camouflaged test car is indeed the C8 Grand Sport remains to be confirmed, but the possibility has Corvette fans watching closely for the next move.