2009 Chevrolet Corvette: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is the arrival of the 638-hp supercharged ZR1 as the new flagship. This is a meaningful trim expansion within the existing C6 generation, not a full redesign.
About the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette
C6 generation (2005-2013), fifth model year; ZR1 debut year.
Chevrolet positioned the Corvette as its two-seat American sports car that mixed big V8 power and track credibility with more day-to-day usefulness than many exotic rivals. Even in standard form, it offered serious straight-line speed, rear-drive balance, and a surprisingly practical cargo area, while the upper trims pushed the formula toward track-day and supercar territory. In 2009, the Corvette’s core appeal was still that broad blend of performance, usability, and distinctly American character.
The regular 430-hp Corvette remains the more everyday-friendly coupe or convertible, while the 505-hp Z06 keeps its lighter, track-focused setup. Above both sits the new ZR1 with magnetic dampers, carbon-ceramic brakes, and visible carbon-fiber parts, while limited GT1 Championship Editions add Corvette Racing graphics and yellow-accented interiors.
What changed, by category
2009 Chevrolet Corvette specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 7.0 Liter | V8, Supercharged, 6.2L | V8, 6.2 Liter | V8, 6.2 Liter | V8, 7.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Paddle Shift | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Paddle Shift | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 14 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 20 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 505 hp | 638 hp | 430 hp | 430 hp | 505 hp |
| Torque | 470 lb-ft | 604 lb-ft | 424 lb-ft | 424 lb-ft | 470 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 22.4 cu-ft | 22.4 cu-ft | 11–22.4 cu-ft | 11–22.4 cu-ft | 22.4 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Bluetooth | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Interior Trim | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Tilt Wheel | |||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette?
The biggest change is the arrival of the ZR1. It becomes the flagship Corvette with a 638-hp supercharged V8, magnetic dampers, carbon-ceramic brakes, and several carbon-fiber body pieces.
Does the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette have launch control?
Yes. Manual-transmission 2009 Corvettes gain launch control, which helps the car manage wheelspin during a hard start.
How is the 2009 Corvette ZR1 different from the Z06?
The ZR1 uses a 638-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8, magnetic dampers, and carbon-ceramic brakes. The Z06 uses a naturally aspirated 505-hp 7.0-liter V8 and remains the lighter, more straightforward track-focused model.
What is the 2009 Corvette GT1 Championship Edition?
The GT1 Championship Edition is a limited late-year tribute to Corvette Racing's ALMS GT1 success. Regular Corvette and Z06 versions receive race-inspired graphics, yellow interior accents, a special engine cover, a rear spoiler, and unique edition identification.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette a full redesign?
No. The 2009 Corvette remains part of the C6 generation introduced for 2005. Its major news is the expanded lineup led by the new ZR1, along with smaller mechanical updates and limited GT1 Championship Editions.