2026 Corvette SS 572 Unleashed Chevy Most Powerful Muscle Car Yet

Chevrolet has taken things to a whole new level with the 2026 Corvette SS 572. This isn’t just another special edition. It’s a full-blown monster designed to thrill muscle car fans with raw power, aggressive styling, and a nostalgic nod to the golden era of American performance.

Whether you’re a lifelong Corvette lover or just someone who appreciates high-horsepower machines, the SS 572 is something worth talking about.

What Is the 2026 Corvette SS 572 and Why It Matters

The 2026 Corvette SS 572 is Chevrolet’s tribute to classic American muscle, brought back to life with modern engineering. The “572” in its name refers to the 572-cubic-inch big-block V8 under the hood that’s a massive 9.4-liter engine, naturally aspirated, with no turbo or supercharger in sight.

This car is about pure, mechanical performance. It’s expected to produce over 750 horsepower and 720 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful naturally aspirated Corvette Chevy has ever built.

In a world shifting toward hybrids and EVs, the SS 572 feels like a loud, unapologetic reminder of what driving used to be. And that’s what makes it so important.

When the 2026 Corvette SS 572 Will Be Available

Chevy officially announced the SS 572 at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show. Production is set to begin in the final quarter of 2025, with customer deliveries expected to roll out by spring 2026.

This will be a limited-run model. Only 2,026 units will be made worldwide, a number that marks both the release year and the exclusivity of this beast. Pre-orders are expected to begin in late 2025 through select Chevrolet performance dealerships.

How the 2026 Corvette SS 572 Works – Powertrain and Performance Explained

The heart of the SS 572 is its massive V8, based on the iconic ZZ572 crate engine. But this isn’t a direct lift from the past. Chevy has updated it with modern components forged internals, variable valve timing, and direct injection help this engine deliver big power while maintaining reliability.

Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the SS 572 is built for both drag-strip dominance and street driveability. Launch control comes standard, and it rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just under 3.2 seconds.

Here’s a breakdown of the key specs:

Specification	Details
Engine	9.4L (572 cu in) V8
Horsepower	750+ hp
Torque	720+ lb-ft
Transmission	8-speed dual-clutch
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
0–60 mph	3.2 seconds
Top Speed	Estimated 215 mph

This isn’t just about going fast in a straight line. The SS 572 includes magnetic ride control, a track-tuned suspension, carbon ceramic brakes, and an upgraded cooling system to keep things running smooth under pressure.

What Makes the SS 572 Stand Out from Other Corvettes

The 2026 SS 572 isn’t just an engine upgrade. Chevy gave it a bold design makeover that reflects its aggressive personality.

The front fascia is wider and lower, with massive air intakes to feed that huge engine. Unique LED headlights, a vented hood, flared fenders, and a sculpted rear diffuser set it apart from the standard C8.

The rear end features quad exhaust tips and a functional ducktail spoiler for added downforce. Special badging and limited-edition paint options including a deep metallic black with red accents make sure everyone knows this isn’t your average Vette.

Inside, the SS 572 features Alcantara and leather seats, a digital gauge cluster with custom SS animations, and lightweight trim pieces. A plaque on the dashboard shows the build number of your car, adding that exclusive feel.

Why Chevy Built the SS 572 Now

The timing might seem odd launching a big-block muscle car in the middle of an EV revolution. But that’s exactly why Chevy did it.

This car is a celebration of internal combustion. It’s for those who still believe in the sound of a roaring V8 and the feel of rear-wheel power. It’s for collectors, weekend racers, and fans who know this kind of machine may not come around again.

With emissions regulations tightening globally, this might be one of the last high-displacement, naturally aspirated muscle cars to hit the market. Chevy wanted to go out with a bang.

Best Features That Take the 2026 SS 572 Over the Top

1. Massive 9.4L naturally aspirated V8
2. Carbon ceramic brake system
3. Adaptive magnetic ride suspension
4. Performance data recorder with track analysis
5. Custom launch control settings
6. Limited to 2,026 individually numbered units
7. Retro-inspired digital dash animations and interior trim

These features make the SS 572 not just powerful, but also refined and driver-focused.

Common Myths About the Corvette SS 572 and the Truth

Myth	Reality
It’s only for the drag strip	It’s fully track-capable with suspension and brake upgrades
It will be uncomfortable for daily use	Features multiple drive modes including Comfort
It’s just a modified Z06	The SS 572 has a unique powertrain and styling
It’s a concept car	This is a confirmed production model launching in 2026

Conclusion

The 2026 Corvette SS 572 is a bold, loud, and unapologetically powerful send-off for the muscle car era. It’s not trying to be subtle or efficient. It’s built to make a statement that pure V8 performance still has a place in the world, even as electrification takes over.

With only 2,026 units available, this car is going to be rare, desirable, and likely a future collector’s gem. If you love the sound of a roaring V8 and miss the days of high-horsepower muscle machines, the SS 572 might just be your dream car.

FAQs

When will the 2026 Corvette SS 572 be available?
Deliveries are expected to begin in early 2026, with production starting in late 2025.

How powerful is the engine in the SS 572?
It’s a 9.4-liter V8 producing over 750 horsepower and 720 lb-ft of torque.

Is this Corvette street legal?
Yes, it’s fully street legal despite its track-level performance specs.

How many units will be made?
Only 2,026 units will be built worldwide, making it a highly limited model.

Will there be a manual transmission option?
No manual is planned. The SS 572 comes with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic for optimal performance.