2006 Chevy Corvette Review
2006 Chevy Corvette Review
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
+69
Used Corvette for sale
Appraise This CarChevrolet Corvette model years
Chevrolet Corvette types
- Coupe
- Convertible
- Z06
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Performance on par with the world's best sports cars, daily-driver livability, precision build quality, a performance bargain when compared to cars of similar capabilities.
Cons
- Interior still doesn't look like it belongs in a car of this caliber.
What’s new
Changes for the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette include a new six-speed automatic transmission, a smaller-diameter three-spoke steering wheel, a new automatic passenger-detecting sensor for the front-passenger airbag and XM Satellite Radio for the premium Bose audio system. For performance fanatics, there's also the new 505-horsepower Z06 model.
Edmunds says
The 2006 Chevrolet Corvette is a world-class performance machine that successfully blends excellent build quality and ergonomics with sexy styling and tremendous value for the dollar.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette 2dr Coupe (6.0L 8cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$263/mo for Corvette Base
Corvette Base
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
Debuting in 1953 at the General Motors Motorama in New York City, the Chevrolet Corvette has become one of the longest-running automotive nameplates in history. Although the beautifully styled original '53 was hardly a sports car with its modest six-cylinder engine and two-speed automatic, subsequent models slowly refined the Chevy Corvette into America's premier sports car.
The 1956 model featured revised bodywork and much improved handling thanks to legendary engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov, but it wasn't until the 1963 "Sting Ray" Corvette that it attained true sports car status. The 1970s weren't particularly kind to the Chevy Corvette because of tougher emissions requirements and fuel economy concerns. Improvement finally arrived in 1984. With its sleek, modern design and a fully removable targa top, the C4 (Corvette fourth generation) was a well-rounded performer, despite some initial problems with its "Cross-Fire" fuel injection system and bone-jarring suspension. A convertible version debuted in '86, while an ultrahigh-performance ZR-1 bowed in 1990. With 375 horsepower, the ZR-1 was one of the fastest cars in the world at the time.
In 1997, Chevrolet introduced the fifth-generation Corvette coupe to rave reviews. Stylistically, the C5 wasn't radical, but when it came to performance and refinement, there was no comparison. The standard LS-1 engine in '97 produced 345 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque. A one-piece, hydroformed frame made it stiffer and more capable in the corners than any Corvette before it, and it even had a sizable luggage area beneath the rear hatch. A convertible model debuted a year later, followed by a non-targa roofed hardtop a year after that. Even bigger news came in 2001 when the high-performance Z06 model was reborn (the name originates from an option package on second-generation Corvettes) for enthusiasts willing to sacrifice a little ride quality for all-out performance.
The Chevrolet Corvette was redesigned once again for 2005 and thus designated the C6. Underhood lies a 400-hp LS-2 V8 mated to a standard six-speed manual tranny. The C6 has exposed headlamps -- a design feature not seen on a Vette since 1962. Three suspension levels are available, including a setup with Magnetic Ride Control and a Z51 package with upgraded brakes, suspension components and transmission gearing. Ride and handling are exceptional, regardless of which suspension package you choose. A convertible model is also available, and can be equipped with a slick power top. The legendary Z06 returns for 2006, boasting a 7.0-liter V8 that cranks out 505 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. A myriad of performance-minded revisions grace the suspension and braking systems, and even the exterior styling gets a few tweaks. Whichever model you choose, the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette is a thrilling performance machine that offers levels of refinement and value right up there with the very best in its class.
Performance & mpg
Base coupe and convertible Corvettes come with a 6.0-liter LS-2 V8, rated at 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. The Z06 boasts a stunning 505 hp and 470 lb-ft from its 7.0-liter V8. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard across the board, while a new six-speed automatic is a no-charge option for the base coupe and convertible. To help rein in the power on slippery surfaces, traction and stability control (Active Handling System) are standard equipment.
Safety
Four-wheel ventilated, antilock disc brakes are standard. Side-impact airbags are optional, but head curtain airbags are not available. The Vette features an Active Handling System (AHS) that can sense a loss of control and apply individual brakes or cut power to help maintain stability. This system has been well programmed to provide noninvasive assistance, and a performance driving mode gives the driver even more control at the track -- while maintaining a safety net.
Driving
Endless power from either snarling V8 combined with a tight suspension results in a sports car that never ceases to put a smile on your face. All three of the suspension packages deliver a compliant ride along with white-knuckled handling abilities. The 2006 Chevy Corvette is a comfortable touring car, as well as a world-class performance machine. The Z06 version is an unforgettable monster on the street.
Interior
With plenty of Chevrolet Corvette reviews stating that the previous generation's interior was not up to the standards of the rest of the car, the new car's designers made the fitment of a better interior a top priority. In some ways, they succeeded. The 2006 Chevrolet Corvette interior is indeed better in terms of material quality, and it has cupholders you can actually use. The gauges are great and the optional DVD navigation system is a nice upgrade, too. But compared to European sports cars, the Vette's interior quality and seat comfort are still a step behind.
2006 Chevrolet Corvette models
The composite-bodied Chevy Corvette comes in two forms: coupe (technically a hatchback) and convertible. The coupe features a removable roof panel for open-air cruising, though true wind-in-the-hair types will want to opt for the soft-top convertible. The coupe and convertible come well equipped with items such as xenon headlamps, leather seating and a removable roof panel. Notable options include the Magnetic Ride Control suspension, a Z51 performance handling package and a DVD-based navigation system. Coupes can be equipped with a transparent roof panel, or both the standard solid panel and the transparent panel. A versatile head-up display is available, along with driver-seat memory, a seven-speaker Bose audio system and automatic climate control. The Z06 maintains most of the regular Corvette coupe's features but gains a lightweight aluminum frame, wider wheels and tires, a more stiffly tuned suspension, better brakes and special seats.
2024 Chevy Traverse First Drive: Big Improvements Everywhere Except the Interior
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2006 Chevrolet Corvette.
5 star(91%)
4 star(7%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
123 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.38 out of 5 stars
Great Buy! New or Used!
TK, 04/26/2010
2006 Chevrolet Corvette 2dr Convertible (6.0L 8cyl 6M)
Bought a 2006 C6 Convertible used with 45k miles. Love driving this car more and more every time I take her out. Acceleration is very strong and handling is great. The power of this car should be respected but at the same time it is a wonderful daily driver that does not jerk you around. Ride quality is much better than expected but I can do without the noise from the Navigation system; … it sounds like a DVD / CD is constantly adjusting. Great over all value!
5 out of 5 stars
Power for the Daily Drive
deacon, 04/26/2008
2006 Chevrolet Corvette 2dr Coupe (6.0L 8cyl 6M)
Car has had no problems other than the removable roof panel that GM replaced at no charge. The car gets abour 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the freeway with comfort, power, and style. It has handled the dust and heat of the Arizona summers (the A?C works very quickly even in 110 degrees). Great daily driver.
5 out of 5 stars
Retired and in heaven!
FSTOLMAN, 07/20/2008
2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 2dr Coupe (7.0L 8cyl 6M)
I've owned a couple of Corvettes years ago and I enjoyed them. I'm retired now and couldn't avoid purchasing a two year old 2006 Z06 with 3,600 miles. Even my wonderful wife was so mezmerized with this car, she said buy it! The car is perfect and I am totally amazed with how great this Z06 is. Great looks, great power, fantastic handling and performance. I don't need to quote the stats. … The car is a thrill every time I get behind the wheel. When I just look at it in my garage, I feel like I am in heaven.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Idaho Z06
idaspud, 04/26/2009
2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 2dr Coupe (7.0L 8cyl 6M)
Acceleration is unbelievable, control and cornering is excellent, ride comfort is good, interior quality is mediocre at best. Gas mileage is great too, get around 32 on the highway. Most fun car to drive I have ever had and I'm 66.
2006 Corvette Highlights
Coupe
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $43,690 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $263/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 22.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Corvette include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
People who viewed this also viewed
Starting at $114,400 |
4.7 average Rating out of 15 reviews. |
Starting at $30,920 |
5.0 average Rating out of 5 reviews. |
Starting at $30,900 |
Related Used 2006 Chevrolet Corvette info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Used Toyota Highlander 2021 For Sale
- Used Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 2010 For Sale
- Used Toyota Avalon 2022 For Sale
- Used Lexus LX 450 2018
- Used Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 2022
Shop used vehicles in your area
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- Audi Q8 Tron
- 2023 Porsche Panamera
- 2023 BMW X3
- 2024 BMW X4
- 8 Series Coupe
- Audi TTS
- Ford Bronco 2023
- 2025 Nissan Murano News
- 2024 MINI Cooper
- 2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid
Research other models of Chevrolet
- SUV Trax Chevrolet
- Chevrolet Blazer 2023
- 06 Chevy Silverado 2500HD
- GM Traverse
- 2023 Chevrolet Camaro
- 2023 Corvette Stingray
- 2024 Corvette Stingray
- Chevrolet Tahoe V8
- Equinox SUV
- Camaro Cars For Sale
Research similar vehicles
- 2023 Audi A5
- 2023 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
- 2023 911
- Audi S5 2023
- 2023 Z4
- 2024 MINI Convertible
- 2023 Convertible
- 2023 Jaguar F-TYPE
- 2024 BMW 4 Series
- 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Other models
- Used Volkswagen Tiguan in Shirley, NY
- Used Volkswagen Atlas-Cross-Sport in Greensburg, PA
- New Lexus Es-300H for Sale in Thomasville, GA
- Used Honda Civic in Groton, CT
- Used Audi S7 in Orlando, FL
- New Porsche 911 for Sale in Westport, MA
- Used Audi RS-5 in Abilene, TX
- New Land-Rover Range-Rover-Velar for Sale in Southlake, TX
- Used Oldsmobile Intrigue in Wellington, FL
- Used Lexus NX-350H in Dallas, PA