Would Chevy Ever Build a High-Performance Corvette SUV?
Detroit News speculates what the Porsche-fighting project might look like.
On the surface, the idea of a Corvette SUV might seem ridiculous and unlikely. But you needn’t look any further than the state of the current luxury performance SUV market to discover otherwise. After all, Porsche’s best selling vehicle isn’t the 911, Boxster, or Panamera — it’s the Macan. And pretty much every other premium brand is jumping on the sporty utility wagon as well – even Lamborghini.
So it’s perfectly feasible to think that GM might consider building a more family friendly version of its iconic American sports car. So much so that The Detroit News conducted an extensive study into what one might actually be like. They spoke to former GM big wigs, enthusiasts, and analysts for insight. They even came up with a series of sketches, a list of specs, and a name: the Corvette XC7.
Experts agree that the XC7 Corvette SUV would have to share the car’s basic layout – front engine, rear drive (with optional all wheel drive), V8 power, and weight saving aluminum construction. At least two models should be offered – a base version and a more high performance one, perhaps a spin off of the Z06. This would be right in line with Porsche’s lineup, with a Turbo Cayenne slotting above the base model. And honestly, the current Corvette’s styling translates quite well to SUV form.
Naturally, there are a couple of large obstacles to overcome if GM really wants to build a Corvette SUV. Namely, the need for an entirely new, stand alone architecture and the possibility that it might cannibalize sales from Cadillac and GMC luxury ‘utes.
But on the other hand, it would open up an entirely new market for the automaker. A lot of people simply can’t justify the purchase of a two seat sports car, yet a four seat SUV makes a lot of sense. And as we’ve seen with Porsche, there’s a large and profitable market out there that’s just beginning to get tapped. So just go ahead and build it, GM. Let’s turn Corvette into a brand — not just a nameplate.
