No question about it, the new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray was the hit of the North American International Auto Show. But aside from the emotional reaction, we're only starting to realize why.
Chevy is taking it upscale.
"It was our intent to make the car more premium," says Kirk Bennion, exterior design manager for General Motors. We're weren't achieving what we (needed) on the luxury-sport side of Corvette."
Translation: The present-day Corvette is viewed too much as the sports car of the average guy. Nothing wrong with that, unless you want your iconic car to be considered a worthy competitor to the Porsche 911s of the world. The target customer for Corvette is a man in his 40s with a household income in excess of $150,000. Collectors — those with three to five 'Vettes of various vintages — are key buyers for them, as well.