The seventh generation Corvette, sporting the proud Stingray badge, will hit Europe and UK from autumn 2013. Featuring many upgrades, visually and technically, over the previous generation, the Stingray stands a good chance of becoming popular in the UK – even though it still suffers from a bad image over there.

In the UK they think of the Corvette as a brash and ostentatious American sports car made out of recycled plastic. It is just not cool enough for the classy Brits. Some of those arguments don’t hold water anymore about the new Stingray. Granted, it still has a cheesy design, but it’s become sophisticated. It uses carbon fiber body panels; a brand-new engine; many technology features; a well-made interior; and above all, the performance is now on the par with the best of what Europe has to offer.

The C7 Stingray is powered by a 6.2L LT1 V8 engine coupled with a 7-speed manual transmission with active rev matching. With 460 hp (343 kW) and 630 NM (465 lb-ft) of torque at the disposal of you right foot, 60 mph is met in under four seconds, while, potentially, you can get up to 26 mpg out of it.

The UK-spec Corvette Stingray comes with the Z51 performance pack as standard, which includes an aerodynamic body kit, electronic limited-slip differential, uprated suspension, revised gear ratio, larger wheels, and larger brakes. Also standard is Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch display screen.

Pricing for the 2014 Corvette Stingray starts at £61,495. Notable optional extras include: Metallic paint (£600), Tintcoat Paint (£1,000), Navigation System (£1,450) and Black Aluminium Wheels (£550).