2015: Inaugural production year introducing seventh-generation Corvette Z06 featuring supercharged LT4 6.2-liter V8 producing 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet torque—most powerful production Corvette engine configuration to date exceeding C6 ZR1's LS9 output. Launch specification offered Tremec seven-speed manual transmission with rev-matching technology or Hydramatic eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters and performance algorithm transmission programming, while carbon fiber construction including hood, roof panel, and removable targa top reduced weight versus Stingray base model. Optional Z07 Performance Package debuted combining Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, specific suspension tuning, and comprehensive Carbon Fiber Aero Package with aggressive front splitter, dive planes, and rear spoiler generating track-focused downforce levels. Initial customer deliveries revealed significant cooling system deficiencies during sustained track usage particularly affecting automatic transmission variants, with engine and transmission temperatures triggering protective power reduction modes limiting performance during high-load operation—issue generating widespread owner complaints, automotive journalist criticism, and eventual class-action lawsuit filings. Pricing started $78,995 excluding destination charges representing substantial value proposition versus European exotic competitors offering comparable performance at significantly higher acquisition costs.
2016: Continuation production year maintaining 2015 mechanical specification without addressing underlying cooling system deficiencies affecting track performance reliability. Overheating issues persisted particularly for automatic transmission variants due to closer gear ratios maintaining higher engine RPM during sustained circuit driving versus manual transmission's taller gearing allowing lower cruise RPM and reduced thermal loading. Owner community developed extensive aftermarket cooling modification ecosystem including upgraded radiators, auxiliary oil coolers, revised transmission pan designs increasing fluid capacity, electric water pump conversions, and custom ECU calibrations advancing cooling fan activation temperatures—comprehensive solutions often exceeding $10,000 investment beyond vehicle purchase price. GM faced mounting criticism from automotive media and owner advocacy groups regarding cooling inadequacies undermining Z06's track-oriented marketing positioning, while competitor vehicles including Porsche 911 GT3, Nissan GT-R, and Mercedes-AMG GT S demonstrated superior thermal management during identical testing conditions. Production volume remained strong driven by compelling performance-per-dollar value proposition and drag strip capabilities where brief acceleration runs avoided sustained thermal loading scenarios exposing cooling limitations. Model year represented nadir of C7 Z06 reputation prompting GM engineering commitment toward comprehensive thermal management redesign for upcoming 2017 model year.
2017: Major mid-cycle update addressing notorious cooling system deficiencies through comprehensive engineering revisions transforming track performance reliability. Primary modifications included raised hood center section improving radiator airflow, upgraded radiator core with increased heat dissipation capacity, revised intercooler cover geometry enhancing supercharger cooling efficiency, modified automatic transmission calibration reducing sustained high-RPM operation, and updated engine control programming advancing cooling fan activation temperatures and increasing fan speed under load conditions. Changes substantially reduced overheating incidents during track usage while maintaining identical 650-horsepower output and performance specifications versus problematic 2015-2016 models. Visual identification of cooling-improved 2017-onward models possible through raised hood profile creating subtle bulge versus flat hood geometry characterizing earlier production years. Market reception improved significantly following cooling updates with automotive journalists praising thermal management improvements during comparison testing against revised Porsche 911 Carrera GTS and McLaren 570S competitors. Used market values for 2017-onward Z06 variants commanded premium pricing versus depreciated 2015-2016 examples reflecting buyer preference for cooling-revised specifications, while early-year owners pursued aftermarket upgrades or warranty-covered factory retrofits addressing inherent design limitations.
2018: Penultimate production year continuing proven 2017-specification cooling improvements while refining interior technology and expanding color palette options. Model year introduced revised infotainment system with enhanced smartphone integration including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, upgraded 8-inch touchscreen display with improved response times, and revised interior trim materials elevating perceived quality versus earlier production focusing primarily on performance hardware. Mechanical specification remained unchanged maintaining LT4 supercharged powertrain and cooling system architecture validated through 2017 model year track testing demonstrating reliable thermal management during sustained high-load operation. Competition landscape intensified with introduction of Porsche 911 GT3 Touring, Mercedes-AMG GT R, and Audi R8 V10 Plus offering comparable performance with sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems and advanced aerodynamics, yet Z06 maintained price advantage exceeding $50,000 versus European competitors while delivering accessible 650-horsepower performance without exotic maintenance costs. Production allocation prioritized convertible variants and Z07 Performance Package configurations commanding highest transaction prices and strongest dealer profit margins supporting GM's performance vehicle profitability targets.
2019: Final production year concluding front-engine Corvette Z06 lineage spanning C5 (2001-2004), C6 (2006-2013), and C7 (2015-2019) generations before revolutionary mid-engine C8 architecture introduction fundamentally reimagining 66-year Corvette design philosophy. Model year featured limited special editions including heritage racing liveries, unique interior color combinations, and commemorative badging appealing to collectors anticipating front-engine configuration conclusion. Mechanical specification incorporated all cooling improvements validated through 2017-2018 production ensuring thermal reliability matching track-focused marketing positioning, while comprehensive 2019-specification radiator became retrofit standard for earlier model year warranty claims addressing persistent owner concerns. Production ceased July 2019 with final front-engine Corvette completed at Bowling Green Assembly before retooling for C8 manufacturing infrastructure requiring extensive facility modifications accommodating mid-engine assembly processes. Market reception celebrated C7 Z06's accessible supercar performance despite early-year cooling controversies, with final-year examples commanding premium pricing from enthusiasts preferring traditional front-engine layout over radical C8 mid-engine departure. Legacy established C7 Z06 as compelling performance value achieving exotic-car capabilities at attainable pricing, while contemporary used market values range $50,000-$75,000 depending on mileage, cooling system documentation, and Z07 Performance Package specification.