Chevrolet is having a moment—and Car and Driver just confirmed it. In the magazine’s annual Editors’ Choice Awards, eight Chevy vehicles earned top honors, proving once again that the bowtie brand delivers across performance, practicality, and value.
Every year, Car and Driver puts more than 450 vehicles through rigorous testing, scoring each on a 10-star scale. Only those earning at least nine stars make the Editors’ Choice list. For 2026, that elite group includes 131 vehicles total, and Chevrolet claimed an impressive share of them.
The Chevrolet Editors’ Choice Winners
Here are the Chevy vehicles that rose to the top this year:
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
- Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
- Chevrolet Corvette Z06
- Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (new to the list)
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Chevrolet Trax
From compact crossovers to full-size SUVs and world-class sports cars, the list highlights just how wide Chevrolet’s lineup really is.
Performance Icons and Everyday All-Stars
The Corvette family once again dominated the performance conversation. The Stingray, E-Ray, Z06, and the newly recognized ZR1 show how Chevrolet continues to push the limits of American sports cars, with multiple powertrains and personalities that appeal to a broad range of enthusiasts.
At the same time, vehicles like the Trax, Tahoe, and Suburban prove that Chevy’s strength isn’t limited to the track. These models blend practicality, comfort, and everyday usability—exactly what many shoppers are looking for.
In fact, several of these Editors’ Choice winners also landed spots on Car and Driver’s 2026 10Best Cars and SUVs lists, including the Chevrolet Trax, Corvette Stingray, Corvette E-Ray, Tahoe, and Suburban.
Why Editors’ Choice Matters
As Car and Driver Editor-in-Chief Tony Quiroga puts it, the Editors’ Choice Awards are designed to help overwhelmed shoppers focus on the very best vehicles on the market. Any model that earns this recognition is considered worthy of serious consideration—and Chevrolet delivered eight of them.
A Strong Signal for Chevy’s Future
These awards underscore Chevrolet’s ability to meet drivers where they are, whether that means affordable transportation, family-ready SUVs, or high-performance machines. With GM continuing to invest in new technologies like advanced battery chemistries, software-defined vehicle architectures, and enhanced driver-assist features, the momentum behind Chevrolet shows no signs of slowing down.
Bottom line: if you’re shopping for a new vehicle in 2026, odds are there’s an Editors’ Choice–winning Chevy that fits your life—and your driveway.
GM’s Electrify America Network
If you’ve ever road-tripped in an EV, you know this truth: charging convenience can make or break the experience. Chevy gets that—and it’s why GM is rolling out a more streamlined public charging experience that puts simplicity front and center for Chevy EV drivers.
One App. Thousands of Chargers.
Chevy drivers can now find, charge, and pay at more than 5,000 Electrify America fast-charging stations—including Hyper-Fast 350-kW chargers—directly through the myChevrolet app. No extra apps. No juggling accounts. Just open the app that’s already on your phone and you’re good to go. This integration with Electrify America creates a unified charging experience designed to reduce friction and make EV ownership easier, especially on longer trips.
Charging Without the Guesswork
With Electrify America built right into the myChevrolet app, drivers can head to the Public Charging section and instantly see supported charging stations across the U.S. Whether you’re commuting across town or crossing state lines, everything you need is in one place.
From there, Chevy EV drivers can:
- Find nearby chargers with real-time availability
- Plan routes and identify charging stops along the way
- Monitor charging sessions as they happen
- Pay directly in the app, no card swipe or third-party login required
It’s all about saving time—and mental energy—when you’re on the road.
Part of a Bigger Charging Ecosystem
This Electrify America integration is just one piece of GM’s broader charging strategy. Across the U.S. and Canada, GM EV drivers now have access to more than 250,000 public charging stations, giving Chevy owners flexibility and confidence wherever they drive.
As Wade Sheffer, GM Energy’s vice president, put it, the goal isn’t just more chargers—it’s better public charging experiences. And that means collaboration, smart software, and removing unnecessary barriers for drivers.
Electrify America agrees. With more Hyper-Fast chargers available nationwide, Chevy EV drivers get a reliable, seamless charging experience designed to keep them moving toward the places that matter.
Built for the Way EV Drivers Actually Travel
As Chevy continues to expand its EV lineup, GM Energy remains focused on innovation and partnerships that support real-world driving needs. Streamlining public charging isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a quality-of-life improvement for anyone making the switch to electric.
One-of-One 2026 Corvette ZR1X Sells for $2.6 Million
Some cars are fast. Some cars are rare. And then there are cars that mean something. At the 2026 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction, Chevrolet proved that performance and purpose can share the same lane. A bespoke, one-of-one 2026 Corvette ZR1X Stars & Steel Edition crossed the block on Saturday, January 24, selling for an incredible $2.6 million—with 100% of the hammer price benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. That’s not just a big number. That’s real impact for America’s heroes.
A Corvette Like No Other
This wasn’t just any ZR1X. Inspired by Chevrolet’s Stars & Steel collection celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States, the car is based on the fastest American production vehicle to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife—and then taken several notches higher.
The one-off ZR1X features:
- A hand-painted Dark Satin Steel exterior crafted by GM’s Design Fabrication experts
- Bold blue accents throughout, including brake calipers and a carbon aero rear wing
- A stunning Santorini Blue interior
- And the kind of bespoke details that guarantee it will never be duplicated
In short: a future icon the moment it rolled onto the stage.
Performance With a Purpose
Every dollar from the sale is going directly to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting their mission to:
- Provide mortgage-free homes for Gold Star families and fallen first responder families with young children
- Build custom smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders
- Offer housing and services for homeless veterans
It’s a mission that deeply aligns with Chevrolet’s celebration of American pride and service.
“To honor those who serve, Chevrolet created a 1-of-1 edition of America’s quickest production car, the Corvette ZR1X,” said Scott Bell, Vice President of Global Chevrolet. “We’re proud to know the winning bid will go directly to supporting first responders and veterans in need across the United States.”
A Legendary Buyer, A Historic Experience
The winning bidder? Rick Hendrick, Chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group and owner of Hendrick Motorsports—no stranger to rare metal or meaningful philanthropy. Along with the car, Hendrick will receive:
- The chance to build the twin-turbo V8 engine powering his ZR1X
- The first-ever Corvette delivery at the GM Design Dome
- A curated collection of exclusive memorabilia
Yes, that’s right—the beloved Build Your Own Engine experience is officially back.
The Return of “Build Your Own Engine”
Last seen in 2019, Chevrolet’s factory-guided engine build program makes its return with the ZR1X—and it’s expanding. Starting this spring, customers ordering a Corvette Z06, ZR1, or ZR1X can opt into the experience, assembling and signing the V8 engine that will power their car alongside master builders at the Performance Build Center in Bowling Green. Chevrolet now stands alone as the only automaker offering customers this level of hands-on craftsmanship.
A Longstanding Commitment to Those Who Serve
This auction is just the latest chapter in Chevrolet and GM’s long partnership with Tunnel to Towers. Over the past 12 years, the collaboration has raised more than $11.6 million for wounded veterans—now climbing even higher.
“This incredible gift will help us continue delivering on our promise to never forget the families of our fallen heroes,” said Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of Tunnel to Towers. “Through the generosity of Chevrolet, Barrett-Jackson, and this winning bidder, we carry forward that spirit of selfless service.”
With this sale, Chevrolet has now raised $15.5 million through Barrett-Jackson charity auctions via eighth-generation Corvettes alone.
More Than a Car—A Statement
For over 70 years, Corvette has symbolized American performance. This one-of-one ZR1X proves it can also symbolize gratitude, sacrifice, and purpose. As Barrett-Jackson Chairman and CEO Craig Jackson summed it up: owning this car isn’t just about rarity—it’s about making a difference. And at $2.6 million raised for America’s heroes, that difference is already being felt.
Essential Tips For Winter Driving Safety
Winter can transform even the most familiar roads into unpredictable hazards. Snow, ice, and freezing rain reduce traction, visibility, and reaction time, making driving more dangerous. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or heading out for a winter adventure, staying safe behind the wheel requires preparation, caution, and awareness. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate winter weather safely.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter
A safe winter journey starts before you even hit the road. Take these steps to make sure your car is ready for the season:
- Tires: Ensure your tires have adequate tread and consider using winter tires, which provide better traction in snow and ice.
- Battery: Cold temperatures reduce battery efficiency. Have your battery tested if it’s over three years old.
- Fluids: Keep your windshield washer fluid full with winter-grade solution, and ensure antifreeze levels are sufficient.
- Lights: Check that all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are working properly. Visibility is crucial in winter conditions.
- Emergency Kit: Carry essentials like a shovel, ice scraper, flashlight, blanket, warm clothing, and non-perishable snacks in case of an emergency.
Adjust Your Driving for Winter Conditions
Even experienced drivers need to modify their habits in winter weather:
- Slow Down: Snow and ice reduce traction. Driving slower gives you more time to react and reduces stopping distance.
- Increase Following Distance: Give yourself at least 6-8 seconds of space between you and the car ahead.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Abrupt braking, accelerating, or sharp turns can cause your vehicle to skid.
- Use Low Gears: On slippery slopes, low gears can help maintain traction and prevent skidding.
- Brake Gently: If your vehicle has ABS, press firmly and steadily; if not, pump brakes gently to avoid locking the wheels.
Handle Skids Safely
Skids are common in winter, but how you respond can make all the difference:
- Rear-Wheel Skid: Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go and avoid overcorrecting.
- Front-Wheel Skid: Ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go; do not brake hard.
- Black Ice: If you suspect black ice, reduce speed and avoid sudden movements. Black ice often looks like wet pavement.
Plan Your Route and Travel Time
- Check Weather Reports: Avoid driving in severe winter storms if possible.
- Give Yourself Extra Time: Rushed driving is more dangerous in slippery conditions.
- Know Alternate Routes: Some roads may be closed or impassable; have a backup route ready.
Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions
- Limit Distractions: Keep your focus on the road, especially in low-visibility conditions.
- Watch for Pedestrians: Snow and ice can make stopping distances longer, so anticipate where people might be crossing.
- Stay Calm: Panicking in slippery conditions can lead to oversteering or abrupt braking.
Consider Public Transport When Conditions Are Severe
Sometimes, the safest option is not to drive at all. If roads are icy or visibility is poor, using public transportation or delaying travel is better than risking an accident.
Visit McElwain Chevrolet
If you are in need of new tires, a battery test, or anything else to ensure you and your vehicle make it through the winter, visit McElwain Chevrolet and let us set you up for safety!
Big news from the performance-car world: the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has officially been named Road & Track Magazine’s 2026 Performance Car of the Year, and honestly… it’s hard to argue with the verdict.
Road & Track’s Performance Car of the Year (PCOTY) award isn’t about price tags or brand cachet. It’s a pure, no-nonsense test of driving excellence. Every contender gets pushed hard—on track and on real roads—and only the most complete performance machine walks away with the trophy. This year, after an exhaustive evaluation, the ZR1 didn’t just win—it dominated.
A Legacy of Greatness Gets Even Bigger
The Corvette nameplate is no stranger to PCOTY glory. Over the years, Road & Track has honored:
- The C7 Stingray in 2014
- The C7 ZR1 in 2019
- The C8 Z06 in 2023
Now, the C8 Corvette ZR1 adds another chapter to that legacy, making Corvette the winningest model in Performance Car of the Year history. No other car has managed more than two wins—Corvette now has four.
As Road & Track Director of Reviews Mike Duff put it:
“Performance Car of the Year is a test of driving, not value, but by any measure, the Corvette is an astonishing bargain. It also takes the Corvette dynasty to a whole new plane of awesomeness.”
That’s high praise from people who drive the world’s best cars for a living.
1,064 Horsepower of American Muscle Refined
At the heart of the ZR1 is a monster: a 1,064-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8, the most powerful V8 ever produced in America by an American automaker. Pair that with the available ZTK Performance Package—which adds high-downforce aerodynamics, ultra-high-performance tires, and carbon-ceramic brakes—and you’ve got a car that’s just as happy hunting lap records as it is carving canyon roads. And that balance matters. PCOTY testing isn’t just about lap times.
Tested Where It Matters
For 2026, Road & Track took contenders to Thunderhill Raceway Park in Northern California, wringing out every ounce of performance on track. From there, the cars headed onto the legendary public roads of Napa Valley, where ride quality, approachability, and driver confidence matter just as much as raw speed. That dual-purpose brilliance is exactly what the ZR1 was designed to deliver.
According to Chris Barber, Lead Development Engineer for the ZR1, “We aimed to make this car a standout—fun to drive, incredibly fast, yet comfortable and approachable. The ZR1 faced stiff competition, and I’m very proud that it stood out.”
A Winning Streak That’s Hard to Ignore
The PCOTY award is just the latest accolade in what’s becoming a serious victory lap for the ZR1. Recently, the car has:
- Been named TopGear.com’s 2026 U.S. Supercar of the Year
- Won Hagerty’s Ultimate Lap Battle
- Set six lap records at major North American racetracks
- Achieved a 233-mph top track speed, the fastest Corvette ever
On top of that, both the ZR1 and the hybrid ZR1X now hold the distinction of being the fastest American-manufacturer cars ever to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Yeah. That Nürburgring.
Raising the Bar Again
Road & Track posed a tantalizing question: Can Chevrolet raise the bar any higher? The answer arrived almost immediately in the form of the electrified, all-wheel-drive ZR1X. With 1,250 combined horsepower, it’s now the quickest-accelerating American production car ever, capable of:
- 0–60 mph in under 2 seconds
- A quarter-mile time under 9.0 seconds
If that’s not raising the bar, it’s launching it into orbit.
Final Thoughts
Winning Road & Track’s 2026 Performance Car of the Year cements the Corvette ZR1’s place among the all-time greats—not just as a supercar slayer, but as a deeply engineered driver’s car. It’s ferocious, approachable, and relentlessly fast, all while continuing a Corvette tradition that shows no signs of slowing down.
Every once in a while, an automaker drops a number so absurd it makes you reread the press release just to confirm you didn’t imagine it. That’s exactly what Chevrolet did this week with the 2026 Corvette ZR1X.
Here’s the headline that matters: 0–60 mph in 1.68 seconds. Yes, 1.68. On factory tires, pump gas, and a street-legal calibration. Let that sit for a second.
Not a Lab Trick—A Real Drag Strip Run
Chevy didn’t cherry-pick conditions or hide behind vague claims. The ZR1X ran these numbers at US 131 Motorsports Park in Michigan, on a prepped surface, using:
- Standard Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires
- Default aero setup
- Optional carbon-fiber wheels
- 93-octane pump gas
- Stock launch control
And it didn’t just blast to 60 mph. On the same run, the ZR1X ripped through the quarter mile in 8.675 seconds at 159 mph, needing less than 100 feet to hit 60 and pulling a face-melting 1.75 g of acceleration. Chevy even dropped the official track slip, just in case anyone thought this was marketing math.
Hypercar Performance, Corvette Money
To put this into perspective, Chevy casually lined up the ZR1X against some of the fastest and most expensive cars on Earth:
- Rimac Nevera R – $2.5M
- Pininfarina Battista – $2.2M
- Bugatti Tourbillon – $4.6M
- Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut – $3.4M
And yet here’s the wild part: the Corvette ZR1X starts at around $209,700. That means this American-built Chevy is running neck-and-neck with multi-million-dollar hypercars—and in some cases beating them to 60—while costing a fraction of the price. The only real caveat is that the Corvette’s numbers were set on a prepped surface, so it’s not a perfectly equal comparison. Still… come on. This is ridiculous in the best way.
Even Without Prep, It’s Still Insane
If you’re thinking, “Sure, but what about real-world conditions?” Chevy’s got you covered.
On an unprepped surface, equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, the ZR1X still clocks:
- 0–60 mph in 1.89 seconds
- Quarter mile in 8.99 seconds
Those are numbers that would’ve sounded like science fiction not that long ago.
How Chevy Pulled This Off
The magic lies in the ZR1X’s hybrid setup. Chevy essentially took:
- The electric AWD system from the E-Ray
- The 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 from the ZR1
Then turned everything up to eleven. The result is a total system output of 1,250 horsepower, with electric torque filling in the gaps and all-wheel drive clawing the car off the line like it’s being fired from a railgun. Corvette development engineer Stefan Frick handled the driving duties, running multiple back-to-back quarter-mile passes—every single one under 8.8 seconds. Consistency matters, and the ZR1X clearly has it.
The Quickest Corvette Ever… and Maybe More
MotorTrend’s current quickest-tested car is the Lucid Air Sapphire, with a 1.88-second 0–60 and a 9.02-second quarter mile. Based on Chevy’s numbers, the ZR1X looks poised to steal that crown—and OEM figures are usually conservative. Which means things could get even spicier once independent testing starts.
The Deal of the Century?
The ZR1X is lining up to go toe-to-toe with future exotics like the McLaren W1 and Ferrari F80—cars that will almost certainly demand seven-figure price tags. Meanwhile, the Corvette rolls in at just over $200K, waving an American flag and casually humiliating hypercars.
If you already have a ZR1X on order, consider this your early holiday gift. If you don’t… well, Chevy just made the strongest argument yet that the modern Corvette isn’t just a sports car bargain—it’s one of the fastest production cars the world has ever seen.
A Look at the Chevy Silverado Color Palette
When people talk about the Chevy Silverado, the conversation usually starts with horsepower, towing capacity, or how well it handles a job site or a weekend adventure. But let’s be honest—color matters. A lot. The Silverado’s color palette isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a lineup that lets you telegraph personality, purpose, and attitude before the engine even turns over.
Whether you want subtle and classic or bold and head-turning, Chevy’s Silverado colors cover the full spectrum. Let’s dig in.
The Classics: Timeless and Tough
Chevrolet always makes sure the Silverado looks right in the colors that never go out of style. These are the shades you’ll see on job sites, in driveways, and rolling down the highway year after year.
- Black – Clean, aggressive, and endlessly cool. Black gives the Silverado a serious presence and pairs perfectly with chrome or blacked-out trim.
- Summit White – A Silverado staple. It’s practical, sharp, and highlights the truck’s lines without screaming for attention.
- Silver and Gray tones – Metallic silvers and darker grays bring a modern, industrial vibe. They’re low-maintenance, professional, and incredibly popular for a reason.
These colors are about longevity. If you want your truck to look just as good five years from now as it does today, this category delivers.
Earthy and Rugged: Built for the Outdoors
For drivers who see the Silverado as a passport to the outdoors, Chevy’s earth-inspired colors hit the sweet spot.
- Dark greens and deep blues – These shades feel right at home on forest roads, lakeside campsites, or mountain trails.
- Brown and bronze hues – Subtle but distinctive, these colors lean into the Silverado’s rugged DNA without being flashy.
These tones tend to emphasize capability. They say, “Yes, this truck works hard—but it also disappears into the wilderness when needed.”
Bold Choices: Where Personality Shows Up
Now we get to the fun part. Chevy knows not every Silverado owner wants to blend in, and that’s where the brighter colors come into play.
- Red options – Always a favorite, reds bring energy and confidence. They highlight body contours and look especially sharp in sunlight.
- Bright blues – Eye-catching without going overboard, these shades strike a balance between sporty and refined.
And then there’s the standout…
Tangier Orange: The Showstopper
Tangier Orange is not here to be subtle—and that’s exactly the point.
This vibrant, high-energy color transforms the Silverado from “nice truck” to “what is that?” It’s bold without being cartoonish, and it plays incredibly well with black wheels, dark trim, and aggressive off-road packages.
Tangier Orange does a few things really well:
- Highlights the Silverado’s muscular lines – The color accentuates fender flares and body contours.
- Signals confidence – This is a color chosen by someone who knows what they want.
- Stands out anywhere – Parking lot, trailhead, or job site—this truck won’t get lost in the crowd.
It’s not for everyone, and Chevy knows that. But for drivers who want their Silverado to make a statement before it ever moves an inch, Tangier Orange absolutely delivers.
Choosing the Right Color for Your Silverado
At the end of the day, the best Silverado color depends on how you use your truck—and how you want it to feel.
- Want timeless and resale-friendly? Stick with black, white, or silver.
- Planning outdoor adventures? Earth tones feel right at home.
- Want attention and attitude? Tangier Orange (or a bold red or blue) is calling your name.
The Silverado’s color palette proves that capability doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you want understated strength or unapologetic flair, Chevy gives you the freedom to make the truck your own—right down to the paint.
And if you go Tangier Orange? Yeah… people are going to notice.
When Car and Driver drops its annual 10Best list, the automotive world pays attention. After weeks of intense testing, comparison drives, and editor debates, only 10 vehicles per category make the cut. For 2026, Chevrolet didn’t just show up—it showed out.
Three very different Chevy nameplates earned 10Best honors this year: the legendary Corvette, the smart and affordable Trax, and the massively capable Tahoe/Suburban. Different segments, different price points, same result: best in class.
Corvette: A 10Best Icon That Keeps Raising the Bar
The Chevrolet Corvette continues to be one of the most decorated vehicles in Car and Driver history. For 2026, both the Corvette Stingray and Corvette E-Ray landed on the 10Best Cars list, marking the 10th consecutive year a Corvette model has earned the honor.
That’s not just impressive—that’s historic. Overall, the Corvette has now racked up 27 10Best wins over the award’s 43-year history.
Editors once again praised the Corvette for delivering world-class performance at a price that undercuts many of its exotic competitors. The E-Ray’s electrified all-wheel-drive setup adds another layer of capability, proving the Corvette formula can evolve without losing its soul.
Chevrolet Trax: Affordable, Practical, and Still a Winner
At the opposite end of the spectrum sits the Chevrolet Trax, which continues its run on the 10Best Trucks and SUVs list. Redesigned for the 2024 model year, the Trax made waves by delivering standout design, interior space, and refinement—without the premium price tag.
Starting at $21,900, the Trax earned praise from Car and Driver editors for its:
- Exceptional value
- Everyday practicality
- Surprising level of comfort and polish
It first cracked the 10Best list in 2024, and defending that title for 2026 proves Chevy’s smallest SUV is doing something very right.
Tahoe and Suburban: Full-Size Excellence, Recognized
Rounding out Chevrolet’s 10Best sweep are the Tahoe and Suburban, which earned spots on the 2026 10Best Trucks and SUVs list following significant updates.
These full-size SUVs impressed editors with their:
- Broad capability for families, towing, and road trips
- Refined interiors and available luxury features
- Versatility across trims and use cases
Few vehicles can balance size, comfort, technology, and real-world utility the way the Tahoe and Suburban do—and Car and Driver took notice.
One Brand, Three Segments, Total Dominance
From a mid-engine sports car to an entry-level SUV to full-size family haulers, Chevrolet’s 2026 10Best wins highlight something important: excellence doesn’t live in just one corner of the lineup. Whether you’re chasing lap times, stretching your budget, or packing up the whole crew, Chevy has a vehicle that’s officially among the best you can buy. And when Car and Driver says you’re 10Best? That’s about as real as it gets.
In a landmark moment for American performance cars, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has been named the 2026 U.S. Supercar of the Year by TopGear.com in its inaugural U.S. Car Awards. This accolade isn’t just another trophy — it’s a validation that American engineering can compete at the highest levels of global performance automotive culture.
A Supercar Built to Impress
The Corvette ZR1 represents the cutting edge of Chevrolet’s performance ambitions. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter LT7 V8, it delivers a staggering 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful V8 ever assembled in the U.S. by an American automaker.
When equipped with performance-focused aero and suspension packages — such as the ZTK Performance and Carbon Fiber Aero options — it generates over 1,200 pounds of downforce at speed, giving it race-car levels of grip while still remaining road-legal.
Why It Took the Top Spot
For the Supercar of the Year category, TopGear.com editors and testers pitted the ZR1 directly against performance rivals like the Ford Mustang GTD — and while both cars impressed, the ZR1’s lap times and sheer performance potential made it the clear victor. According to Top Gear Editor-in-Chief Jack Rix, the ZR1’s blend of power, speed, and engagement was “simply irresistible.”
This isn’t just track bragging rights — it’s recognition from one of the most respected voices in automotive journalism, known for unbiased and thorough testing.
American Performance
This award marks more than just a win for Chevrolet — it’s a moment of pride for American automotive engineering. Traditionally, discussions of supercars have been dominated by European marques like Ferrari, McLaren, and Porsche. The ZR1’s accolade reshapes expectations, showing that a U.S.-built machine can stand toe-to-toe with the world’s best.
And since this was the first-ever U.S.-focused awards from Top Gear, it sets a benchmark for future American high-performance vehicles to chase.
Corvette’s Growing Legacy
The ZR1’s recognition comes amid a broader surge in performance acclaim for Chevrolet and GM:
- Its engine architecture has earned accolades in other awards circuits.
- Track performance figures — including record-setting runs — have turned heads globally.
This latest honor further cements the Corvette’s evolution from its muscle car roots into a true global performance contender.
When the checkered flag dropped at Phoenix Raceway to close out the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, it wasn’t just Kyle Larson celebrating. With Larson’s victory in the No. 5 Chevrolet and his second career Cup Series Drivers’ Championship, Chevrolet clinched its fifth consecutive NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturers’ Championship — another milestone in a streak of dominance that shows no signs of slowing down.
That victory capped a banner year for Team Chevy across all three of NASCAR’s national series. In the Xfinity Series, Jesse Love drove the No. 2 Chevrolet to both the Drivers’ Championship and Chevrolet’s ninth straight Manufacturers’ title — underscoring the brand’s deep bench of talent and engineering excellence.
A Winning Formula Built on Teamwork
For Eric Warren, GM’s Vice President of Global Motorsport Competition, Chevrolet’s success isn’t the result of luck: it’s the outcome of a deliberate strategy that began several years ago.
“The momentum started in 2020 when we created GM Motorsports,” Warren explains. “The idea was to provide resources — especially in simulation — for all our partner teams so as not to duplicate efforts.”
That collaborative model unites powerhouse organizations like Hendrick Motorsports, Richard Childress Racing, and Trackhouse Racing under one banner. Though they’re fierce rivals on Sundays, they share information, data, and insights to keep Team Chevy collectively ahead.
“It’s like kindergarten recess sometimes. Everyone wants to go in a different direction,” Warren laughs. “But once you build momentum, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. You attract better people, better drivers, and better teams.”
Investing in the Future
That shared vision also allows Chevrolet to think long-term, not just about the next race, but the next generation.
“If you’re fighting fires, you can’t invest in the future,” Warren says. “Our model allows us to look further down the road.”
In NASCAR’s Truck and Xfinity Series, where teams often operate on tighter budgets, Chevrolet’s centralized support provides a crucial edge. “If you look at Xfinity, a large part of why there’s a lot of Chevy teams is nobody else is able to quite scale the support that we provide,” Warren notes.
Chevrolet’s commitment extends beyond engineering to driver development. By scouting talent from across global motorsport, GM identifies young racers with the potential to succeed on NASCAR’s biggest stage. “Because of all the series we race in, we get exposed to talent at a much younger age,” Warren explains. “We can put drivers in different situations to understand who has the skills to thrive in NASCAR.”
Always in the Fight
Even when rival manufacturers bring faster cars to the track, Warren credits Chevrolet’s depth of talent and culture of collaboration for keeping the Bowtie brand in contention. “The talent and resiliency of our teams and drivers means that Chevrolet is never out of the conversation,” he says.
Looking ahead to 2026, GM Motorsports is already building on its momentum. Warren points to continued development in aerodynamics for the Truck Series and long-term planning for Xfinity and Cup programs, which are all aimed at keeping Chevrolet on top.
“We’ve done our homework for a while here,” he says. “It’s exciting to have the resources, but also to have all the teams and the drivers believe in the approach and that makes it tough for others to duplicate.”
A Legacy of Excellence
From Larson’s Cup triumph to Love’s Xfinity breakthrough, 2025 showcased the strength of Chevrolet’s racing ecosystem. It’s a story of collaboration, innovation, and relentless drive and one that cements Chevrolet’s place as the gold standard in NASCAR performance.
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