If you’ve ever sat in a recent Chevrolet Corvette, you probably noticed something unusual – a row of climate control buttons sitting on a bridge next to the passenger seat. It was quirky, sure, but not exactly practical when you’re trying to adjust the air conditioning while driving. The good news? Chevrolet listened to feedback and completely redesigned the interior for 2026.

The most obvious change is moving those climate controls to a more logical spot – right below the main touchscreen where you’d expect them. It’s one of those changes that makes you wonder why it wasn’t done this way from the beginning.

 Bigger Screens, Better Technology

The 2026 Corvette doesn’t just fix old problems; it adds genuinely useful technology. The main infotainment screen jumps from 8 inches to 12.7 inches, giving you much more screen real estate for navigation, music, and vehicle settings. What’s really exciting is the Google built-in integration, which means you can download apps like Google Chrome and HBO Max directly to your car.

Think about it – you can actually stream movies or browse the internet while parked. It’s perfect for those long waits at charging stations or when you’re early for an appointment.

 A Second Screen That Actually Makes Sense

Chevrolet added a 6.6-inch auxiliary touchscreen on the driver’s side, opposite the main infotainment display. This isn’t just another screen for the sake of having more screens – it shows configurable information like trip data, G-force readings, tire pressure, and oil temperature. Having this information at a glance without diving into menus is incredibly practical for performance driving.

 Interior Changes That Matter to Real Drivers: Drive Mode Selection Gets Easier

One of the most frustrating aspects of the current Corvette was the drive mode selector – a wheel hidden under a wrist rest that was awkward to use. The 2026 model replaces this with a simple rocker switch right next to the gear selector. It’s the kind of change that makes daily driving much more pleasant.

Where the old drive mode wheel used to be, there’s now a wireless phone charging pad with a cover to keep your device secure. Finally, a place to put your phone that makes sense.

 Better Controls Where You Need Them

The volume knob is larger and features an illuminated base, making it easier to find and use without taking your eyes off the road. Even the cupholders got attention – they’re redesigned with ambient lighting and real aluminum accents in higher trim levels.

 New Color Options That Look Fantastic

Chevrolet introduced four new interior color schemes for 2026. The standout is the Santorini Blue, which brings a sophisticated look to the cabin. There’s also a new Jet Black suede option that covers nearly all interior surfaces, and you can customize it with colored stitching and seatbelts in Adrenaline Red, Santorini Blue, or Competition Yellow.

For those who want something truly unique, the Adrenaline Red interior option lets you mix seating – a racing-inspired red driver’s seat paired with a black passenger seat.

 Performance and Exterior Updates

The changes aren’t limited to the interior. The Performance Traction Management system gets a new PTM Pro mode that gives experienced drivers more control by turning off stability and traction control while keeping anti-lock brakes active.

Two new paint colors join the lineup – Roswell Green and Blade Silver – plus there’s a new asymmetrical center stripe option in Edge Red/Carbon Flash for those who want their Corvette to stand out even more.

 When Can You Get One?

The updates apply to all Corvette variants sold in Australia – the Stingray, Z06, and E-Ray. The ZR1 unfortunately won’t make it to Australian shores since it’s not produced in right-hand drive.

Chevrolet hasn’t announced exact timing for when these updated models will arrive in Australia, but given that the current generation launched here in 2022 and has been steadily growing in popularity (441 deliveries in 2024), it’s likely we’ll see the 2026 updates sometime in the next year.

These changes represent Chevrolet’s commitment to listening to customer feedback and making the Corvette more user-friendly without sacrificing its performance character. The interior updates address real-world usability concerns while adding modern technology that enhances both daily driving and track experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the 2026 Corvette cost more than the current model?

A: Chevrolet hasn’t announced pricing yet, but the additional technology and features will likely result in a modest price increase.

Q: Can I still get the current Corvette design?

A: The 2026 updates will apply to all new production, so the current interior design will be phased out.

Q: Does the Google integration work offline?

A: Some features require internet connectivity, but basic vehicle functions and navigation work independently.

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