The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe 3LT doesn’t try to fix what isn’t broken — and that’s exactly what makes it so good – all for a price you can’t beat. Now, several years into the eighth-generation Corvette’s run, the mid-engine sports car continues to refine what was already a groundbreaking formula without making a big deal out of it. For 2025, Chevrolet will leave most of the cars untouched. Instead, Chevrolet seems to focus on subtle tech enhancements and keep everything Corvette enthusiasts love right where it belongs.

My fully loaded 3LT test vehicle came equipped with the Z51 performance package and the coveted Z51 performance suspension with Magnetic Selective Ride Control. Also included was the coupe’s available Engine Appearance Package, giving a carbon-fiber-trimmed look under the rear hatch, complete with engine bay lighting and a spec plate. It’s those small touches that amplify the exotic-car vibes this Corvette naturally exudes, even if people like myself still don’t fully agree with the overall looks of the new Corvette. It’s still a legend in the eyes and minds of Corvette purists, and that’s okay with it being the definitive American sports car that lives up to supercar aspirations.

There’s no doubt that the Corvette Stingray C8 continues to impress is in how it blends outright performance with impressive livability. For one, the Magnetic Ride Control suspension remains a game-changer. It reads the road in real-time and adapts instantly, providing a plush, composed ride around town yet dials things up with a firmer disposition for twisty roads or an occasional track day. The Corvette’s ride quality is among the best of any modern sports car, period — regardless of price point — and that’s not hyperbole. It’s a car that continues to surprise new drivers who may have written off American sports cars in the past. Part of that ride ‘quality’ is what sells many on the new Corvette C8, which is elevated to new literal heights with the new Corvette Z06 and the furious 1,000-plus horsepower Corvette ZR1 capable of 233 mph. Still, even in the configuration of the Corvette C8 Stingray, you can hit 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, repeatedly, with a huge smile on your face because you spent a fraction of what others will on vehicles that match such performance.

Power in the Corvette C8 Stingray still comes from the familiar 6.2-liter naturally aspirated LT2 V8, pumping out 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque with the Z51 exhaust. The dual-clutch 8-speed transmission remains lightning-quick, delivering crisp, calculated shifts that make even the most spirited drives feel seamless. It’s a powertrain setup that’s both rewarding and approachable, even for the novice performance driver – part of what attracts so many to the Corvette now for over 70 years.

Inside, the 3LT trim makes no apologies for its luxury aspirations, considering the price point that starts around $68,300 before any fees or options. Opting for the 3LT and loading it up with just about every available option gives you premium leather, suede inserts, real metal accents, and well-bolstered GT2 8-way power carbon-fiber-back bucket seats that all create a cockpit that’s upscale without being overdone. The digital interface has seen some light updates over the years, mainly refining the infotainment system and enhancing customization options for drive modes. The My Mode and Z Mode continue to allow for a tailored driving experience, giving owners the ability to fine-tune their preferences for steering feel, suspension stiffness, throttle response, and even the exhaust sound. Part of such customization amplifies the Corvette’s value proposition for a car that’s already as nearly as configurable as many six-figure-plus supercars.

The clever front-lift system with memory functionality returns as a must-have option, sparing the splitter from steep driveways and low ramps. It remembers frequently used locations and automatically lifts the nose when needed — another subtle but deeply appreciated feature that makes this Corvette practical for daily use.

At its core, the 2025 Corvette Stingray Coupe 3LT is still the car that I fell in love with back in 2020, appreciating the remarkable engineering (for the money!) — and remaining just as thrilling into its fifth year of production. As sports cars continue to go hybrid, electric, and increasingly tech-heavy, the C8 Stingray remains a V8-powered purist’s dream that doesn’t punish you for wanting to drive it every day, both physically and in the wallet if you’re smart with your options selections. However, my fully loaded test vehicle reaches a larger number at its as-tested figure of $98,145.

Few cars offer this much performance, comfort, and curb appeal for the price. And even fewer do it with the style, sound, and soul of a Corvette.