Muscle up: it's the Corvette Z06 C7.R

Meet the even-more-range-topping version of the range-topping Corvette Z06. This, fans of lairy, affordable muscle, is the Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition.

Essentially, it's a tarted up Z06 ‘Vette with the Z07 performance pack as standard, built in honour of the Corvettes that Chevy fields in the world's race scenes. If you've ever heard a racing Corvette, you'll know the essential rightness of that V8.

Sadly, this road-going C7.R doesn't get any engine upgrades, instead opting for stickiness and extra downforce. It comes with an adjustable front diffuser and adjustable rear spoiler, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, and a Brembo carbon ceramic braking system, which, says Chevy, "contributes to greater handling through reduced unsprung weight".

Alongside the adjustable aero and stickier tyres, there's also a carbon fibre bonnet and roof, composite floor panels and a dry sump oil system. Then comes the dressing: black wheels with yellow calipers, some graphics, a black leather interior with sueded microfiber accents, yellow contrast stitching, Corvette Racing sills, the choice of yellow or black body colours, and a numbered plaque.

Why? Because just 500 of these stickier, downforce-ier C7.R ‘Vettes will be built. As mentioned, the engine remains the same, but that's no bad thing. That all-new ‘LT4' supercharged 6.2-litre V8 produces a cool, clean 650bhp and 650lb ft of torque, which is sufficient. So sufficient, in fact, it'll go from 0-60mph in 2.9 seconds (with the eight-speed, paddle-shift auto) and clock a quarter-mile in just 10.95s, making it just shy of a bona-fide, factory-fresh ten-second car.

There's no word on price, but the standard Z06 starts from $79,000. We don't get the Z06 in the UK - as yet, anyway - so for those of you who want a right-hand-drive ‘Vette, you'll be pleased to know the standard, 466bhp car is a good ‘un.

Driven in the UK: new Corvette C7