2013 Chevrolet Corvette C7 - price, specs and photos

This is the stunning new 2013 Corvette C7, which was revealed at the North American International Auto Show at midnight, UK time.  The shape is distinctly Corvette and distinctly American, but instantly appealing to a worldwide audience.  It actually looks better than most of the renders which did the rounds over the past few months.

The Corvette C7 will be released in late summer this year and will feature a 6.2 litre V8 with 450bhp.  It gets two transmissions - a 7 speed semi-automatic and a 6 speed manual.  It also comes in two trim levels, Stingray and Z51.  Yes, the Stingray name has been dusted off for the first time since 1976.

The interior doesn't look too shabby either, with almost European supercar levels of leather, carbon fibre and aluminium.  Production of the C6 will cease in February and C7 production will start in July.  Prices will start at approximately $55,000, or £34,000.

The Corvette C7 marks a first in that it will be available in right hand drive for the UK and Australian markets.

The C7 is hugely important for Chevrolet. Not only does it need to revive GM's flagging fortunes, 2013 is also the Corvette's 60th birthday.