Chevrolet has unveiled the Corvette Z06 Bathurst Edition, a rare and exclusive model built for the Australian and New Zealand markets. This limited-production vehicle commemorates the first official Corvette entries into the prestigious Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race, aligning with the local debut of the Z06 GT3.R race car.
Unique Offering for Down Under
General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) will ship only a limited run of 2026 model-year (MY26) Z06 Corvettes to Australia and New Zealand, making this edition exceptionally scarce. Only a dozen units will be available, each individually numbered, and capable of exceeding 300km/h. This is more than just a performance upgrade; it’s a direct tie-in to a major motorsport event.
Celebrating Endurance Racing
The Bathurst 12 Hour race has long been a proving ground for automotive brands, with winners including BMW, McLaren, Ferrari, and Audi. The Corvette’s entry marks a new chapter in this competition, and the Bathurst Edition Z06 serves as a road-legal tribute. This connection to motorsport elevates the vehicle beyond a standard high-performance car; it’s a collector’s item linked to a significant racing event.
Key Specifications and Features
The special edition is finished exclusively in Switchblade Silver, featuring Jake C8.R graphics, a carbon-fiber roof, and carbon flash trim. Inside, the cabin boasts Jet Black and Santorini Blue Nappa leather with Competition seats, blue seatbelts, and carbon-fiber accents.
The car retains the Z06’s potent 5.5-liter LT6 V8 engine, delivering 475kW/595Nm and a sub-3.0-second 0-100km/h acceleration time. It also includes the Z07 Performance Package, adding a carbon-fiber aero kit, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes.
Exclusive Extras
Buyers will receive a custom artwork print, an indoor car cover with Corvette GT3.R graphics, and branded apparel, further enhancing the exclusivity of the package. The model also features updated interior screens, repositioned switchgear, and a new drive mode selector.
Bathurst’s Enduring Legacy
The Bathurst name has a rich history in Australian motorsport, previously adorning performance versions of the Holden Commodore and other sports cars like the Toyota MR2 and Mazda RX-7. This edition continues that tradition, solidifying the circuit’s reputation on the international stage.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing is expected to exceed the standard Z06 coupe’s $336,000 before on-road costs. Deliveries are scheduled for later this year. The 2026 Bathurst 12 Hour race will take place on February 15, 2026, with qualifying on February 14.
The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst Edition is a clear example of how manufacturers leverage motorsport success to create highly desirable, limited-run vehicles. This strategy not only boosts brand recognition but also appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who seek a tangible connection to racing heritage.
