Photo: Chevrolet
It’s the age-old question: What’s that button do? You may have noticed the assortment of buttons on the C8 Corvette’s steering wheel. Most of them are self-explanatory, featuring typical like cruise control and audio controls. However, there’s one shiny silver button on the left-hand side that activates something called “Z Mode.” Here’s how it can change your driving experience for the better.
Learn More: All about the 2020 C8 Corvette
Drive modes
Like its predecessor, the 2020 C8 Corvette boasts a number of drive modes, including Tour, Eco, Weather, Sport, and Track. Z Mode, however, allows you to store your own customized settings for the engine, transmission, steering, and if your C8 Corvette is equipped with magnetic dampers, you’ll be able to tweak the suspension settings.
In order to customize your ride, you’ll have to set your preferences using the center screen. Once you’ve chosen your settings, you can enable them any time, with a simple push of the Z Mode button.
Know your modes
- Weather: When the weather turns rough, choose this mode for optimal traction. It distributes appropriate power to the rear wheels. The vehicle’s sensors can also adjust the traction control and throttle progression to give you confidence when driving in slippery conditions. This mode isn’t available on the ZR1.
- Eco: Designed to reduce engine labor and conserve fuel, Eco Mode capitalizes on Active Fuel Management. It makes the engine act like a four-cylinder until aggressive performance is needed. This mode isn’t available on the ZR1.
- Tour: This is the Corvette’s default mode. Automatic systems and sensor work to maximize comfort and dampen shocks. You can customize the gauge cluster to show audio, navigation, and phone information.
- Sport: Maximizes responsiveness and power. This mode also stiffens Magnetic Ride Damping and lets you hear more of the throttle. The dashboard will display RPMs.
- Track: Designed exclusively for track driving, this mode provides excellent off-the-line acceleration. It also tweaks Magnetic Ride Damping and steering effort to maximize responsiveness, while enabling Performance Traction Management and throttle progression. Your dashboard will show shift lights.
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Source: Car and Driver, Chevrolet
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