Chevrolet has listened closely to feedback from C8 Corvette owners, particularly regarding the much-criticized “wall of buttons” between the driver and passenger. With the 2026 Corvette, the automaker has made significant strides to address this concern, introducing a series of interior upgrades across the entire range, from the Stingray to the ZR1. These improvements include a fresh three-screen layout, a reduction in buttons, and an array of new interior trim options that enhance the driving experience.
At the core of the updates is a redesigned digital cockpit. The new setup includes a 12.7-inch infotainment display, complete with modernized graphics, and a larger, 14-inch digital instrument cluster. Additionally, a 6.6-inch touchscreen has been placed just to the left of the steering wheel, providing an intuitive, driver-centric setup. This new arrangement has allowed Chevrolet to eliminate the controversial button wall on the center console, resulting in a much cleaner, more streamlined look.
According to Mirna Bajer, Senior Program Manager at General Motors, drivers now have the ability to “highly customize the gauges across the three screens.” Despite the reduction in buttons, the team focused on maintaining “really good physical controls,” as emphasized by Brian Stoeckel, Creative Design Manager. The new setup features a relocated drive mode selector, which has made room for a wireless charging pad beneath the touchscreen, complete with a cover to secure smartphones. Additionally, the volume knob has been enlarged and illuminated at the base for easy accessibility, while HVAC controls have been moved to the base of the touchscreen.
The redesigned center console is not only visually appealing but also offers practical improvements. Two cupholders are now integrated into ambient lighting, a USB-C port has been added, and a grab handle is now included for the passenger. The Performance Data Recorder (PDR) has also received a significant upgrade, now providing more detailed track data and lap videos, perfect for enthusiasts looking to improve their lap times, even if only in their minds.
The Performance App, which debuted in the 2024 Corvette E-Ray, has been expanded to all 2026 Corvette models. This app provides live data on horsepower, torque flow, G-forces, acceleration timers, and additional temperature gauges for the tires, engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluids.
For those interested in personalization, Corvette offers more interior color options than ever before. New schemes include Sky Cool and Medium Ash Gray with Habanero accents, Santorini Blue, and Very Dark Atmosphere. A standout option is the asymmetrical interior, where the driver’s side is finished in Jet Black, while the passenger seat features Adrenaline Red, a first for the C8 Corvette. The ZR1 model also comes with a carbon fiber frame around the digital instrument cluster as standard, with the option for E-Ray and Z06 owners to upgrade.
Another exciting feature is the electrochromic targa roof glass, which allows drivers to adjust the tint to full, medium, or low settings. In higher trims like the 2LT/2LZ and 3LT/3LZ, the cupholders are made from real aluminum, adding a touch of luxury.
While the 2026 Corvette’s interior has received a significant overhaul, its exterior remains largely unchanged. However, there are subtle updates to the exterior trim, including two new paint colors, Roswell Green Metallic and Blade Silver Metallic, as well as an asymmetrical center stripe in either Edge Red or Carbon Flash. The ZTK performance package now includes the largest carbon-ceramic brakes ever fitted to a production Corvette, featuring 10-piston front and 6-piston rear calipers for enhanced braking performance.
The C8 Corvette lineup was first introduced in 2019, followed by the Z06 in 2022, the E-Ray in 2023, and the ZR1 performance flagship in 2024. More details on the availability and pricing of the 2026 Corvette will be revealed later this year. Until then, you can explore the new interior features in a video showcasing every angle of the updated design.