Cruising in a Corvette

They called me Big Bird because they were jealous.
Yes, I had a yellow Corvette coupe for a week.
Corvette powers into 2009 with a raft of enhancements that further distinguish it and give customers more choices - including a lower-priced convertible model, variable ratio steering and new steering wheel audio controls.
The 6.2-liter LS3 small-block V-8 is the standard engine in coupe and convertible models. It is rated at 430 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft. of torque with the standard exhaust system.
Corvette is offered with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic with paddle-shift control. The shifting feel for both the six-speed manual transmission and paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmissions were improved in '08 with the manual transmission shifting improvements including a more positive and direct feel during gear changes with better gate-to-gate location.
Dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combine with the grille to create a strong visual identity for the Corvette, while the tapered rear deck and fascia improve high-speed performance. (Top speed is 190.). I constantly paid attention to the Head-Up display, which showed my speed in the windshield in front of me, so I wouldn't misbehave.
The fixed xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provide superior lighting performance.
It's not just what's ahead that's important in Corvette. The lean rear design sports round tail lamps and center-exit exhaust add to an eye-catching view from behind.
Corvette's interior is inspired by the car's dual-cockpit heritage. High-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality help deliver premium quality meant to enhance performance driving. The instrument panel and doors are covered with cast-skin foam-in-place trim with the look of a leather panel. It is warm and inviting and is said to have double the life of conventional trim materials.
With a 0.286 coefficient of drag, the coupe models are the most aerodynamic Corvettes ever.
Fuel economy is 16/26 city/highway. This is for a car that goes zero to 60 in 4.2 seconds.
A full-function OnStar system with turn-by-turn capability is standard, and an onboard navigation system with voice recognition is available.
Corvette also features keyless access. When the owner is in close proximity to the door, the key fob's signal unlocks the door. The system's emergency key and other remote-function controls are integrated in a single unit.

Texas Auto Writers Awards
The Texas Auto Writers 2009 Spring Challenge Writer's Choice awards are in. 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is the Car of Texas. It also was given best new design. The Family Car of Texas is the 2009 Ford Flex, best use of technology went to 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, and best value was the 2010 Kia Soul.

Published Sept. 1, 2009