SPY PICS: 2020 Chevy Corvette breaks cover

This is our best look yet at the 2020 Corvette and it’s unequivocal proof it will be the first mid-engined version of Chevrolet’s supercar since its introduction in 1953.

Clear to see in these side profile images are the short front and rear overhangs and the long distance between the rear axle and driver, who sits in the middle of the wheelbase.

These spy shots from the US show the next-generation (C8) 2020 Corvette is getting closer to production, which is expected to take place by the end of next year.

At that point the C8 will go on sale alongside the existing C7 Corvette as Chevrolet’s most expensive, range-topping sports car to rival Ford’s mid-engined GT supercar.

Why is this relevant to Australians? Because the C8 Corvette is the “rear-drive V8 sports car” Holden has promised to release Down Under, and one of the 24 models it committed to launching between 2015 and 2020.

Therefore it could join the Chevrolet Camaro muscle-coupe, first official local GM conversions of which arrive in July, in selected Holden dealerships as early as next year, although 2020 is more likely.

This year’s Holden Acadia seven-seat SUV will be new model number 18 of 24 since 2015 and Holden says it remains committed to its promise despite GM’s sale of Opel to the PSA Group.

Expect the ground-breaking American super-coupe to cost close to $200,000 – in line with German supercars like the Porsche 911 and at least double the price of the Camaro, which should cost around $85K.

There’s been much speculation about the mechanical specs of the Ferrari-baiting C8, including the possibility of three engines led by GM’s new twin-turbo 4.2-litre V8 delivering about 485kW.

Other possibilities include a circa-635kW biturbo 5.5-litre V8 or Chevrolet’s faithful 6.2-litre LT1 V8, both matched to a dual-clutch rear transaxle.

Heavy cladding still covers much of the 2020 Corvette’s body, but it’s clear its short, wide and low proportions will make it the most unmistakable coupe to wear the badge.

Apart from being mid-engined – and destined for Australia – the only thing these spy shots reveal for certain is the next Corvette will ride on staggered wheels and tyres measuring 245/35 ZR19 at the front and 305/30 ZR20 at the rear.

We expect the 2020 ‘Vette to make its official world debut at the 2019 Detroit motor show next January.