SPY PICS: Last hurrah for front-engined ZR1 Corvette

As GM moves towards its next-generation mid-engined C8 Corvette, Chevrolet is preparing a final, current-generation C7 version of the beastly ZR1 to bow out in a blaze of glory.

This batch of spy photos shows a cobbled-up C7 test mule on a shakedown run in the US ahead of its expected launch date as the final front-engined ZR1 at the Detroit motor show in January 2017.

Based on the current Z06, the ZR1 is expected to wind out more power than any other production Corvette. Rumours suggest it will produce around 520kW from an uprated version of the 6.2-litre supercharged V8 that currently, in its most potent Z06 form, develops around 485kW.

Although Chev is known to be working on a new LT5 V8, this is not tipped to appear until the C8 model expected in 2018.

And though this test mule doesn't have it, previous ZR1 spy photos have depicted a car with a huge, sun-blocking rear wing. The mounting points on the rear deck are still there, though. And the massive cross-section racing tyres look entirely in keeping with the expected performance potential.

Some reports are saying the ultimate front-engined ZR1 will drive through a manual gearbox, not the 10-speed auto available in the current Z06.

This is against the background of GM Holden's promise to introduce a sports car – tipped by some to be sourced from the US – for the Australian market after the final Commodore rolls off the production line in 2017.

If it ends up being a Corvette, don't get too excited about the upcoming C7 ZR1.

If you want to get your blood pumping, consider instead the possibilities of an LT5-powered mid-engine C8 cutting loose in our wide brown land.