17 MPG combined. That’s the EPA fuel economy rating for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 equipped with the 6.2L supercharged V8 and the eight-speed automatic transmission. Nobody buys a Z06 because they’re prioritizing fuel efficiency. This is a car for adrenaline junkies, track day enthusiasts, and those who crave raw, unadulterated performance above all else. For them, the Z06 is a surgical instrument of speed, and the fuel consumption is simply the price to pay for that experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down that 17 MPG combined rating into 14 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Z06’s immense power is often unused. The highway number, while seemingly acceptable, still hints at the potential for rapid fuel consumption. When exploiting the Z06’s passing power, which is almost irresistible, expect that number to drop quickly. Driven sedately, with a light foot and a focus on maintaining momentum, the Z06 can achieve its rated highway MPG, but few owners are buying this machine intent on driving like they’re participating in a hypermiling challenge.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will be $3,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful comparison, but remember that your individual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and where you live. If you frequently visit the track, drive aggressively, or live in an area with high fuel prices, you can expect to spend considerably more than $3,400 per year. However, a driver who primarily uses the Z06 for long highway trips and drives conservatively might see fuel costs somewhat lower than the EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers offer a guideline, real-world fuel economy in the Z06 can vary significantly based on driving style and conditions. Owners who frequently unleash the car’s performance potential are likely to see combined MPG figures dipping well into the low teens, or even single digits on track. On the other hand, those who primarily use the Z06 for longer cruises and resist the urge to constantly accelerate can potentially achieve numbers closer to the EPA ratings. The Z06 is a car that rewards restraint, but it’s also a car that encourages you to ignore it. Expect more trips to the gas station than with your average vehicle.

How it compares

Compared to other performance cars, the 2019 Z06’s fuel economy is generally in line with expectations. The Porsche 911 Turbo, for instance, achieves a similar 17 MPG combined, despite being all-wheel-drive. The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350, with its high-revving naturally aspirated V8, manages only 16 MPG combined with the manual transmission. The Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupe also clocks in around 17 MPG combined. The slightly less powerful Corvette Stingray offers a more palatable 19 MPG combined, a compromise that some buyers might consider. The fact that the Z06 is even remotely comparable to other high-performance machines underscores that its mission is speed and capability, not saving fuel. To see all Chevrolet fuel economy data, check out our other pages. If you want CORVETTE MPG across all years, we have that too.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its performance-oriented nature, there are some practical steps Z06 owners can take to improve fuel economy. One of the most effective ways is to simply drive with a lighter foot. The Z06 delivers immense power at even moderate throttle openings, so avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking when possible to minimize fuel consumption.

Using the Z06’s driving modes can also help improve efficiency. The “Tour” mode softens the throttle response and can help encourage smoother, more fuel-efficient driving. While it may not be the most exciting way to experience the Z06, it can make a noticeable difference on longer drives.

Proper tire inflation is critical for both performance and fuel economy. Ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, as under-inflated tires can increase rolling resistance and reduce gas mileage. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially before long drives.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. While the Z06 is already relatively lightweight, removing unnecessary items from the trunk or passenger compartment can further improve fuel economy.

Finally, consider the type of driving you’ll be doing. If you primarily plan on using the Z06 for track days or spirited driving, accepting the lower fuel economy is part of the experience. However, if you’ll be using the car for longer commutes or highway trips, focusing on smooth driving can help stretch your fuel dollars further.