Chevrolet Unveils the Exquisite 2026 Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition for Australia and New Zealand
In a move that has sent ripples of excitement through the global automotive enthusiast community, Chevrolet has announced a highly limited, exclusive production model—the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition. This ultra-exclusive variant commemorates the Corvette Z06 GT3.R’s inaugural appearance at the legendary Mount Panorama Circuit for the iconic Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race. While this special edition is a testament to Corvette’s storied 70-year history in motorsports and marks a significant milestone for the marque’s expansion into Australian racing, there is a considerable challenge for those outside its intended markets: this remarkable machine will be strictly limited to just 12 units and will be available exclusively in Australia and New Zealand.
The Bathurst 12 Hour is more than just another endurance race; it’s a crucible of automotive engineering and driver skill, held at one of the world’s most challenging and revered circuits. As Chevrolet prepares to make its debut at Mount Panorama with the Corvette Z06 GT3.R, the automaker is celebrating this historic achievement by offering a highly exclusive production model that embodies the spirit of both the Corvette brand and the legendary Bathurst circuit.
A Historic Partnership and Exclusive Commemoration
Update GH Monday, 3/16/2026 Episode (March 16, 2026) | General Hospital Spoilers
Chevrolet Unveils the Exquisite 2026 Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition for Australia and New Zealand
In a move that has sent ripples of excitement through the global automotive enthusiast community, Chevrolet has announced a highly limited, exclusive production model—the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition. This ultra-exclusive variant commemorates the Corvette Z06 GT3.R’s inaugural appearance at the legendary Mount Panorama Circuit for the iconic Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race. While this special edition is a testament to Corvette’s storied 70-year history in motorsports and marks a significant milestone for the marque’s expansion into Australian racing, there is a considerable challenge for those outside its intended markets: this remarkable machine will be strictly limited to just 12 units and will be available exclusively in Australia and New Zealand.
The Bathurst 12 Hour is more than just another endurance race; it’s a crucible of automotive engineering and driver skill, held at one of the world’s most challenging and revered circuits. As Chevrolet prepares to make its debut at Mount Panorama with the Corvette Z06 GT3.R, the automaker is celebrating this historic achievement by offering a highly exclusive production model that embodies the spirit of both the Corvette brand and the legendary Bathurst circuit.
A Historic Partnership and Exclusive Commemoration
The Corvette legacy extends deep into the world of professional racing, with the iconic brand having competed successfully in globally renowned events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring, the Rolex 24 at Daytona, and numerous production-based and GT racing series. However, throughout its illustrious history, one particular track and a very special race have remained absent from the Corvette’s extensive résumé. That all changes in 2026, as Chevrolet makes its formal entry into one of the most demanding races in the world—the Bathurst 12 Hour—by fielding the Corvette Z06 GT3.R on Australia’s formidable Mount Panorama Circuit.
To mark this momentous occasion, Chevrolet is unveiling the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition. This limited-production model is designed to capture the essence of this historic racing partnership, offering a unique blend of track-focused performance, bespoke styling, and exclusive collector’s items.
However, the excitement is tempered by an element of exclusivity that underscores the prestige of this release. The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition will be strictly limited to a total of 12 units, and its availability is restricted to the Australian and New Zealand markets. For Corvette enthusiasts around the world who hold a special appreciation for the Bathurst 12 Hour and recognize the significance of the Corvette’s participation, this exclusivity presents a considerable challenge.
Exclusive Performance and Bespoke Styling: How It’s Equipped
Under the skin, the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition is built upon the highly capable 3LZ Coupe platform and comes equipped with the track-focused Z07 Performance Package. This package includes the iconic LT6 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, designed to provide an exhilarating, race-bred driving experience. The engine is capable of revving up to 8,600 rpm, delivering a breathtaking sound and an aggressive power delivery that truly sets the Corvette Z06 apart.
Visually, the special edition is finished in a striking Switchblade Silver exterior paint, a color that evokes the sleek lines of the Corvette’s mid-engine architecture and reflects the dynamic spirit of motorsports. To enhance the car’s performance-oriented aesthetic, Carbon Flash finishes are applied to the carbon-fiber ground effects and rear wing, as well as the exterior badges, trim, and mirrors. The roof features a clear coat finish that showcases the intricate weave pattern of the lightweight carbon fiber, highlighting the car’s advanced material construction.
To commemorate the racing connection, the “Jake” C8.R graphics package adorns the hood and rear quarter panels, paying homage to Corvette Racing’s celebrated mascot and its enduring legacy of success on the world’s most competitive circuits.
Adding to the exclusivity, the special edition features a custom Bathurst 12 Hour decal that incorporates an outline of the Mount Panorama Circuit, a clear visual nod to the car’s unique heritage. The car rides on a set of 20-inch front and 21-inch rear Spider Black forged aluminum wheels, which house bright blue brake calipers that provide a striking contrast to the silver exterior. These wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, measuring 275/30 at the front and 345/25 at the rear, ensuring maximum grip and track-ready performance.
The Luxurious and Exclusive Interior
Inside, the limited-edition Z06 features a striking combination of Jet Black and Santorini Blue Napa leather on the Competition Seats, providing a luxurious yet sporty interior environment. The seats are highlighted with blue seatbelts, adding a unique touch of color and flair to the cabin. The rest of the interior utilizes a sophisticated blend of carbon-fiber and Stealth trim pieces, creating a refined and driver-focused cockpit.
To mark each vehicle’s uniqueness, special Bathurst 12 Hour build plates are featured on the inner door jambs, individually numbered from 1 to 12. Furthermore, the sale of each 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst Special Edition includes a collection of exclusive extras. These extras comprise a custom artwork print, a Corvette GT3.R printed indoor car cover, and a Corvette Racing merchandise pack, ensuring that owners receive a comprehensive and truly collectible package.
What Makes Bathurst Special?
For those unfamiliar with the Mount Panorama Circuit, it is a place of legendary status among racing fans, renowned for its breathtaking natural location. While most closed-course tracks incorporate natural rolling hills and many street circuits are located within city limits and are predominantly flat, Mount Panorama stands apart. It is uniquely situated on the namesake mountain, featuring tight walls and steep grades that create one of the most demanding and thrilling racing environments in the world.
The circuit’s defining features include a challenging 571-foot climb and the dizzying speeds achieved on the Conrod Straight, contributing to the race’s wild and unpredictable character. It is also worth noting that the Mount Panorama Circuit is technically a street circuit, as it is a public road that is closed to the public during the annual races that take place there. This adds another layer of complexity and excitement to the racing experience.
Exclusivity and Final Details
As of now, Chevrolet has not yet released detailed pricing or delivery information for the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour Special Edition. The automaker is still finalizing some of the finer details surrounding this special vehicle.
However, given the extremely limited production run of just 12 units and its availability exclusively in Australia and New Zealand, it is likely that any enthusiasts outside these regions who are interested in acquiring this exclusive model may already be out of luck. This remarkable special edition represents a significant moment in the Corvette’s motorsports journey, offering a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate its debut at the legendary Mount Panorama Circuit.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of the legendary history of Chevrolet Corvette racing at Mount Panorama. Explore the incredible 2026 Corvette lineup today and discover how you can experience the pinnacle of performance and design.