2020 Chevy Corvette convertible rocks a hardtop for the first time

Up until now, all Corvette convertibles exclusively used soft-top designs.

The 2020 Corvette moves to a hardtop for the first time, bringing benefits such as a quieter cabin, better security and cleaner styling.       

A body-colored roof comes standard on all 2020 Corvette convertibles, though Chevy is letting customers spec a Carbon Flash-painted top for a two-tone appearance.

The composite hardtop, which can be operated at speeds of up to 30 mph, takes 16 seconds to go down thanks to six electric motors.    

Chevrolet says the 2020 Corvette convertible will hit 60 mph in about 3 seconds.

Like the coupe, the C8 Corvette convertible will be offered in 1LT, 2LT and 3LT trims.

A 6.2-liter V8 engine with 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque when an optional performance exhaust system is installed will provide power.

The engine works exclusively with a Tremec eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

Production of the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette convertible will be begin next year towards the end of the first quarter.

The 2020 Chevy Corvette convertible will carry a $7,500 price premium over the Corvette coupe, which begins at $59,995.