The 2015 Corvette Stingray aims to knock down the 911 with a new eight-speed automatic

By Joe Mahan April 8, 2014

2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible front left angle — Image used with permission by copyright holder

2015 Corvette Stingray buyers will now have the option choose between the manual version or an all-new eight-speed automatic.

No, this is not the same eight-speed found in the Cadillac CST, but rather an entirely new transmission designed in-house by GM for the 2015 Corvette Z06. The new eight weighs eight pounds less than the previous six-speed found in the Corvette Stingray. Get this: Chevrolet says it will outperform the Porsche 911’s dual-clutch transmission by up to eight hundredths of a second. That’s a lot of eights.

Boringly, the new transmission is named the 8L90. Interestingly, however, the 8L90 is made out of aluminum and magnesium. Chevy is using these metals to abide by the gas mileage game. We’ve heard no rumors surrounding what mpg numbers the newly geared Stingray will produce. It should be comparable to the 17 city and 29 highway figures that the 2014 Stingray seven-speed manual produces, though.

Remember, the new Z06 will also be offered with the 8L90, which is impressive considering the Z06’s LT4 will put down 625 horsepower. If the new transmission can take a beating from that supercharged beast then it should handle the Stingray’s ‘mild’ 455 hp without a problem.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Joe Mahan is an intern at Digital Trends working in the Cars section. He is currently a Junior at the University of Portland…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.