Next-Gen Corvette Spotted

General Motors Co.’s next-generation Chevrolet Corvette has been captured by spy photographers on public roads in Germany and testing on the country’s famed Nurburgring course.

Although still camouflaged, the latest test vehicle is far more identifiable than in previous photos of prototypes. GM is expected to launch the C8 ’Vette sometime next year as a 2020 model.

The latest test model sheds the plastic cladding and side body extensions that hid the car’s form. The design shows a pointed nose, lots of air venting—including huge side intakes—rounded quad-headlights, rear-facing side cameras and what appears to be dual-caliper rear brakes.

The car’s overall size looks to be about the same as the current C7 Corvette, but with a more cab-forward design allowed by the long-rumored mid-engine layout. The test model also shows a lower, wider stance.

GM will use a modified version of the C7’s aluminum spaceframe for the C8, according to media reports. A glass cover is expected to be used to show off the car’s engine.

Several V-8 engine options are said to be in the works. This includes the current C7 Stingray's 500-hp 6.2-liter unit, a 600-hp 5.5-liter mill and a twin-turbo system that is expected to generate 800 hp. A high-output hybrid-electric system also is possible.