The latest Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards require all auto manufacturers to raise the average fuel efficiency of their vehicle offerings to 35.5 mpg by 2016.
Although commendably fuel efficient given their horsepower ratings, the Corvette's powerplants will exert a downward force on Chevy's CAFE figure, which accounts for all vehicles in the manufacturer's stable.
With rumors of a downsized base engine for the Corvette already aswirl, it seems unlikely that the comparatively thirsty LS7 and LS9 will survive unscathed. If you're hoping to score a new Vette at the pinnacle of the latest horsepower wars, now could be the time.