With the remarkably smooth, but incredibly punchy LS2 rumbling quietly at idle, it's time to depress the clutch and palm the short stick

The six-speed manual is somewhat frustrating due to a first to fourth gear shunt that occasionally precludes a first to second increment as a method of enhancing fuel economy. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

into the first of six forward gears; short throws and a "notchy" feel define the motion of rowing through the half-dozen cogs. Combined with forgiving clutch actuation, converting engine torque into forward speed is simple and exhilarating, albeit somewhat frustrating due to a first to fourth gear shunt that occasionally precludes a first to second increment as a method of enhancing fuel economy. The fallacy in this arrangement is that it only intercedes under gentle acceleration, the result of which is a tendency to avoid the annoyance (and lugging the engine in 4th gear) by sinking the right foot a little deeper; kinda defeats the original purpose wouldn't you say? Despite this gremlin, the Corvette's Tremec gearbox features

To put it succinctly, 0-to-100 km/h takes only 4.3 rage-filled seconds. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

tall ratios contributing to eye-popping speeds at low revs. Top speed for the manually equipped C6 is a screaming 300 kph (186 mph).

The new Corvette soft-top is a rocket thanks to its LS2 powerplant, which is the most powerful and largest small-block engine to ever power a 'Vette. Pulling the trigger on the LS2 instantly generates astonishing acceleration accompanied by a knockout auditory experience best described as deep, guttural and wildly raucous. To put it succinctly: 0-to-100 km/h in 4.3 rage-filled seconds, with only one shift needed. Now imagine yourself in the driver's seat, roof stowed, tunes belting, sun shining and nothing ahead but open road, beautiful vistas and the occasional espresso stand. Could it possibly get any better?