Los Angeles (CNN Business) The mid-engine 2020 Chevrolet Corvette isn't even in full production yet, but it has already been named MotorTrend's Car of the Year.

General Motors GM MotorTrend editors announced the award at a ceremony in Los Angeles Monday night. To be eligible for the award, a car has to be available for sale or expected to be available for sale, during the 2019 calendar year. The Corvette qualified becausehad said it would be in production at its famous Bowling Green, Kentucky, Corvette factory before the end of December. Production has since been delayed, however, until early next year due to the United Auto Workers strike . Still, the Corvette remained eligible because, when the cars were being tested for the award, production was intended for this year, said MotorTrend Group executive editor Mark Rechtin.

Vehicles also have to be all-new or substantially changed from the prior year in order to qualify. Models that are simply continued from the previous year, or that have only cosmetic changes, cannot win

The new Chevrolet Corvette is just as good as far more expensive European sports cars, MotorTrend said.

The 2020 Corvette represents a major change for the famous American sports car model. Ever since its introduction in 1953, every Corvette has had its engine in front under the hood, as do most other cars. The 2020 Corvette has its engine behind the seats, more or less in the center of the car. This follows the pattern of most high-cost exotic sports cars, such as Lamborghinis, McLarens and some Ferraris.

Except that the Corvette isn't a high-cost exotic. Prices for the base version will start at about $60,000 compared to $200,000 or much more for European exotics.

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