Engine Break-in ... is it still a thing?

The 2020 Owners Manual says to avoid downshifting and full throttle accelerations for the first 500 miles. In another section it also mentions no hard braking.

Generally newer vehicles have extra lubrications so do not do an oil change early. I would drive it normal. Don’t race it. Don’t baby it.

For a new engine, is it recommended to change the oil after 500mi?

I bought a new Corvette in 2019. The owners manual states no excessive reving, vary the speeds, do not exceed 3500 RPMs for the first 500 miles and have the oil changed at 500 mi

I didn't bother reading the owners manual on my 2020 RS but I did employ the same break in tactics that I did with my Vette. I have also broken in my new 2021 Suzuki outboard motor 1.5 liter and that manual stated low RPMs and no extended WOT for the first 10 hours, with an oil change at 20 hours, then every 100 hours thereafter.

Owner - Employ some/all of the above

Leasers - Are prolly driving it like they stole it and never clicked on this thread

The first one I wanted from the dealer had 400 miles on it. I refused to take it. It was one of those dealer trade deals. The salesman found another one at another dealer. I went to that dealer and bought from them. He was kinda pissed and I understand that. But I wanted NEW.....

And yes I did drive the recommended 500 miles break as stated