Camaro ZL1 by the Numbers

DETROIT – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds,  and can reach a top speed of 184 mph. Starting at $54,095, including Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride  suspension,  the ZL1 delivers supercar levels of performance and technology for the price of a sports car. “From the original Camaro to the current Corvette ZR1, Chevrolet has a long history of delivering world-class cars that outperformed competitors at several times the price,” said Chris Perry, vice president, global Chevrolet marketing and strategy. “The ZL1 is no exception. There are very few cars at any price that can match the power, features, and track-capability of the Camaro ZL1.”

The Camaro ZL1 Coupe features a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $54,095, excluding delivery fees and taxes. For that price, the ZL1 compares favorably to much more expensive cars:

	Base Price	Horsepower	Torque	Magnetic Ride
Camaro ZL1	$54,095	580	556	Standard
Audi R8 GT	$196,800	560	398	Standard
Maserati GranTurismo	$122,800	405	339	Not Available
Mercedes SLS AMG	$185,750	565	479	Not Available

Supercar Performance

The heart of the Camaro ZL1 is a supercharged 6.2L engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm). – making it the most-powerful production Camaro ever. The LSA features a Roots-style blower with an efficient four-lobe rotor set and compact intercooler The ZL1 also features a  standard dual-mode exhaust system, with vacuum-actuated valves in the exhaust pipes for a refined exhaust note  at low speeds as well as a free-flowing system for peak performance. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. With either transmission, the Camaro ZL1 delivers performance that rivals some of the world’s fastest supercars:

	Manual	Automatic
0 – 60 mph (from rolling start)	4.0 seconds	3.9 seconds
1/4-mile (from a rolling start)	12.1 sec at 119 mpg	12.0 sec at 119 mpg
Top speed	180 mph	184 mph
Max lateral grip	1.0 g	1.0 g

“With 0 to 60 taking less than four seconds, the acceleration of the ZL1 is just awesome,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer, “but horsepower is only half of the story. The ZL1’s most significant measurement of  performance is lapping the Nurburgring in 7:41.27. That’s astounding for a 2+2 coupe, and a great testament to the acceleration, braking, grip, and balance of the Camaro ZL1. It is the well-rounded performance of the Camaro ZL1 that will set the bar for the sports-car segment.”

Exclusive, track-capable technologies 

To deliver that well-rounded performance, the Camaro ZL1 comes standard with several track capable technologies  that are exclusive to the sports car segment. For example, the Camaro ZL1 is the first sports car to feature the third-generation of Magnetic Ride. This advanced suspension system employs valve-less damping and  Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid technology to varies the suspension firmness to match the road and driving conditions. “Traditional suspension systems at some point   compromise ride quality for road-holding grip and  body control,” said Oppenheiser. “With Magnetic Ride Control, we can offer customers the best of both worlds: A comfortable ride that makes the ZL1 appropriate as a daily driver and the incredibly precise  body control that takes the ZL1 so enjoyable on the track.” Also standard on the Camaro ZL1 is Performance Traction Management (PTM), which is exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, PTM is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control, electronic stability control and electric power steering response to enhance performance. For example, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best-possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and PTM will automatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction. In addition, the Camaro ZL1 has been engineered to be track-capable from the factory, including a rear-differential cooler, an integrated engine- and transmission-oil cooler, and brake cooling ducts as standard equipment. As such, the ZL1 offers many technologies and features not available on the Ford Shelby GT500:

	Camaro ZL1	GT500
Magnetic Ride	Standard	Not available
Performance Traction Management	Standard	Not available
Factory engine and transmission coolers	Standard	Dealer-installed option
Factory brake cooling ducts	Standard	Dealer-installed option
Factory rear differential cooler	Standard	Dealer-installed option

Additional features and options  


The interior of the Camaro ZL1 features standard leather seating surfaces with suede microfiber inserts, and  heated, powered-adjustable front seats. Standard technologies include a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics® audio  system; USB and Bluetooth connectivity; and rear-park assist with a rear-view camera display integrated in the center rear-view mirror.

The Camaro ZL1 is available with six options:

• Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls is $1,185
• 20-inch, bright aluminum wheel package is $470
• Power sunroof is $900
• Stripe package is $470
• Exposed-weave carbon fiber hood insert is $600
• The suede package, including sueded microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob, and shift boot is $500
  

The Camaro ZL1 Coupe will go on sale in the spring of 2012, as a 2012 model. The Camaro ZL1 Convertible will go  on sale in the summer of 2012, as a 2013 model. Pricing for the Camaro ZL1 Convertible will be announced later.

Camaro ZL1: Most Powerful Chevrolet Convertible Ever

DETROIT – Chevrolet announced today the brand’s most-powerful convertible ever – the 2013 Camaro ZL1 – will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show next month. When it goes on sale in late 2012, it will deliver more performance and technology than many exotic cars and ultra-luxury convertibles.

“The Camaro ZL1 convertible will be one of the most powerful and most capable, convertibles available at any price,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “This is a car that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you drop the top – or hit the gas.”

Like the coupe, the Camaro ZL1 convertible features a supercharged 6.2L “LSA” engine, SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm). That’s enough to exceed the output of 2+2 convertibles of many performance icons, including:

• 2012 Aston Martin DB9 Volante – 470 hp / 443 lb.-ft.
• 2012 Mercedes SL63 AMG – 518 hp / 465 lb.-ft.
• 2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S – 530 hp / 516 lb.-ft.
• 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 – 550 hp / 510 lb.-ft.

The Camaro ZL1 convertible’s power is complemented by advanced powertrain and chassis technologies designed to deliver exceptional performance on the road or track. In fact, it’s the same balance of acceleration, handling and ride quality that enabled a Camaro ZL1 coupe recently to lap the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife course in 7:41.27 minutes.

From Day One, the architecture for the fifth-generation Camaro was designed to accommodate a convertible model, which gives the ZL1 convertible coupe-like driving dynamics. Four strategic reinforcements enhance the already-stiff body structure to quell the cowl and steering wheel shake common in convertibles. They include:

• A tower-to-tower brace under the hood
• A transmission support reinforcement brace
• Underbody tunnel brace
• Front “X” brace and stiffer cradle as well as rear underbody “V” braces

Additional structural reinforcements in the ZL1 convertible are designed to improve noise and vibration characteristics, while also reducing unwanted ride and body motions. They include a hydroformed tube in the A-pillars, an inner reinforcement bracket in the windshield header, a reinforced front hinge pillar and reinforcements inside the rockers.

The suspension of the ZL1 convertible uses the third-generation of Magnetic Ride. New, twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners enable faster response, with damping levels now adjusted up to 1,000 times per second – about one adjustment per inch of vehicle travel at 60 mph – making the system exceptionally responsive to changing driving and road conditions.

The Camaro ZL1 convertible will also offer Performance Traction Management as standard equipment, which is exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, it is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control and electronic stability control, to enhance both launch-acceleration performance and corning.

The result is a convertible designed to preserve nearly all the acceleration, road-holding and performance capabilities of the Camaro ZL1 coupe, which goes on sale in early 2012.

Abu Dhabi Drag Racing School

Abu Dhabi: The Yas Drag Racing School is offering the public the chance to take a Chevrolet Camaro SS for a spin on a world-class drag racing strip in June.

The school has six Camaros on its fleet to help train future drag racers. Anyone with a driving licence can get behind the wheel of the iconic muscle car. Drivers will receive a safety briefing before taking a training run down the strip with a qualified drag racing instructor riding with them.

Instructor and student swap places for one run. If the instructor is satisfied with the student's technique and ability, he/she then gets six solo runs in the car.

Image Source: Mike McCracken's Camaro SS

"We wanted to give as many people as possible the chance to experience a true American muscle car on the drag strip," said Rashed Al Qubaisi, Head of the Yas Drag Racing Centre.

"Some people are reluctant to take their own cars to the strip [for fear] they [might] damage [their car's] clutch or the. Our new Yas Camaro Drag Race Experience allows them to enjoy the thrills of drag racing in a safe environment."

Here come da Judge?

Jalopnik tells is The Trans Am Depot is looking to manufacturer a Pontiac GTO Judge kit for the 5th Gen Chevrolet Camaros.  Conveniently titled The Goat 6T9, to avoid any copy-write  issues no doubt, this car is rumored to share performance modifications similar to the TransAm packages they offer.  Names like Eibach, KM, Katzkin & ProCharger to name a few.

6T9 Goat

The Trans Am Depot specializes in the design, fabrication and conversion of the 2011 Trans Am. Based on the Camaro platform, we will be offering a 6T9 version Trans Am, 6T9 Goat ("GTO"), 7T7 Trans Am and the limited edition Hurst T/A.

COPO Camaro making a return?

The 1969 COPO Chevrolet Camaro is one of the most sought after muscle cars of all time. C.O.P.O is the acronym for Central Office Production Order, and was the key to ordering a standard looking Camaro with a not-so-standard power train. This option put a 427 cubic inch Big Block Cevrolet motor under the hood. Rated at just 425 HP, this was a limited run and was available in a few configurations.

In 1969, there were three different COPO orders for a Camaro. Order #9560 and #9561 were almost the same cars, but #9560 had one big difference: The engine was all-aluminum, and that is the brutal ZL1. We know of two that have sold recently for $840,000 and $1.1 million respectively. COPO #9561 got you an iron engine block. The third COPO # was 9737, which was the so-called Sports Car Conversion with either engine available, a 140-mph speedometer and 15 x 7 Rally wheels. All COPOs were emissions-certified, carried both the 12/12 and 5/50 warranties and were street legal, even with the noisy optional chambered exhaust systems, which essentially had no mufflers.  source: Hemmings Motor News
 
It seems the famed COPO designation may be making a return to the Chevrolet for the new Camaro. After 40 years, you may be able to build (order) your own COPO Camaro shopping from a list of GM Performance Parts. Start out with a crate motor?  Suspension parts? Who knows. We are anxious to see what this develops into, stay tuned for details!

image source LSXTV.com

2012 Camaro 45th Anniversary Edition

2012 the forty-fifth year since Camaro first took the market by storm. What better way to mark this occasion than to introduce a number of changes for Camaro,including a special edition that celebrates this forty-fifth anniversary?!

Today, Chevrolet is introducing the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 45th Anniversary Edition. The 45th Anniversary Edition will be an option package (RPO: H45) available on 2LT and 2SS coupe and convertible models. The package features exclusive interior and exterior content in addition to the standard features found in 2LT and 2SS models.

The unique content in the 45th Anniversary Edition package includes:

• Carbon Flash Metallic exterior color
• Newly designed 20” Deep Silver painted aluminum wheels
• Brilliant Red and Medium Charcoal 45th Anniversary stripe package and side body logo
• The RS Package’s high-intensity discharge headlamps with LED “halo ring”
• Body-color roof ditch moldings on the coupe or black top on the convertible
• Black front leather-appointed seating surfaces with 45th Anniversary logo embroidered into the front seats
• Red, white and blue interior accent stitching
• White instrument and door panel inserts with 45th Anniversary logo present on the passenger side of the instrument panel insert

The 45th Anniversary Edition option package is scheduled to be available at the start of 2012 model run production, and is planned to be available for the entire model year run.

The unique body stripe kit

45th Anniversary specific wheels

Look at those seats!

The vintage red & blue Camaro colors

Another David Kimble original!

The attached hero card for the 45th Anniversary Edition and Press Release also highlights a number of improvements that will make their way into all 2012 Camaro models.

New for all 2012 Camaro models:

• Instrument panel redesign that includes additional design detailing; modified instrument cluster graphics and a new steering wheel with redundant controls
• Bluetooth connectivity for iPhone and Android platforms, standard on all models
• Six-way power seat adjuster for front passenger seat for all LT and SS models
• Redundant door lock switches located on both doors
• One year of XM Satellite Radio on 2LT and 2SS models
• Rear Vision Package (RPO: SRU) standard on 2LT and 2SS models, and available on 1LT and 1SS models that includes Rear Park Assist and Rear view Camera System with display in the auto-dimming rear view mirror.
• Rear spoiler standard on all models
• Shark-fin (XM/OnStar antenna) is now body-colored with the RS Exterior Appearance Package on all coupe models
• Crystal Red Tintcoat (RPO: GBE – extra cost and interim availability) replaces Red Jewel Tintcoat in the exterior color lineup
• FE4 Performance Suspension standard on all SS coupe models

In addition to these changes, all 2012 LS and LT Camaro models will be equipped with a new 3.6L V6 engine that features more horsepower while maintaining fuel efficiency.

With the planned production start of the 2012 Camaro ZL1 in the first quarter of 2012, and the changes and the new edition announced today, 2012 model year promises to be one of Camaro’s most memorable years in its forty-five year history.

Thanks to Camaro Scotty for the detailed information. Looking to buy a new Camaro or other Chevrolet? You can find Scott (Wisconsin's #1 Camaro Dealer - SLP AUTHORIZED DEALER) at www.camaroscotty.com

Camaro ZL1 6.2l supercharged motor uses deck plate honing

DETROIT – Deck plate honing a cylinder block, a precision-machining process typically reserved for high-performance engines, will be used on the Camaro ZL1 6.2L supercharged V8, helping maximize engine life, reduce friction between engine parts and increase horsepower.

Deck plate honing refers to a machining process in which aluminum plates, sometimes called torque plates, are clamped to the block, simulating the cylinder heads, before the final bore and hone of the cylinders takes place. The clamp load of 10 bolts per head creates normal, minute distortions in the block and thus makes the bore slightly out-of-perfect shape or cylindricity.

While the simulated cylinder heads, or deck plates, are attached to the block, a boring machine does its work boring, and then honing each cylinder. Later, when the actual cylinder heads are assembled to the block under identical torque loads, the cylinder bores are near perfect for the engine’s lifetime of piston travel up and down in the bore up to 6,200 times a minute.

“It amazes me what GM does with some of their production engines,” said Andy Randolph, engine technical director at Earnhardt-Childress Racing. “Deck plating is a time-consuming process that fine tunes the bore to get every ounce of power, torque and durability possible. It’s standard practice when building high-end race engines. It tells me the Camaro ZL1 will have some serious performance.”

The deck plating process is used in applications where cylinder head pressures are greater than average, to ensure cylinder sealing and prevent scuffing of the piston against the bore wall. In the Camaro LSA engine, this means improved bore life and ring sealing. True bores and better sealing are keys to optimizing power. This is a common process also used with the Corvette ZR1 and Z06 blocks.

The deck plate bore-and-hone process uses billet aluminum plates with steel bolt sleeves for compression limitation. The plate’s bolt attachment points have the same height and clamp loads as the actual cylinder heads. The LSA cylinder block is made of 319T7 aluminum and has cast-in-place cast iron cylinder bore liners. The final honing process brings the final 103.25 mm (4.06 inches) bores to within a tolerance of eight microns or .00031 of an inch. The deck plates remain installed for the final honing of the crankshaft bores.

video and release from GM News

Introducing the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

CHICAGO – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 debuted today at the Chicago Auto Show. It is the highest-performing Camaro and the most technically advanced car ever developed in its class. The new ZL1 continues the momentum of Camaro, propelling it into an entirely new realm of leading-edge performance technology. It is planned to launch at the beginning of 2012.

Motivated by a supercharged V-8 engine producing an estimated 550 horsepower (410 kW), the Camaro ZL1 will be the fastest Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. And more than just power, the ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems that help it deliver balanced, track-ready handling and braking power to complement its high engine output. Rigorous development of the ZL1 is ongoing, and official estimates of the car’s capabilities will be released later in 2011, as testing nears completion.

“Camaro ZL1 is about high-tech performance and design, and is a type of car no one has ever brought to this segment previously,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “It’s the most technically advanced Camaro ever, so we’ve chosen a name from the most elite and exclusive Camaro in history.”

The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminum racing engine of the same name, which was developed in the late 1960s and installed into a handful of regular-production 1969 Camaros. Only 69 were built with the engine, but they’ve achieved mythical status among enthusiasts, as they represented the pinnacle in Camaro performance – until now. The 2012 ZL1 model is designed to be a major leap forward for the Camaro, bringing a new level of performance capability to the segment.

The central goal of the car’s development was creating something new – a Camaro intended to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and excellent driving dynamics on the street. To achieve that goal, engineers evolved many of the existing Camaro’s systems, as well as incorporated new technologies such as electric power steering and Magnetic Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension system.

Camaro ZL1’s design communicates and supports its performance mission. Rather than using decorative elements, ZL1 is visually differentiated from other current Camaro models with elements vital to the car’s elevated capabilities.

“Everything about the ZL1’s design is directly related to its technology and serious performance, especially aerodynamics,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. “Our designers’ goal was to execute that function-oriented design with beautifully sculpted forms, creating an imposing, powerful persona. Function becomes the aesthetic. The intent is a car that delivers on the attitude it projects.”

Major elements of the ZL1’s design are a new front fascia and hood with air extractors, designed in tandem to create aerodynamic downforce to aid handling. The car’s hood includes a signature center section constructed of carbon fiber and rendered in satin black finish. New rocker panels, wide tires, 20-inch wheels and exhaust tips portray the car’s handling and power.

The ZL1 badge appears on the grille, hood and the brake calipers, all key areas portraying the technology within.

Tech overview

Supporting the dynamic track and street performance of the ZL1 is the LSA 6.2L supercharged engine, which will produce an estimated 550 horsepower (410kW) and 550 lb.-ft. of torque (677 Nm), with specific features for the Camaro. Built on GM’s legendary all-aluminum, small-block V-8 architecture, the LSA features an intercooled supercharger system, premium heat-resistant aluminum-alloy cylinder heads and other details designed to ensure its exceptional performance is delivered with smoothness and refinement. Components and design elements that contribute to the LSA’s performance include:

• Balanced, lightweight reciprocating assembly
• High-strength hypereutectic pistons
• Sixth-generation Eaton supercharger with four-lobe rotors
• Piston oil squirters.

Because the Camaro ZL1 uses electric power steering, the engine does not incorporate a conventional hydraulic power steering pump on its accessory drive system. This enhances performance, because no engine power is used to turn a steering pump pulley.

Camaro ZL1 is a complete high-performance car, not just a Camaro with more power. Key technical highlights include:

Transmission – The high-performance Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual is matched with the LSA engine. It is the “MG9” version of the transmission, with a higher torque capacity. It is used with a dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch for easy operation and shift smoothness. A new, shorter-throw shifter actuates the gear changes.

Exhaust – ZL1 is equipped with a dual-mode exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm. First used on the legendary Corvette, and specifically tuned for Camaro ZL1, the dual-mode exhaust will give the car a signature sound.

Drivetrain – It is revised with a stronger driveshaft and rear axle system, featuring a larger and stronger cast iron differential housing, stronger axles and heavy-duty limited-slip differential. This patent-pending system is designed to ensure that ZL1’s tremendous power is delivered smoothly to the ground.

Suspension – The suspension features completely revised tuning and the inclusion of segment-exclusive Magnetic Ride Control. ZL1’s Magnetic Ride system will include driver selectable modes (Tour and Sport) tailored for the preferred style of driving. It uses advanced magneto-rheological science to produce shock damping with the highest level of precision, enabling body control optimized for excellent performance in everyday driving as well as track situations. This technology appears on only a small roster of some of the world’s finest performance cars. Other chassis elements are redesigned to support the car’s high-performance limits. Rear stabilizer bars have drop links repositioned outboard of the control arms. This makes the bars more effective in controlling body roll in turns, with crisp response to driver commands.

Brakes and Steering – Camaro ZL1 features an advanced track-capable braking system, developed in conjunction with experts from Brembo. The large 14.6-inch (370 mm) two-piece front rotors have six-piston calipers; the 14.4-inch (365 mm) rear rotors have four-piston calipers. ZL1 marks the entry of a new electric power steering system to Camaro. It is being developed to ensure precise control and feedback to the driver, with greater variability of effort for high-performance driving.

Exterior – ZL1’s signature from the front is the redesigned fascia and aluminum hood with a raised, carbon fiber insert. The fascia includes a front splitter and new vertical fog lamps. The fog lamp area includes air intakes designed for brake cooling. The hood features front-mounted air extractors that direct air precisely over the car. Visually, this center section, in satin black carbon fiber, communicates the car’s high-performance intent as a visual contrast to the car’s exterior color. Functionally, the air extractor is a key in connecting airflow closely to the bodywork, creating aerodynamic downforce. The carbon fiber center section reduces the mass of the hood.  High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and fog lamps are standard. The rear of the car includes a diffuser and spoiler, also functional elements that enhance the car’s aerodynamics.

Wheels and Tires – New-design, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, which are lighter than the 20-inch wheels used on the Camaro SS, are used with new Goodyear Supercar F2 ties developed specifically for the ZL1.

Interior – ZL1 is tailored for high-performance driving. The front seats feature microfiber suede inserts. Other enhancements include a redesigned steering wheel, alloy pedals, Head-Up Display with unique performance readouts and the “four-pack” auxiliary gauge system featuring a boost readout.

Production details

All of the Camaro exterior colors will be offered with the ZL1, but black is the only interior color. The unique exterior features are complemented with a black center section on the hood. Inside, the Camaro ZL1 has heated leather seats with microfiber inserts and ZL1 logos embroidered on the front headrests. Microfiber suede is repeated as an accent on the instrument panel, adding a richer look to the interior. The ZL1 will include the same content as the current 2SS package and include the following new or unique features:

• Six-way power driver and passenger seats
• Unique instrument panel and door panel inserts; and ZL1-logo sill plates
• Steering wheel audio controls with Bluetooth capability
• Wireless PDIM and USB-port
• Boston Acoustics premium audio system
• Rear parking assist
• Rear camera system (displayed in the inside rearview mirror).

Engineers have already driven Camaro ZL1 prototypes extensively at demanding road courses in the U.S. and Germany, with final testing being completed through the balance of 2011.

	2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
	Learn about the Camaro ZL1 Performance Car | Follow on Twitter | Facebook

Source: GM News

2011 Performance edition Camaros

As the NAIAS gets underway, cyberspace is a buzz over some alleged discussions a bout the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro HP edition (aka Z-28?).   While the Z-28 name/rpo has not been specifically mentioned, there are plenty of pictures of supercharged (or we think) Camaros running around places like Arizona and Nurburgring letting us know a high performance version is coming, perhaps sooner than later?  Most discussed are things like the super-charged 6.2l power plant with about 550 HP (circa Cadillac V-Series), Magnetic ride control, special hood and other external treatments. I would hope the interior gets a few special touches as well.

Also on the board for the 2011 model year appears to be a 45th Anniversary edition due to showrooms later this summer. 

With 2010 SEMA Camaros like Red Flash, Black, Synergy, SSX Track Car,  we all know GM has quite a few plans for the Camaro. 

Have we already seen the next Camaro Z-28? Maybe so.

2012 Camaro 330 HP LFX V6

With one of the hottest selling cars on the planet, GM is not standing still with the Chevrolet Camaro. Word is out about a new 330HP V6 planned for the 2012 Camaro, code name "LFX". This possible power train would be based on the LF1 V6 motor found in the Cadillac CTS, SRX and the Chevrolet Equinox.
 

This new V6 would have dual-overhead cams, variable valve timing, spark-ignition direct injection and be E85 compatible. These improvements could add up 330HP and more than likely, even better fuel mileage.

Put this in the base model Camaro and the Ford Mustang would have even more catching up to do in the pony car race.

2012 Camaro to get new tail lamps and side mirrors?

An alert photographer captured what is believed to be a Camaro featuring a new style of rear LED tail lamps and side view mirrors.  Personally I'd stick with the 2010-2011 tails and mirrors.

The tail lamps look like something out of a JC Whitney catalog and the mirrors look like an old truck with big chrome bolt on trailer mirrors on each side. If dumbo was a Camaro...

As much as we know a mild facelift is coming soon, lets hope these are only test parts on this particular Camaro.

MotorTrend has some other great shots of this car.

What  are  your thoughts?

2012 Camaro Z28 caught testing in San Diego

The future Chevrolet Camaro Z28 has been caught testing again, this time somewhere in San Diego. The car is expected to be unveiled in 2011, with sales to begin in 2012.

Under the hood there will be GM’s 6.2-liter supercharged V8
that produces 556HP and that was also used in the Cadillac CTS-V. Stopping power will come from the 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers.

The 2012 Camaro Z28, already confirmed by GM will be will be distinguished by enlarged air intakes at the extreme, a larger bubble on the hood to make room for the supersized engine, quad exhaust with dual pipes on each side, rims inspired by the ones from the CTS-V, and 20" SP550 anodized black (20×10 in the front and 20×11 in the rear) wrapped in Goodyear tires.

Source: TopSpeed.com