Yeah, you heard it. Chevy has finally unveiled the latest edition of its storied vehicle, which would make every pony car enthusiast anticipate with much excitement. After getting laid out of commission back in 02, it is coming out its hiatus, all geared up and ready to strut it wares.
For the past few months, Chevy has hinted that the comeback of the Camaro sport coupe would arrive in January of next year as a 2009 model. However, Chevrolet general manager Ed Peper clarified that it will go into production in February of next year and won’t be in showrooms until March 2009, as a 2010 model. The company confirmed these plans after some flamboyant concept previews at the 2006 and 2007 Detroit Auto Shows. With over two years of making so much noise, it is likely that this project will push through.
Peper indicated that it will initially make public at least two coupe models-V6 and V8, with a choice of a 400-plus-hp, 6.0-liter V-8 or a 300-plus-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, perhaps called RS and SS, respectively. Engine power for the base models will most likely come from one of GM's DOHC V6s, while the higher spec versions will get a version of the LS3 V8 currently found in the Corvette. So basically expect the same engine lineup as the Pontiac G8. The convertible will arrive at the end of 2009 but as a 2010 model as well.
Scheduled to share the stage with its All-American brothers – the Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang, the Chevy Camaro offers a fully independent suspension, which is similar to that of a Dodge, compared with the Ford's live rear axle. This celebrated pony car will offer an option of 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions. The Camaro convertible, on the other hand, will take inherit some thunder from its 1969 model, making it look sleeker and more modern compared to the Mustang and the Challenger.
The interior component of the Camaro will be a mix of both modern and retro touches. The most evident relationship among the old and new will be the huge analog instruments behind the wheel and quad gauges in the center console, just like the 1969 model. The standard features will most probably include XM Satellite Radio, leather seats and remote keyless entry.
Now I’m sure most of you are already guessing about the price range of these goodies. Chevy is looking to keep base prices in the $20,000–$30,000 bracket, while the convertible model could be in the mid to upper $40,000 range. The range looks a bit more practical even if you don’t have a set of Rolexes, Berluti shoes and Dolce shirts in your closet. According to Peper, Chevy’s anticipating around 100,000 sales per year once the Convertible hits the market so you won’t have to worry about being left behind.
This resurgence was prompted by General Motors when the 2005 Mustang proved to be a success in the market. Although many people doubt if there’s a potential market for this one, just having the Camaro legacy continued is enough to put a big smile on the faces of Chevy aficionados. But hey, the way I see it, it sure looks like we have a hit.
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