Autoblog

Rumormill: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro equipped with 330-hp LFX V6

Chris Shunk — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Chevrolet, GM, Rumormill

Chevrolet Camaro RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the V6-powered 2011 Ford Mustang arrived with 305 horsepower - one more pony than the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro - the engineers at General Motors didn't take long to up their power quotient to 312 hp. Camaro5 reports that GM has no intention of resting on its seven pony victory, as the 2012 Camaro will received an updated 3.6-liter mill capable of 325-330 horsepower.

The rumored engine will reportedly carry the LFX designation, with the same direct injection, variable valve timing and dual overhead cams as the 2011 model, but that's not all. The rumored LFX also lists "E85 MAX" as a technology, giving the updated engine the ability to burn ethanol as its primary fuel. So how does E85 equal 330 horsepower? It doesn't, really, but the folks at Camaro5 estimate the new number based off the improvements made to the 270 horsepower 3.0L LF1 V6 (in the same engine family as the current 3.6-liter V6) that currently resides under the hood of several GM products. So if 3.0-liters equals 270 horsepower, then 3.6 liters can somehow net you somewhere between 325 and 330 ponies.

Okay, so A² plus B² divided by unicorn dust somehow equals 330 horsepower? That's not exactly the scientific method, but at least one forum poster claims that the LFX will also carry larger heads and exhaust valves, a new "tunable" ECM and a revised intake manifold. We have no idea how accurate any of this information is, but Camaro5 has a pretty good track record when it comes to Bowtie scoops, and we'll be more than happy to welcome a 330-hp V6 Camaro if this turns out to be true. Hat tip to Rick!

Gallery: The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS

Photos copyright (C)2011 Alex Núñez / AOL

[Source: Camaro5]

Rumormill: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro equipped with 330-hp LFX V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bulgarian tuner Vilner kicks the Chevy Camaro's interior up a few notches

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 04:59:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Europe, Chevrolet, Luxury

The Vilner Chevrolet Camaro - Click either image for high-res image gallery

You can admit it: None of you thought "the perfect Camaro" would come from Bulgarian tuner Nasko Vilner. Neither did we. Vilnus owns a company that designs vehicle interiors, and as the first Bulgarian with a 2010 Chevy Camaro - a V6 manual - he decided he needed to do something special with it.

Vilner has focused his efforts inside, slathering just about everything in Nubuck and Nappa, with accent lighting and hints of chrome here and there, like the filigreed door handle. He didn't leave the outside completely alone, swapping the front brakes for eight-piston units and switching LEDs for the halogens. It won't be to everyone's taste, but it's ain't half bad and the workmanship appears to be top notch. It's also got one of the best intros to a press release we've read in a while. You'll find that after the jump, and a gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Vilner Chevrolet Camaro

[Source: Vilner]

Continue reading Bulgarian tuner Vilner kicks the Chevy Camaro's interior up a few notches

Bulgarian tuner Vilner kicks the Chevy Camaro's interior up a few notches originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 04:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Fifth Gear rips it up in Chevrolet Camaro SS

Chris Shunk — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 14:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Videos, Chevrolet, UK

Fifth Gear hangs out with the Chevrolet Camaro SS - Click above to watch after the jump

The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro has been in U.S. dealerships for over a year now, and demand for Chevy's newest pony car has been strong from the get-go. And though the Camaro is based off the Australian Zeta platform and built in Oshawa, Canada, it still rocks a Bowtie badge and carries a 6.2-liter small block V8 under the hood. That makes the Camaro an American pony car in our book; one that will (finally) officially go on sale in England early next year.

But before our allies to the east get a chance to pick up a Camaro of their own, Fifth Gear host Jason Plato took the reins of a Bumblebee-flavored Camaro out on the track. Hit the jump to watch Plato show no mercy to the 3,860-pound coupe. In typical UK-reviewer-on-American-car-ese, we definitely hear words like "lazy" and "heavy," but Plato still looks like a very happy man behind the wheel. If you like smoking tires, oversteer and burnouts you'll definitely like this video.

Gallery: 2010 Chevy Camaro SS

[Source: Fifth Gear via Camaro5]

Continue reading Video: Fifth Gear rips it up in Chevrolet Camaro SS

Video: Fifth Gear rips it up in Chevrolet Camaro SS originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: 2010 Chevy Camaro SS gets switched on hydraulics

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:09:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Etc., Videos, Chevrolet

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS with the switches - Click above to watch video after the jump

Chevrolet products are no strangers to hydraulics, but models that get the height-altering technology usually go by names like Impala or Caprice, not Camaro - and they are usually decades old, not 2010 models.

We say 'usually' because apparently an Arizona lad has gone and thrown some extra pistons underneath his gunmetal gray Camaro SS, and the result is a pony car that goes from limbo to lofty in a couple of secs. It nothing else, we can't help but think it'd make a great doppelganger Decepticon for Transformers 3. Follow the jump to check out the vid, but sadly, there's no three-wheel motion on display

[Source: YouTube via Tampa Examiner]

Continue reading Video: 2010 Chevy Camaro SS gets switched on hydraulics

Video: 2010 Chevy Camaro SS gets switched on hydraulics originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 May 2010 15:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Custom Chevrolet Camaro is ultimate tribute to fallen servicemen

Zach Bowman — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:29:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Budget, Performance, Chevrolet, Design/Style

Tribute 2010 Chevrolet Camaro - Click above for high-res image gallery

On Christmas day, 2007, Constandina Tutten was informed that her husband, Army Sergeant Joseph Tutten had been killed in the line of duty in Iraq. Sgt. Tutten was a squad leader with the 82nd Airborne, and had fallen to an IED while helping to clear Tikrit of insurgents. After hearing Tutten's story, Camaro5 member TheSpyMaster enlisted the help of a few others to help create a tribute 2010 Chevorlet Camaro in honor of anyone who has given their lives in service to this country.

What started as a simple customization with aftermarket wheels and smoked taillight lenses grew into an all-out show car. New scissor doors and a wild body kit helped nab the Camaro top honors at a few local car shows, but that wasn't enough for TheSpyMaster. The guy topped the whole thing off with a complete American-themed vinyl wrap.

While the look won't be for everyone, you have to respect TheSpyMaster's dedication in his efforts to get America's service men and women the respect and honor they deserve. Check out a smattering of images in our gallery below, but be sure to head on over to Camaro5 for the fully monty.

Gallery: Tribute 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

[Source: Camaro5]

Custom Chevrolet Camaro is ultimate tribute to fallen servicemen originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Camaro5Fest largest gathering yet of new Chevy ponycar owners

Zach Bowman — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 18:39:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet

2010 Camaro5 Gathering - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last weekend, Camaro5 sponsored the world's largest gathering of fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaros and their owners in Valdosta, Georgia. Over 1,000 ~~of the cars~~ fans and 500 cars (Thanks, Chris!) descended on the town, and Chevrolet itself stopped by for the shindig. The company brought along a few treats for the crowd, including folks like Al Oppenheiser, Peter Kosak, John Fitzpatrick and Cheryl Pilcher - all names tied to bringing the car to life.

Not only did members of the Camaro team show up to meet the crowd and answer a few questions, but a ~~heavily camo'd~~ 2011 Camaro, VIN 002, was brought along as well. Attendees also got to drive through Valdosta in one big parade - a stunt that resulted in a line of 2010 Camaros three miles long. At the end of the drive, Camaro5 hosted drag races, autocross events and a car show at South Georgia Motorsports Park. Sounds like a good time to us, a fact proven in the high-res image gallery below. Hop the jump for a peep at the press release.

Gallery: Camaro5 Gathering

[Source: Camaro5 via GM]

Continue reading Camaro5Fest largest gathering yet of new Chevy ponycar owners

Camaro5Fest largest gathering yet of new Chevy ponycar owners originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inside Line runs the numbers on 2011 Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro V6 models

Zach Bowman — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Performance, Chevrolet, Ford, GM

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Before your palms get all sweaty, let's be clear - the boys and girls at Inside Line have put the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro LT and the base 2011 Ford Mustang toe-to-toe. This isn't the big bad SS vs GT throwdown the world has been clamoring for, but that's fine by us. Both models dish out over 300 horsepower, and when it comes right down to it, there will be more V6 engines battling it out in high school parking lots that V8s.

So how'd they do? The big-boned Camaro V6, complete with its 3,790-pound curb weight, managed to dish out a 6.1-second 0-60 mph run, a 14.3-second quarter-mile time and .86 g on the skidpad. Coming down from 60 mph, the Bowtie delivered a stopping distance of 111.78 feet. Those are all solid numbers, to be sure, but they don't quite stack up to what Ford brought to the table with its pony.

The Mustang is a considerably smaller car in nearly every way, and right off the bat, it has 282 fewer pounds to lug around. With a curb weight of 3,508 pounds, the Mustang clicked off a 5.6-second 0-60 mph sprint, a 13.9-second quarter-mile and .91 g on the skidpad. Can you say "smoked?" Throw in 60-0 mph in 103 feet, and it's clear Ford wanted to ensure that the 'Stang not only puts the hurt on its arch rival from General Motors, but it's also clear that the Blue Oval was seeking to build a solid all-around performer.

Before the Chevrolet faithful start clamoring about price, it should be noted that both cars fall within $1,000 of each other. The General clearly has a lot of work to do before the 2011 models roll out, but we have it on good authority that their engineers are hard at work. Fortunately for enthusiasts, this clearly isn't the end-all, be-all... it's just the latest volley.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6

Gallery: The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS

[Source: Inside Line]

Inside Line runs the numbers on 2011 Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro V6 models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is the Chevrolet Camaro cannibalizing sales of the Corvette?

Chris Shunk — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, GM

Last year was brutal for the auto industry, with sales down by 21 percent versus 2008. Sports cars were hit even harder, as many customers shied away from spending big dollars on what typically amounts to a second or third vehicle. The Chevrolet Corvette was no different, as America's sports car saw sales plummet 48 percent versus 2008 - the worst year for Vette sales in nearly 50 years. But was the drop in Corvette sales because of the economy, or its new pony car stablemate, the Camaro?

Wards Automotive claims that web data shows the number one competitor to the Vette isn't something like the Nissan GT-R or Porsche 911 - it's the reborn Camaro. But who in their right mind would cross-shop a track-ready thoroughbred with near supercar performance and a relative bargain price tag against the heavier, less agile, less exclusive Camaro? Apparently a lot of people. The Camaro had a rather remarkable 2009, with 61,648 units sold in its first year back. The new Bowtie coupe even managed to beat out the Mustang the last seven months of the year and came within 5,000 sales of besting Ford's iconic steed despite the fact that the Camaro didn't go on sale until spring.

With the economy still on the rocks, we're thinking there may have been some customers who noticed that the Camaro has the same V8 engine as a base model Corvette, seating for four and a price of entry that starts some $18,000 lower than Chevy's halo car. The Camaro is also a fresh face for the 2010 model year after an eight-year hiatus from the market, while the C6 Vette is now on its sixth year of production, and despite frankly incredible variants like the Grand Sport, ZR1 and just-announced Z06 Carbon, Chevy's top dog is getting a little long-in-the-tooth.

Either way, it's hard to argue with the fact that having two high performance, rear-wheel-drive vehicles in the same showroom is going to mean that there will be some cross-shopping. We're not complaining, though, because choice is a good thing, especially when the options are as nice as these two.

[Source: Wards Automotive | Image: Joe Raedle/Getty]

Is the Chevrolet Camaro cannibalizing sales of the Corvette? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: GM builds 100,000th Chevrolet Camaro

Sam Abuelsamid — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:37:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS - Click above for high-res image gallery

No matter which side of the Mustang/Camaro divide you fall on there's no arguing that Chevrolet's reborn entrant in the pony car wars has been a hit. It's been less than a year since production of the 2010 Camaro began at General Motors' Oshawa assembly and the 100,000th example rolled off the line this week. The milestone car was reportedly an inferno orange SS.

Ever since last June, the Camaro has been outselling its chief rival,, the Mustang, despite the Mustang's refresh at around the time of the Camaro launch. Ford, however, left out one important aspect in the 2010 redesign, the powertrains. That oversight has been addressed for the 2011 model year, and the Ford vs. Chevy battle begins anew next month. That's when 2011 Mustangs will start rolling off the line with power on par with the Camaro, along with the significantly better interiors that carry over from 2010. We'll be watching this horse race very carefully over the rest of this year. Hat tip to Henry!

Gallery: Review: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS

[Source: Camaro5]

Report: GM builds 100,000th Chevrolet Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Chevy Camaro convertible contract goes to Magna, 20,000 units per year expected

Chris Shunk — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:31:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM

Chevrolet Camaro Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors and Magna may weren't exactly seeing eye to eye when the Canadian supplier failed in its efforts to purchase Opel from The General, but the two companies are obviously still on speaking terms. Automotive News reports that Magna's Car Top Systems group has won the convertible contract for the Chevrolet Camaro. The General is reportedly expecting the droptop Camaro to account for 20,000 sales annually, matching the Ford Mustang as the top convertible sold in the States.

While Magna is the latest supplier to win the Camaro convertible bid it, isn't the first. Edscha AG originally won the contract, but the abysmal state of the convertible car market in the U.S. contributed to the German supplier filing for insolvency. And when we say the market for convertibles was bad in 2009, we're talking flat-line, bag it and tag it bad. Fewer than 50,000 convertibles were sold during the year, compared with over 200,000 sales only four years ago. GM switched the contract to the far healthier Magna to ensure that production of the upcoming Camaro variant isn't delayed. Magna will reportedly build the Camaro tops at GM's Corvette plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky with materials from Mexico.

It's hard to say if the Camaro will keep enough momentum in the next year to make 20,000 convertibles possible, but we're guessing a droptop version of the Bowtie pony car may well be the right recipe for keeping the Camaro lineup fresh. Now, about that Z28...

Gallery: Camaro Convertible Concept

Gallery: Chevy Camaro Convertible Concept

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Report: Chevy Camaro convertible contract goes to Magna, 20,000 units per year expected originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chevrolet debuts Synergy Green Camaro

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: SEMA Show, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, Design/Style

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Synergy Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

The history of the Chevrolet Camaro is littered with bold styling options and even bolder colors. "Bold" doesn't always equal "good," but there have been a lot of both since the 1967 introduction of Chevrolet's original pony car. At SEMA this year, we saw more custom Camaros than we thought possible, a few of them done up by General Motors itself. The General even promised that we'd see some of those Camaro option packs on the regular production models in the future. One special Camaro that really caught our eye was the Synergy, mainly because of its eye-popping green paint.

Today, Chevy has made good on its promise to offer those SEMA-special touches to the masses by officially announcing the release of the Camaro Synergy Special Edition. We have no idea why GM's announcement wasn't part of media days at the Detroit Auto Show, but regardless, the Synergy will be available from February to May with a starting price of $26,790. It's based on the 1LT, with its 304-horsepower, 3.6-liter, direct-injection V6. You can get it with the six-speed stick or an automatic, but the bespoke, specially-stitched shift knob will assuredly feel better when shifting for yourself.

The Synergy Green exterior color will be unique to this limited run and comes with Cyber Grey Rally Stripes, a rear spoiler, 19-inch painted wheels, Synergy Green instrument panel, door inserts and stitching. Synergy buyers will also pocket the Camaro Convenience and Connectivity Package, which add Bluetooth, USB port and remote vehicle start on slushbox models. By our estimation, that's a lot of content and a lot of green for not a lot of green.Gallery below and press release after the jump.

Gallery: Detroit 2010: Chevrolet Camaro Synergy

Gallery: Synergy Green Camaro

[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading Chevrolet debuts Synergy Green Camaro

Chevrolet debuts Synergy Green Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: 2010 Camaro UNC Tarheels Edition is for diehards only

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Videos, Chevrolet

UNC Tarheels Edition 2010 Chevrolet Camaro - Click above to watch the video

Many of us Autobloggers went to colleges that cultivated rabid alumni, but having seen this 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, our graduates were amateurs. In fact, we didn't realize you could love college, or its title-winning basketball team, so much. But a CarDomain forum member called "QuMongous" loves him some University of North Carolina Tarheels, and put his car in the game to prove it. Argyle pinstripes, his school's logo on the door, a hand-painted mascot on the rear quarters, and massive blue Dubs with UNC center caps have made this muscle car a tailgating hero. And wait until you see the back window.

Day-um. That's all we have to say. Follow the jump to see a walkaround of the car. And to you Tarheels players, you owe this guy another championship.

[Source: Tampa Sports Car Examiner]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Camaro UNC Tarheels Edition is for diehards only

VIDEO: 2010 Camaro UNC Tarheels Edition is for diehards only originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM responds to more Camaro transmission failure talk on enthusiast forum

Chris Paukert — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, GM

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Back in July, we first told you about a serious driveline issue that was cropping up in Chevrolet's new-for-2010 Camaro. In specific, output shafts were failing on V8 manual transmission SS models, a malady that was generally tied to hard launches or use of the car's launch control system. The problem eventually resulted in General Motors conducting some warranty repairs and briefly issuing a factory hold of the SS while it fixed the problem, and as far as we knew, that was that.

That was the last we heard of the issue until AB reader Billie informed us that talks regarding output shaft failure were once again heating up over at the owner discussion forums of Camaro5.com - so much so that GM's own John Fitzpatrick, the marketing manager of Chevrolet's performance cars, chimed in with a statement on behalf of the automaker, the text of which you can read after the break.

Basically, Fitzpatrick says that after a review of the issue, GM is confident that failure rates "under normal driving conditions are very low... even in the most extreme driving condition, the probability of failure does not significantly change." In any case, Fitzpatrick assures that GM will continue to stand behind their five-year/100,000 mile warranty coverage.

For the most part, it seems like Fitzpatrick's comments have assuaged the concerned parties on Camaro5 (there are definitely still a few disgruntled folks), but if nothing else, it's nice to see another example of an automaker wading into the internet fray to directly address customer issues.

Gallery: One Night Stand: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Photos Copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source, Camaro5.com]

Continue reading GM responds to more Camaro transmission failure talk on enthusiast forum

GM responds to more Camaro transmission failure talk on enthusiast forum originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: The coolest CG car vid you'll see today

Chris Shunk — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Videos, Design/Style

Click above to watch the video after the jump

We've seen plenty of car-related videos of our time, and we've posted on quite a few of them on Autoblog. The clips are usually informative, offer a sneak peak of a future product, or they're just plain funny, but one thing we've never done is showcase a reader's demo reel, until today. Why? Because after the jump is one of the sweetest home-grown car videos in the history of geeks playing with CGI software.

The video features a Chevrolet Camaro, a Ford Shelby Mustang, a Jeep Grand Cherokee and - wait for it - a Vaz 2107. The supposed theme of the video is that some spiked orb thing ascends down from above, shooting pure, Spider Man 3-like evil upon the four unsuspecting vehicles. Once the vehicles become infected with this black plague, they get all bad and dark and stuff. Then a Black Hawk flies into the picture just for the added cool and hangs out with the souped up, shiny black cars. It's all kind of Mad Hatter if you ask us, but it's also completely freaking cool. Hollywood production quality cool. Music and sound effects are outstanding as well. Nicely done, Pantural, whoever you are. Thanks to all who sent in tips!

[Source: Pantural via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: The coolest CG car vid you'll see today

VIDEO: The coolest CG car vid you'll see today originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: We expected a Camaro Convertible, but got two

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Convertible, Performance, Chevrolet

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible by Drop Top Customs - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we received the press release from Drop Top Customs saying that they would be bringing a Camaro convertible to SEMA, we could hardly contain ourselves. Ever since the Camaro Concept was first shown some way too many years ago, we've been expecting a droptop version as well. General Motors has had a lot on their plate lately and we consider ourselves lucky that we've even got the coupe now. With things starting to change at the top within the GM brass though, we fully expect things to change at the top of this classic bit of American iron as well.

Right now, unfortunately, a genuine factory convertible isn't available, so it's up to the aftermarket to fill that need. Drop Top's droptop looked like a decent attempt from the early pics but we wanted to see it in person before we really signed off on it. We knew it would be here at SEMA but it took us a while to find it. The odd thing is that we found another Camaro convertible first. We eventually found the Drop Top, which you see above, though too.

The yellow car looked pretty much like the photos we had seen earlier, except that it was real and sitting in front of us finally. The conversion seems really well done. We know it's hard for any aftermarket firm to match the level of development that the automaker itself can do, but these guys are experts at building chop-top vehicles. If you have to have a Camaro convertible and you simply cannot wait for Chevy to produce one of their own, then this might be a good option. Of course there is at least one other option as well, as we found out when we canvassed the show's North Hall.

A black Camaro convertible was also on display, featuring a large chrome grille and Forgiato wheels. This conversion was done by Newport Convertible and seems roughly as good as the Drop Top job. The top mechanism looks like it fits pretty low in the rear deck and the materials seem top notch, just like on the yellow car. Newport didn't have a full boot fitted, but it looked professional, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. We didn't get a chance to see either with their tops up (or in motion), however, so we still need to reserve final judgment. In the meantime, just know that there are now two convertible Camaro options for those who absolutely, positively need a Camaro convertible today. Check out our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Camaro convertible conversions

SEMA 2009: We expected a Camaro Convertible, but got two originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Chevrolet Camaro attracts all types, including 101-year-old Virgil Coffman

Chris Shunk — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Videos, Chevrolet, GM

Click above to watch the video after the jump

Close your eyes and try to envision the typical 2010 Chevrolet Camaro owner. We're guessing there weren't many of you imagined a cane-touting Centenarian, but that didn't stop Virgil Coffman from picking up a 400 horsepower Transformers Edition Camaro SS as his new joy ride. Coffman purchased his bright yellow pony car from Miles Chevrolet in Decatur, Illinois, but only after talking to dealer management. The dealership wanted to make sure Coffman was sharp enough to operate the modern muscle car, and management went away feeling that their elder was still "bright eyed and bushy tailed."

We're thinking that it would be pretty unlikely that any dealership is going to pass up on a $35,000 sale given the state of the industry, but after watching the video recreating his trip to the dealership, Virgil sure seems to be on top of things. Hit the jump to hear why Coffman purchased his hot new Camaro. We're thinking we need to eat what this guy is eating.

Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition

[Source: General Motors via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Chevrolet Camaro attracts all types, including 101-year-old Virgil Coffman

VIDEO: Chevrolet Camaro attracts all types, including 101-year-old Virgil Coffman originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: Yenko Camaro cuts through the aftermarket fog

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:20:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Coupe, Performance

Yenko Camaro - Click above for high-res image gallery

There a lot of new Camaros here at SEMA. In fact, depending upon your depth of exhaustion, residual blood-alcohol level from last night and general brain-deadedness, you might be forgiven for thinking that every other car here is a Camaro. And some of them, well, ain't so great. Useless ground effects packages, 24-inch wheels, shoddy workmanship and terrible eye-searing colors are your bag, man. That said, some Camaros do manage to cut through the crap using simple tools like quality and understatement. May we present to you the new Yenko Camaro, a quiet, big stick-carrying badass in a sea of noise.

Now, as we previously pointed out, this is the Phase I Yenko - meaning that instead of sporting a 427 cid like Yenko 'Maros of yore, the new one has a supercharged version of GM's LS3, the 6.2-liter V8 that comes standard with the Camaro SS. Purists (can Yenko fans be considered purists?) might grouse and claim a non-427 is lame, but we'll say two things on the matter. First, the supercharged LS3 will make at least 600 horsepower. Nothing lame about that. Second, Phase II and Phase III Yenkos are coming and you can bet they'll have Z06-sourced LS7 427, tuned to who knows how high. And, judging by the competition, an LS9 Yenko isn't out of the question.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: 2010 Yenko Camaro

SEMA 2009: Yenko Camaro cuts through the aftermarket fog originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: Jay Leno Camaro a pre-emptive strike against EcoBoost 'Stang

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, Ford, Celebrities

2010 Chevrolet Jay Leno Camaro - Click above for high-res image gallery

What do you get the guy who has everything? For SEMA 2009, GM decided to go with the less-is-more approach and built Jay Leno his own special Camaro... with less. Less cylinders at any rate, as this V6 special more than makes up for its lack of firing pots by adding a pair of turbochargers.

The 3.6-liter direct-injected V6 is otherwise similar to the unit that resides in run-of-the-mill Camaro LS and LT models, but with the dual huffers helping it, it produces the same 425 horsepower as its V8-propelled SS brother. And in a playful EcoBoasting slap, Chevy points out that they get the extra performance with virtually no penalty in fuel economy. Take that, rumored EcoBoost Mustang!

Besides the power upgrades, the Leno Camaro also gets a beefed up clutch for its six-speed transmission, an upgraded radiator, Brembo brakes, a Pedders coil-over kit, and a bodykit that includes a new rear diffuser as well as a revised front fascia and hood with additional venting for brakes and engine. It's one of a handful of Camaros in the GM booth, but it's the only one sticking its chin out, egging on the Ford boys. Press release after the jump and full gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Jay Leno Camaro

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Jay Leno Camaro a pre-emptive strike against EcoBoost 'Stang

SEMA 2009: Jay Leno Camaro a pre-emptive strike against EcoBoost 'Stang originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Canadian chicks dig Chevrolet's new Camaro

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, Canada

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS - click above image for hi-res gallery

Years and years and years ago (like back in the Eighties), we read a study that broke down car ownership by gender. The car most purchased by men? The Porsche 928, with a score of 97% male. Most by women? 69% of the time the ladies bought Nissan Pulsars - you know, those oddball notchback/shooting brake/targa-top modular things that usually came in pink. We mention this because traditionally, muscle cars have aimed at and appreciated by men. In fact, the gender breakdown for the 4th-generation Camaro is 80% male to 20% female. Not anymore.

Despite 'Vettes getting 'em wet as the sleeveless t-shirt proclaims, it seems that what women actually want is a brand new Chevrolet Camaro. At least, that appears to be the case with America's neighbors up in the True North Strong and Free. According to Autos Canada, it's looking like new 2010 Camaro sales in Canada are splitting the gender divide right down the middle, as in 50-50 in some locations. "Unlike the older versions of the Camaro where you probably had the typical motorhead, male, buyer, this is totally the opposite," says one Canadian Chevy dealer.

Why is this? Says General Motors spokesman George Saratlic, "One of our biggest challenges was the muscle car association to the car. We knew we couldn't do a replica of a '69 Camaro - It limits your audience." What does that say about fans of the 2010 Camaro? Probably not much, as the 426 horsepower LS3 version still skews heavily male. Also, the heavy dose of marketing via Michael Bay's Transformers movie series ensures that eight-year-olds and their ilk are way into GM's latest pony car as well. Still, women are clearly seeing something exciting in the Camaro. Thanks for the tip, Lawrence!

Gallery: Review: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS

[Source: Autos Canada]

PSA: Canadian chicks dig Chevrolet's new Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA Preview: Hotchkis to reveal 750-hp LS7-powered Lingenfelter Camaro

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet

2010 Lingenfelter Camaro by Hotchkis - Click above for high-res image gallery

Oh my. A stock 2010 Chevy Camaro SS produces 426 horsepower from its 6.2-liter LS3 V8. A Corvette Z06 turns out 505 hp from its 7.0-liter LS7. The Blue Devil, aka Corvette ZR1, is the most powerful car ever produced by General Motors and churns out a ridiculous 638 hp from its supercharged 6.2-liter LS9 guts. Impressive, but what if you were to strap a supercharger onto the bigger displacement LS7 from the Z06? Why, you'd get more power than you do from the LS9, that's for sure.

Obviously, that's exactly what Lingenfelter has done with its new Camaro. Co-engineered with suspension experts Hotchkis, the 2010 Lingenfelter Camaro features a 750-hp supercharged 427 cubic inch (though really 428) V8. No official word on torque, but let's just assume bat guano levels of twist. For one thing, this Camaro motor is a bit more than simply a blower bolted to a big block. For one thing it has forged JE pistons. For another it has titanium intake valves and Iconel exhaust valves - we don't even know what Iconel is! Oh wait, thanks to the magic of the internet we learn that Iconel is an "austenitic nickel-chromium-based superalloy" that is "oxidation and corrosion resistant materials well suited for service in extreme environments." What on earth is austenitic?

And that's just part of what makes the engine so mighty. But Hotchkis and Lingenfelter didn't stop with a stonkin' motor. As you might expect, the suspension is pretty incredible, too. Underneath the Camaro you'll find a Hotchkis Total Vehicle System that consists of sport springs, adjustable sway bars and a ChassisMax subframe brace. The dampers come from Lingenfelter/Sachs and are fully adjustable. And of course there's the requisite Brembo calipers and rotors. The fairly massive 20-inch wheels are slathered in Pirelli 275/40ZR20 rubber up front and Pirelli 305/35ZR20s in the rear.

Then there's the body kit, which consists of all sorts of bits and baubles like a front splitter, rocker extensions, a carbon fiber grille, functional air extractors on the hood, trunk spoiler, rear fascia and LPE exhaust tips. All in all, this looks to be one mother of a Camaro. We'll be there live at the SEMA Show to cover the reveal in a couple of weeks. Until then, make the jump to check out the full press release and stats.

Gallery: 2010 Lingenfelter Camaro by Hotchkis

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Hotchkis to reveal 750-hp LS7-powered Lingenfelter Camaro

SEMA Preview: Hotchkis to reveal 750-hp LS7-powered Lingenfelter Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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