Autoblog

REPORT: GM to show Chevy Orlando-based GMC Granite and hi-po Buick Regal in Detroit

Frank Filipponio — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 18:25:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Budget, Sedan, Performance, Etc., Crossover, Hatchback, Buick, Chevrolet, GM, Rumormill, Luxury, Off-Road

GMC Granite will share a platform with the 2011 Chevrolet Orlando shown above

It seems as though it's just about impossible to keep an embargo in place these days. A Canadian outlet just spilled the beans on a couple of GM reveals set for Detroit next month. They say they were invited to a sneak preview Wednesday evening and although they couldn't take pics, they felt free to tell us about the whole array of models. Some have been loosely-guarded secrets, but a couple are unknowns, so we'll quote CanadianDriver on those until we get confirmation from GM.

Apparently, The General will have a slew of new model introductions in the D next month, including the much-anticipated Camaro Convertible, the new, upsized Aveo, a substantially-revised Malibu, production versions of the Spark and Orlando, and two models we hadn't heard about until now: A GMC version of the Orlando dubbed the Granite, and a "sport version of the Buick Regal" that should get "many of its performance parts from the 325-hp Opel Insignia OPC." Hot dog, the Regal GS is apparently more than a wet dream. Bring on the Stage 1 and GNX.

The Regal was just introduced in Los Angeles a couple of weeks ago, so the announcement of a performance model so soon thereafter seems a little strange -- not that we're complaining, mind you. The Granite is described as an "urban utility vehicle" and will be the smallest model in GMC's history. A Denali edition can only be around the corner. We'll get you more details as they are released and we'll be sure to have the whole field covered when the Big Top opens at Cobo in January.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Chevrolet Orlando Concept

Gallery: 2010 Chevy Spark

Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling

[Source: CandianDriver]

REPORT: GM to show Chevy Orlando-based GMC Granite and hi-po Buick Regal in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 Dec 2009 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM confims Chevy Camaro Convertible for Oshawa production alongside 2011 Buick Regal

Noah Joseph — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:55:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Buick, Chevrolet

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

Ever look for something high and low only to find it hiding in plain sight? That's how we'd sum up the latest announcement from General Motors. The company has announced that the new Buick Regal - based on 2009's European Car of the Year, the Opel Insignia - will enter production at the beginning of 2011 at its assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario. There it will join the existing assembly line for the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossovers and the Chevy Camaro.

The kicker? General Motors subtly slipped in the announcement that the Camaro Convertible will begin production there as well around the same time. The drop-top pony car was first mooted with the concept unveiled at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show, and GM has been hemming and hawing about its production prospects ever since. Well, apparently they've made up their minds, and told all of us about it in the most understated way they could think of. Follow the jump to read the official press release.

Gallery: Chevy Camaro Convertible Concept

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading GM confims Chevy Camaro Convertible for Oshawa production alongside 2011 Buick Regal

GM confims Chevy Camaro Convertible for Oshawa production alongside 2011 Buick Regal originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:55:00 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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SEMA Preview: Drop Top Customs bringing convertible Camaro to Sin City [w/VIDEO]

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Convertible, Performance, Chevrolet, Specialty

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

We've been waiting for a convertible version of the new Camaro for almost as long as we've been waiting for the Camaro itself, but Chevrolet has yet to deliver. In fact, the convertible was delayed by The General, so it could be more than a year before we ever see one at our local Bowtie showroom (although dealers are reportedly getting their first look at the 2011 model as we speak). That hasn't stopped many from guessing just what a Camaro ragtop might look like.

The lucky folks attending this year's SEMA show in Las Vegas, however, won't have to rely on their imaginations to see what a Camaro convertible looks like. Drop Top Customs (founded in 1976 as Coachbulders Limited) will be showing off the car you see here, a genuine Chevrolet Camaro SS convertible, albeit one they had to build themselves. Drop Top did a similar cut job on the Camaro's pony car title Challenger from Dodge for last year's SEMA show with pretty spectacular results. The Camaro chop will cost owners about $18,000 at the firm's Florida shop. If the Camaro isn't your thing, Drop Top will also take a Sawzall to a Chrysler 300, Cadillac CTS or even a DTS if you'd prefer.

Check out their website for details, ogle the huge gallery of soft top Camaro pics below and follow the jump for a video clip of the folks at Drop Top Customs doin' their thang.

Gallery: SEMA Preview: Drop Top Customs Chevy Camaro convertible

[Sources: Drop Top Customs; Edmunds]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Drop Top Customs bringing convertible Camaro to Sin City [w/VIDEO]

SEMA Preview: Drop Top Customs bringing convertible Camaro to Sin City [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Preproduction Chevrolet Camaro Convertibles spotted at plant

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Chevrolet, Australia

2010 Chevy Camaro Convertible -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Camaro5 forum member isszy caught shots of eight freshly minted Camaro convertibles in Australia. Spotted outside the Holden factory in Fisherman's bend, Melbourne, the poster said they all appeared to be left-hand-drive.

The tan-and-silver color combination isn't one we would have thought of - the black-roofed guy at the end is much more like it - but the roofline itself looks very good. The last we were informed by GM, the car should arrive next year as a 2011 model. Hat tip to Tim!

Gallery: Camaro Convertibles at the Melbourne Factory

[Source: GM Inside News]

Spy Shots: Preproduction Chevrolet Camaro Convertibles spotted at plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Chevy Camaro Convertible caught outside Oshawa plant

John Neff — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Chevrolet

Chevy Camaro Convertible spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last we reported back in March, plans to produce a drop-top version of the Chevy Camaro were still in effect. While the Camaro Convertible ~~may be delayed until early 2011 and arrive as a 2012 model~~ (GM just confirmed it will arrive as a 2011 model), the on again/off again project appears to be firmly in the on position now... and we have proof. Autoblog reader Brad M recently caught the Camaro Convertible getting a tan outside of the Oshawa, Ontario plant that assembls the fixed-roof Camaro. The red convertible was sporting front and rear fascias from the Camaro SS and, with its top retracted, sported a very clean rear deck with only the center stop lamp and satellite radio antenna sticking up. With the chance of a Dodge Challenger Convertible hovering around 0%, we're pleased to see Chevy still intends to take on the Ford Mustang Convertible in the topless wars. Now, back to waiting...

Gallery: Chevy Camaro Convertible - spy shots

Spy Shots: Chevy Camaro Convertible caught outside Oshawa plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chevrolet Camaro convertible reportedly back on, albeit running late

Chris Shunk — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:56:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Chevrolet, GM

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

The on again, off again roller coaster ride that is General Motors' product development schedule once again apparently has a green light; the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro convertible. The drop-top Camaro is once again scheduled for a 2011 grand entrance, one year after the first Bowtie pony cars begin rolling off the line in Oshawa. Motor Trend reported back in November that the convertible Camaro was in trouble due to GM's cash crunch, and last week we learned from The Detroit Bureau that financial problems at a German supplier for the car's roof was threating the model's timetable. For its part, General Motors insists that the topless Camaro has always been scheduled for one year after the coupe began production, but now Motor Trend is now saying that the Camaro Convertible will probably not arrive until the first quarter of 2011 (likely as a 2012 model).

With a reported 14,000 pre-orders already on the books for the fixed-roof Camaro, GM is looking at some much needed good news in the short term. To better compete with Ford's Mustang and Dodge's Challenger, though, the General will need to make good on a ragtop variant (and perhaps a Z28, although that looks unlikely to happen). If MT's reports are accurate, the gap between coupe and convertible models is likely to be well over a year, which will be a tough pill for sunlovers to swallow. However, if the production model looks as good as the concept shown above, the Camaro could have all the inertia it needs when the top comes down.

Gallery: Camaro Convertible Concept

[Source: Motor Trend]

Chevrolet Camaro convertible reportedly back on, albeit running late originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chevrolet Camaro production delayed one month, convertible lives

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:46:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Chevrolet Camaro Concept

General Motors sent out a directive to dealers today announcing a one-month production delay for the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro. According to the message, the reason for the postponement (production is set to begin on Monday, March 16) is not due to any legal problems or the current issues faced by the General, and instead is a "result of GM's efforts to ensure the Camaro exceeds the highest quality benchmarks established by GM for a new product."

A forum member at Camaro5 who supposedly obtained the document is also saying that the Camaro convertible, reported as dead back in November, will go on sale as a 2011 model. Power figures for the bent-eight variants are listed in the directive at 400 hp for the L99 and 426 hp for the LS3, with all 10,000 pre-orders completed by October. Thanks to all who tipped in!

Gallery: Camaro Convertible Concept

Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

[Sources: 5thGen, Camaro5]

Chevrolet Camaro production delayed one month, convertible lives originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM provides sneak peek of production Camaro Convertible

John Neff — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Chevrolet

Click either image to view in our photo gallery

Just like it first did with "official" spy shots of the production Camaro coupe, General Motors has released a pair of small shots showing the production Camaro Convertible in its current state of development. We're told on the GM FastLane Blog that the pics are a reward for the overwhelmingly enthusiastic response to the first set of shots of the Camaro Coupe, which apparently meant a lot to the team of engineers testing the vehicle. While not much is revealed on these preproduction models that we didn't already know, the second shot shows the convertible's profile with the soft-top up, and it appears that the strong lines of the coupe have not been sacrificed by the retractable roof. Feel free to peruse both pics in our gallery below while we wait for larger ones to pop up.

Gallery: Chevy Camaro Convertible (preproduction)

[Source: GM FastLane Blog]

GM provides sneak peek of production Camaro Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Production Camaro convertible prototype photos hit the web

Alex Nunez — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Chevrolet, GM

Click above for higher-res shots of the Camaro Convertible

According to the person who posted these on Camaro5.com, what you're seeing is the production base Camaro convertible. Or, at least a prototype of it. Assuming that these shots are the real deal, the car depicted appears to be a study of sorts, as it shows how it looks with two different sets of wheels -- base and an upgrade -- one style fitted to each side of the car. As commenters on the Camaro5 thread have pointed out, this particular prototype doesn't have the placeholder headlamps used on the mules, and there's no faux scoop on its front fascia, either. That, we like. Hell, we like the whole thing. As was the case with the concept that set the stage for it last year, this droptop Camaro looks very slick. If these are legit, many thanks to the leaker, as we've all gotten a little bored with the coupe spy shots. "Look, a black one. And a white one. Again."

Let us know what you think in the comments. Are these real or a ruse? Thanks, Rod!

Gallery: Production Camaro Convertible?

[Source: Camaro5]

Production Camaro convertible prototype photos hit the web originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Chevy Camaro a no-show at auto shows

Chris Shunk — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 07:55:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Detroit Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertible, Coupe, Chevrolet, GM

We've seen the Camaro coupe and convertible concepts over the past two years at venues like the Detroit and Chicago auto shows. A stunning yellow Camaro also had the starring role on the biggest Hollywood blockbuster of 2007. We're even getting "spy shots" of the production Camaro taken by General Motors engineers that are posted on the GM Fast Lane blog. What we won't see any time soon is a production Camaro being unveiled during 2008. Kicking Tires quotes Chevy execs as saying that the company wants to avoid overexposure when production is still a year away. The General also wants to get the concept car to less prominent show sites like Houston and Cleveland, and there aren't many hand-made models to spread out across the country.

Since this is the third year in a row that at least one Camaro concept has been shown at the Detroit show, the crowd gathering around the Mustang fighter has gotten decidedly smaller. We're thinking the reason for that is because the public is now ready for the production model, but since a salable model is still a year away, the General is smart to hold off until the iconic pony car is closer to dealer lots. Besides, if we get a new picture from GM every week or two, it'll more than curb our cravings for bow-tie pony power for the time being.

Gallery: 2009 Chevy Camaro - front

Gallery: Pre Production Camaro High Res

[Source: Kicking Tires]

2009 Chevy Camaro a no-show at auto shows originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jan 2008 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Stuff: Camaro ragtop

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertible, Chevrolet

UPDATE: Image removed at request of AutoWeek
UPDATE 2: No speculation here, Camaro Convertible will be at Detroit according to our sources

It seems only natural that a ponycar like the Camaro Concept would ultimately spawn a ragtop version eventually. Now, as we wait for the coupe to go into production, AutoWeek is speculating that GM might have one up its sleeves for Detroit this year. The magazine has even procured some renderings by Motor Forecast to show us what it might look like (Follow the Read link to view). GM has promised a new unnamed concept for the NAIAS, so it might not be too much of a leap to assume AW is onto something. The lucky few hundred with invites to the pre-party along the Detroit River will probably be the first to know for sure.

The Camaro Concept captured plenty of accolades and fan interest when it was first shown in January, but with production of the 2009 car still a long way off, the concepts are starting to lose a little luster. Still exciting, but the novelty begins to wear off when you've seen them at SEMA and OC and LA and just about anywhere cool cars have been gathering. So showing off a drop top version might keep the interest level high enough to keep customers champing at the bit for the next couple of years.

Aside from the photos, AutoWeek is offering a few insights into what the Camaro mechanicals might be like. AW seems to think the trend towards hardtop convertibles won't register with Chevy. Strictly cloth here. And they also speculate that we will see a range of Camaros that might mirror the Ford Mustang lineup. Base models with V6 engines, mid-level V8s and a top-of-the-line SS with a possible Z06 V8 as well. No word on whether or not we'll see sedan and wagon versions to go head to head with the rumored new 'Stangs.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Spy Stuff: Camaro ragtop originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Dec 2006 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Camaro Convertible not far behind

John Neff — Mon, 03 Jul 2006 11:02:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Spy Photos, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, Dodge, GM

With the Dodge Challenger getting the green light for production, it's likely only a matter of time before the Chevy Camaro is also approved for production. Rumor has it GM engineers are in Australia hard at work with their brothers from Holden on the next Camaro.. That said, a convertible version should also be in the works, and this rendering by Brenda Priddy and Co. suggests what a Camaro droptop will look like when it hits the streets sometime around 2009.

[Source: Winding Road]

Camaro Convertible not far behind originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Jul 2006 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Camaro convertible already approved?

John Neff — Fri, 02 Jun 2006 08:02:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Chevrolet

Haven't gotten the latest issue of Motor Trend in the mail yet, but this article from Post-Gazette.com references the current July issue out on newsstands that claims General Motors has already approved a convertible Camaro for production. Umm ... now we all know the Camaro Concept (and the Dodge Challenger Concept, as well) will likely go into production, but last we heard the business case was "still being fleshed out." Reportedly 100,000 Camaros will need to be sold in order for Chevy to start profiting from the Camaro's return. A convertible model would no doubt help the cause, so we're not surprised it's on the table. Indeed, debuting a Camaro Convertible Concept in the intervening years before the actual coupe goes on sale will keep the car's buzz at a fevered pitch until production starts sometime in 2008 or 2009.

Check out another sketch after the jump, both of which are courtesy of John McBride as seen in Popular Hotrodding.

[Source: Post-Gazette.com]

Continue reading Camaro convertible already approved?

Camaro convertible already approved? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jun 2006 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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