Chevrolet revealed the 2017 Camaro ZL1 convertible. It offers comparable performance to the coupe model, thanks to the Camaro's modular and rigid body architecture, which was designed at the outset to support a high-performance convertible. As a result, only a few minor structural differences separate the coupe and convertible models, enabling the coupe's track-honed chassis and driver control systems to carry over unchanged. The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 convertible goes on sale in early 2017.
Acceleration for the ZL1 is delivered with a new supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine estimated at 640 hp (477 kW), and either a six-speed manual transmission with active rev matching or an all-new 10-speed automatic. Handling capability starts with the lightweight, stiffer structure of the all-new sixth-Gen Camaro, married with Magnetic Ride suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential. Standard technologies include Driver Mode Selector, dual-mode exhaust and advanced connectivity features.
Designed for Performance
Functionality defines the Camaro ZL1's form, with the exterior shaped during more than 100 hours of wind-tunnel testing and on-track validation to improve aerodynamics and cooling for track use. Accordingly, its exterior elements all play a part in managing airflow over, under and through the ZL1.
"The design supports the Camaro ZL1's exceptional performance and does so with compelling style," said John Mack, Camaro exterior design manager. "From every angle, the elements coalesce to give the car a purposeful, super aggressive attitude."
The lower grille opening, for example, offers greater airflow compared to the Camaro SS, and the upper grille incorporates a new version of the "flow-tie" open bowtie insignia. There's also a new hood, with a carbon fiber insert and heat extractor that pulls hot air from the engine compartment. Additional changes include a larger front splitter, unique rockers, a wing-style rear spoiler and wider front fenders - all tuned to improve aerodynamics for greater high-speed stability.
Inside, there are standard Recaro front seats, along with a sueded flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob. Chevrolet's Performance Data Recorder is available.
Fast with finesse
A cohesive suite of performance technologies tailors ZL1's performance for street and track. Features include an updated Magnetic Ride suspension, Performance Traction Management, electronic limited-slip differential, Custom Launch Control and Driver Mode Selector. It also has a stronger power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor, weighing 200 pounds less, while offering approximately 60 more horsepower and 80 more pound-feet of torque.
The result is a one-of-a-kind driving experience.
"Driving the Camaro ZL1 is best described as 'fast with finesse,'" said Reuss. "It is beautifully balanced, with perfect damping and isolation for optimal performance and driver confidence in virtually any situation - from the Pacific Coast Highway to Willow Springs to Pomona."
Additional chassis features include:
Supercharged performance and new 10-speed automatic
Underhood, the ZL1 features a supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 Small Block engine, with intake and exhaust systems tailored for Camaro. It is rated at an estimated 640 horsepower (477 kW) and 640 lb-ft of torque (868 Nm).
The LT4 is backed by a standard six-speed manual transmission or all-new, available paddle-shift 10-speed automatic. The 10-speed automatic has 7.39 overall ratio for smaller steps between gears. It enables the LT4 engine to remain at optimal rpm levels during acceleration, particularly when exiting corners, for quicker laps and lightning-quick responses on both up- and down-shifts.
This is the first Chevrolet application of the new quick-shift 10-speed, with unique calibrations and hardware developed exclusively for the ZL1. By the end 2018, GM will introduce the new 10-speed automatic in eight vehicle models.
Finally - and unlike some competitors - there's no need to purchase an optional package to make the ZL1 track ready. Track capability comes standard, with features including an impressive 11 heat exchangers for optimal powertrain cooling.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's 5.5L, twin-turbo DOHC flat-plane crank LT7 engine is the result of engineering prowess and pushing the boundaries of what the engine architecture can do.
2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 debuts an all-new 5.5L DOHC V-8 engine that marks a return to natural aspiration for the track-capable performance model.
Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray's exterior has a bold, futuristic expression with mid-engine exotic proportions, but it is still unmistakably Corvette. It's lean and muscular...
Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray's two driver-initiated electric modes enable the car to travel under electric propulsion in certain conditions. The electric motor also...
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's LT5 6.2L V-8 engine advances Corvette's supercharging legacy, which began with the 2009 sixth-generation ZR1 and continued...
The Z06 rejoins the Corvette lineup for 2015 as the most capable model in the iconic car's 62-year history. It stretches the performance envelope for...
Chevrolet is redefining modern performance with the debut of the all-new Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray. And only a Corvette with the perfect balance of...
Chevrolet officially announced the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 - an American supercar that brings the technology and engineering refinement of...
Model year 2006 will always be known as the year the 505-horsepower Chevrolet Corvette Z06 was let loose on the sports car world. With its 505-horsepower...
Marking the sixth generation of its legacy, the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette C6 delivers more power, passion and precision to reach a new standard of...
A successor to the ZR-1 made its debut in 2001 as the Z06, giving a nod to the high-performance Z06 version of the C2 Corvette of the 1960s.
The C5 was also the first Corvette to incorporate a drive-by-wire throttle; and variable-effort steering, whereby the assist level of the power steering...
The Chevrolet Corvette C4 is a sports car introduced at the close of 1982 production as a 1984 model and ended in 1996, meaning that there's no such thing...
The Chevrolet Corvette C3 is a sports car patterned after Chevrolet's "Mako Shark" (designed by Larry Shinoda), produced between 1968 and 1982.
The Chevrolet Corvette C2 is a sports car designed by Larry Shinoda under the styling direction of Bill Mitchell, and produced between 1963 and 1967. It is...
The Chevrolet Corvette C1 is a sporty automobile produced from 1953 through 1962. It is the first generation of Chevrolet Corvettes built and marketed by...
A near immediate feeling of thrust from low-end torque is core to the Corvette driving experience, and the E-Ray packs plenty of it. Power comes from the 6.2L LT2...
The mid-engine 2020 Corvette C8 Stingray was engineered first and foremost as a convertible. The convertible maintains the tunnel-dominant structure and...
The performance and technology introduced on the Corvette ZR1 coupe carry over to the new ZR1 convertible. The strength of the Corvette's aluminum...
Chevrolet introduced one of the most capable drop-tops on the market: the 2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible. With at least 625 horsepower, and 635 pound-feet...
Chevrolet revealed the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray Convertible at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. With an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450...
The Chevrolet Corvette C6 is 5 inches (127 mm) shorter and about 1 inch (25 mm) narrower than its predecessor. Larger wheels (18-inch in front, 19-inch in rear)...
The Chevrolet Malibu's front fascia, grilles and headlamps are all-new. The headlamps are integrated with the upper grille and the larger, bolder...
Chevrolet introduced the all-new 2016 Malibu - a completely restyled midsize sedan engineered to offer more efficiency, connectivity and advanced safety...
The all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu made its global debut at the 2011 Auto Shanghai, with simultaneous introductions in the United States and China - two of...
The all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers great performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in a clean, tailored design that carries the new face of...
The Malibu name was moved to the new Epsilon platform for 2004, but the previous car remained in production as the Chevrolet Classic for car rental and...
A new front-wheel drive Malibu was introduced in 1997 on an extended wheelbase version of the GM N platform with Pontiac Grand Am, Buick Skylark,...
As Chevrolet's first V-8, rear-wheel-drive performance sedan since 1996, the new Chevrolet SS is designed to deliver performance on the street and on the...
Chevrolet has completely redesigned the 2014 Impala - its iconic flagship sedan - with head-turning styling, greater interior spaciousness and advanced...
The 2006 Impala was introduced at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show. The base engine is a 3.5 L V6 producing 211 hp. The most notable news about the model,...
The 2004 to 2005 Impala SS came equipped with the 3.8 liter (231 cu in) supercharged L67 V6 engine. It was rated at 240 horsepower (180 kW) and had been...
Chevrolet unveiled the all-new 2016 Volt electric car with extended range, showcasing a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater...
Chevrolet introduced the all-new, 2011 Volt electric vehicle with extended range, establishing an entirely new segment in the global automotive market. The...
The architecture also enables the Camaro Convertible's sleek design, allowing the top to fold down completely beneath the belt line. The hard tonneau cover...
Chevrolet revealed the 2017 Camaro ZL1 convertible. It offers comparable performance to the coupe model, thanks to the Camaro's modular and rigid body...
The architecture also enables the Camaro Convertible's sleek design, allowing the top to fold down completely beneath the belt line. The hard tonneau cover...
At the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, Chevrolet introduced the new Camaro convertible and coupe . Featuring a fast, low-slung silhouette and Chevrolet's new...
Chevrolet's most-powerful convertible ever - the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible - made its debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. When it goes on...
The segment-leading Chevrolet Camaro opens a new chapter as the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible premieres at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto...
The Z28 and SS models received the intake manifold from the LS6, the engine used in the fifth generation Corvette Z06 from 2001 to 2004. This change also...
Functionality defines the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1's form, with the exterior shaped during more than 100 hours of wind-tunnel testing and on-track validation...
Distinctive exterior features of the new Bentley Bentayga Speed include dark tint brightware, bright chrome Speed badges on the leading edge of the front doors...
Like all GTi models for 40 years, the e-208 GTi is distinguished first by its strong stance on the road, thanks to a body lowered by 30 mm and tracks widened by 56 mm...
Optiq-V features standard dual motor all-wheel drive and a Cadillac-estimated 519 hp and 650 lb-ft (880 Nm) of torque, for a burst of power and acceleration.
Toyota Aygo X delivers a more energetic and exciting drive, with higher power and sharper acceleration, using the same hybrid technology found in the Toyota Yaris.
BMW M2 CS is based on the second generation of the BMW M2 and significantly improves what is already an extraordinary level of performance.