General Motors’ Chevrolet division believes that its 2017 Camaro ZL1 is one of the most advanced sports coupes in the world in any measure – with unprecedented levels of technology, refinement, track capability and straight-line acceleration.
Acceleration for the ZL1 is delivered with a new supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine estimated at 640bhp and 868Nm, with either a 6-speed manual gearbox with active rev matching or an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Six-speed manual (left) or 10-speed automatic (right) for the Chevy Camaro ZL1.
The 10-speeder has smaller steps between gears, enabling 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, automatic with unique calibrations and hardware developed exclusively for the ZL1.
The car’s handling capability starts with the lightweight, stiffer structure of the current sixth-generation 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.
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. All the exterior elements play a part in managing airflow over, under and through the ZL1.
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 fibre 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. (Click here to read about the Chevy Camaro in Hollywood blockbuster, Transformers.)
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.
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, plus an impressive 11 heat exchangers for optimal powertrain cooling.
The new ZL1 also has a stronger power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor, weighing 90kg less while offering approximately 60 more horsepower and 108 Newton-metres more torque.
The result promises to be a one-of-a-kind American driving experience when the Camaro ZL1 goes on sale in the US late this year. (Click here to read about another kind of American driving experience, the Chevy Sonic in Singapore.)
