2016 Alpha platform Camaro

b15 · 05-16-2015, 11:32 AM

Hard to judge but it doesn't look much different or smaller.

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 12:49 PM

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...A8StmmWTVnR0cA

Becomes A Different Animal
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General Motors GM +0.75%’ (GM) Chevrolet division is staging a high-performance soiree on Saturday to unveil the 2016 Camaro, the all-new, sixth generation of the iconic coupe that, with the Ford Mustang, helped establish in the late 1960s the hallowed era of go-fast, big-engined, “ponycars.”

But the 2016 Camaro marks the end of an era as much as the continuation of a nostalgic automotive time. Yes, it’s still meant to go fast and be comparatively inexpensive – the two primary components of the original ponycar formula – but the 2016 Camaro is sure to be vastly more refined and civilized than any Camaro before it. Chevy would like the Camaro’s newly designed-in refinement to enhance its appeal to a wider range of new-car buyers.

For the underpinnings of the all-new Camaro, GM engineers repurposed the company’s “Alpha” structure; Camaro aficionados and purchase intenders may not care about the savings this delivers to GM’s bottom line – what will matter to them is that Alpha was first designed as the foundation for a Cadillac, specifically the sharp-handling (albeit regrettably slow-selling) ATS compact coupe and sedan. The Alpha platform’s baked-in refinement and lithe handling, not to mention some 200 pounds less weight, should imbue the 2016 Camaro with attributes go-fast-in-a-straight-line ponycars traditionally have eschewed: agile cornering and a supple ride.

In advance of its May 16 unveiling, Chevrolet had not yet allowed media outlets to show photos of the 2016 Camaro. But television network CNBC "mistakenly" broadcast images in its possession, this one showing the new but familiar Camaro front-end styling.
In advance of its May 16 unveiling, Chevrolet had not yet allowed media outlets to show photos of the 2016 Camaro. But television network CNBC “mistakenly” broadcast images in its possession, this one showing the new but familiar Camaro front-end styling.

Rear styling of the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro, again courtesy of CNBC’s unauthorized broadcast prior to the car’s “official” unveiling scheduled for May 16.

Chevrolet’s veer toward musclecar refinement mirrors that of Ford Motor's F +1.38% (F) all-new 2015 Mustang, launched last fall with a similar emphasis on improved handling and a certain, let’s call it “upgrade,” in creature comfort.

But there’s another new-age angle as well: recasting the ponycar recipe with at least a nod toward contemporary concerns regarding fuel economy. Although Chevrolet didn’t release all the details of the 2016 Camaro’s mechanicals in advance of Saturday’s unveiling, it’s probable that the all-new Camaro will, like the Mustang, include the option of – eek! – a four-cylinder engine under its lightweight hood.

It wouldn’t be the first four-cylinder in the Camaro’s history, but it certainly would be the strongest. Beside the fact the Mustang currently offers the more fuel-efficient four-cylinder alternative, the main reason many speculate Chevrolet will offer the new Camaro with four-cylinder is that a strong-performing turbocharged four-cylinder already is in use by the mechanically related Cadillac ATS. Chevrolet already has confirmed the 2016 Camaro will be available with the ponycar-requisite rumbling V8.
Last year, the current Camaro found slightly more than 86,000 buyers, outselling the Mustang for the fifth consecutive year. Through April of this year, however, the new-design 2015 Mustang, with 42,955 deliveries, had jumped well ahead of the Camaro’s 24,229 sales, as those interested in the Camaro may have held off in anticipation of the new sixth-generation model’s impending release. If the 2016 Camaro hits showrooms late this summer or in early fall, it may not have enough time to reel in the Mustang’s sales lead and retain its best-selling ponycar title. The other lonstanding Detroit-made musclecar, the Dodge Challenger, typically runs third in the sales column.

Lighter, more powerful, more fuel-efficient, more refined. New technology has enabled the reinvention of the ponycar. Now what remains to be seen is whether the formula can succeed not only with the Camaro faithful (we predict it will) but gain ground in the crossover vehicle-obsessed U.S auto market.

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 12:53 PM

Thanks to CNBC, we know what the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro looks like a day early, and thanks to one intrepid insider, we have some of the car’s engine specs before anyone else. We also have GM’s internal talking points, which answer more questions and reveal certain issues they’re clearly concerned about addressing.

This insider memo goes into more depth about the new Camaro’s technology, design and performance, and answers a lot of questions that will be on the minds of enthusiasts everywhere. (We asked a GM official for comment on this memo, and he said he had none.)

For instance, they went with a turbo four at the bottom of the Camaro engine range, unlike Ford, because they thought that would make more sense to buyers. The V8 engine is now the LT1, sourced from the Corvette Stingray.

Curiously, the fake intrepid questions from the press include someone asking about the “Iron Duke” four-cylinder engines of the past, which is something that didn’t even cross our minds. Turbocharged fourbangers are so common and so far removed from those Malaise Era powerplants it doesn’t seem like a reasonable comparison.

And no, they don’t care about rear visibility, because previous-generation Camaro owners didn’t care about rear visibility if it came at the cost of the car’s silhouette. Sorry. You do get a standard backup camera though.

There’s still a lot left in the air, like the Camaro’s exact weight, price, on sale date, and plans for performance variants like the ZL1 and Z/28. But we’re off to a good start.

Technology

• All-new Driver Mode Control, which tailors up to eight vehicle attributes – from the dual-mode exhaust to throttle progression

• Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which is offered on the Camaro SS for the first time

• Segment-exclusive, Interior Spectrum Lighting that offers 24 different ambient lighting settings – and offers a “car show” mode

• High-definition, configurable color displays – including available dual 8-inch screens

• Available wireless phone charging and next-generation Chevrolet MyLink with new smartphone projection

Performance

• GM’s award-winning Alpha architecture enables a more nimble, responsive driving experience

o The new Camaro is at least 200 pounds lighter than previous model

o Although based on Alpha, 70 percent of the components are unique to Camaro

• The most powerful Camaro SS ever

o 6.2L LT1with estimated at 440 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque

• All-new 3.6L V-6 featuring direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and –for the first time – Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation)

o Estimated 330 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque

• Most efficient Camaro ever, delivering more than 30 MPG highway

o New 2.0L Turbo with an estimated 270 hp and 290 lb-ft

• Handling and performance for the Camaro SS approaches that of the fifth-generation models’ track-capable Camaro 1LE package

Design

• More athletic-looking, sculptured exterior that complements the tighter, leaner architecture

• Aerodynamically optimized design is the result of 350 hours of wind tunnel testing – with reduced drag on LT models and 30 percent improvement in lift downforce on SS

• All-new, driver-focused interior with intuitive controls, flat-bottom steering wheel, and high quality materials throughout

• Unique control rings around the air vents used for temperature and fan speed adjustments, eliminating the need for conventional buttons

Expected questions:

Q: When will the new Camaro: start production / go on sale / arrive at dealers?

A: We are not ready to discuss specific timing, but can tell you we expect the first Camaros to arrive at dealers by the end of 2015.

Q: How much will the Camaro cost? Will it be more/less than the current Camaro?

A: We are not ready to announce pricing. I can tell you the current Camaro ranges from $23,000 to $43,000 and we expect the new Camaro will have a similar range.

Q: Why is the Alpha-based Camaro “only” 200 pounds lighter that the old Camaro? The fifth-gen was so heavy, it should have been 500 pounds lighter.

A: A 200 pound savings is actually quite remarkable: The Alpha-architecture is very mass-efficient, however the exterior dimensions of the new Camaro are within 2 inches of the predecessor. The team looked for every opportunity to save mass –from increased use of aluminum to shortening the suspension bolts to save a few grams. The result can be immediately felt behind the wheel – as the new Camaro feels incredibly light, agile, and fun to drive.

Q: How fast will the 2.0L Turbo/V-6/V8 be 0-60/¼-mile/top speed/Lap times?

A: It is too soon to discuss specific performance numbers, as we are currently finalizing the tuning and calibration of the new car. All I can tell you is the new 2016 Camaro SS is already posting better lap times than the 2015 Camaro 1LE.

Q: When will theZ/28 / ZL1 / 1LE arrive?

A: We are not ready to discuss products beyond 2016 model year for competitive reasons. However, I can tell you we plan to introduce new models and special editions at least every year.

Q: Why would you offer a four-cylinder in the Camaro? Didn’t you learn your lesson with the Iron Duke?

A: With the Gen2 Camaro, we learned buyers are not willing to sacrifice performance for fuel economy. As such, the new Camaro 2.0L Turbo is impressive performance: The 2.0L Turbo delivers 270 horsepower – which is more than any V-8 offered from 1971 to 1995 – and it’s paired with a lighter, more nimble chassis that makes the Camaro exceptionally fun-to-drive.

Q: Why are you offering the four-cylinder as your base engine, and V6 as an option, when Mustang offers the V-6 as their base, and their EcoBoost as an upgrade?

A: We felt 4-6-8 was a more logical progression for customers as they look for the balance of performance and efficiency that fits their needs. It’s important to note that Mustang positions their V-6 as a low-volume, low-feature model. To get a well-optioned car, Ford forces you to upgrade to the EcoBoost. We are taking adifferent tact, allowing customers to build a well-equipped Camaro with their choice of engines.

Q : Why didn’t you fix the rearward visibility for the next-gen ? That was the single biggest complaint for the Gen 5.

A: We talked to many Gen 5 customers about the visibility, and they made it clear they were not willing to accept changing the appearance of the Camaro’s iconic silhouette for the sake or rear visibility. We are using increased levels of technology to help with visibility, including a standard back up camera on all models, and available rear sonar.
What do you think of the new Camaro now?

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 03:02 PM

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 03:30 PM

Jordo! · 05-16-2015, 03:45 PM

Errr I don't mean to be a dick when I say this, but it looks exactly the same to me...

I finally had a chance to play with a new V6 'stang and was pleasantly surprised with the improved looks, seating, handling and braking, but a bit underwhelmed with the acceleration.

Based on the listed changes, sounds like the Camaro really is just in competition with the Mustang.

On that note, does their V6 need premium? The 'stang's V6 takes regular, and consequently, makes quite a bit less power.

Guess I'll reserve judgment for later. Are you thinking of getting one, Unknown?

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 04:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jordo!

Errr I don't mean to be a dick when I say this, but it looks exactly the same to me...

I finally had a chance to play with a new V6 'stang and was pleasantly surprised with the improved looks, seating, handling and braking, but a bit underwhelmed with the acceleration.

Based on the listed changes, sounds like the Camaro really is just in competition with the Mustang.

On that note, does their V6 need premium? The 'stang's V6 takes regular, and consequently, makes quite a bit less power.

Guess I'll reserve judgment for later. Are you thinking of getting one, Unknown?

I may do it just because i think the driving experience will be insane. Im in a position to buy one 6 figure sports car or two, 5 figure sports cars. I've just been all over the place and not sure what to get... lol When you appreciate so many types of cars and appreciate different types of sports driving. So many cars are appealing, it's just hard to make a decision.

DCNISMO · 05-16-2015, 04:21 PM

You want that z28 or a GT3.

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 04:32 PM

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...93564037,d.eXY

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 04:36 PM

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 04:50 PM

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 05:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DCNISMO

You want that z28 or a GT3.

I'm thinking either a ZL1 and a Z35
A benz c63 amg and a Z35
a Benz GLA45 AMG and a Z35
Or a Porsche GTS loaded or a
GT3 with a couple of additions, or and
MB AMG GTS

I toy with the idea of a Z06 and a MB C400.
I also toy with the idea of a C7 Z51 and a C63AMG OR gla45amg

UNKNOWN_370 · 05-16-2015, 05:13 PM

VVT V6

LT1 V8

2016 Camaro Unveiled: Exclusive First Look at the Sixth-Gen Camaro
Written by Brandan Gillogly on May 16, 2015 Contributors: Jessica Walker Details On the Most Powerful Camaro SS Ever Built
2016 Camaro Unveiled: Exclusive First Look at the Sixth-Gen Camaro View All 36 Photos
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We’re standing outside an industrial warehouse near the intersection of Edsel Ford and Chrysler freeways in Detroit, not far from GM’s Hamtramck Assembly Center. What few windows the building has have been draped in tarps and taped up from the inside. All the doors are locked tight. We really want to get in, not just because it’s 40-something degrees and raining, but because we know the Reliable transport truck parked outside has unloaded two 2016 Camaros, sans camouflage, and they’re waiting for us inside.

While never a huge departure from the established ponycar class, each previous Camaro generation came as a completely different style. The second-generation Camaro was much more European than the first, and the third was far lighter and compact. From the spy photos we’d seen of the 2016 Camaro, we expected a car very similar to the outgoing fifth-generation. From a distance, that may be the case, but the 2016 Camaro is entirely new, with only two emblems carrying over from 2015. Still, when we first saw it in the flesh, we immediately recognized the metallic charcoal gray car as a Camaro.

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We spent more than 10 hours in and around two versions of the 2016 Camaro, photographing them from all angles, and then spoke with Aaron Link, lead development engineer for the sixth-generation Camaro. Link has been involved in developing the LSA-powered Cadillac CTS-V and has been on the fifth-gen Camaro team since just after its launch, when he worked on the development of the 580hp ZL1 Camaro. Here’s what we took away.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 2 2/36
Familiar Exterior

Not quite as dramatic as the Corvette’s shift from C6 to C7, the Camaro’s progress is a lot like Porsche’s recipe for a 911 redesign: keep the style, trim some fat, and hone in on the handling. With such a positive response to the Camaro’s styling and strong sales for each of the past five years, Chevrolet knew it had something special and didn’t want to throw everything out, even though a new platform and powertrains were on the way. We were told that nearly every exterior dimension is within 2 inches of the previous model. Indeed, if you were to add the new sixth-gen to your garage, we’re pretty sure it could borrow your fifth-gen’s custom-fit car cover.

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2016 Chevrolet Camaro 4 3/36
The car’s overall profile is similar, but lower and with an even more pronounced fastback look. Side windows are still short—at around 10 inches tall from the top of the door to the roof—and the trunk opening is still quite small, both concessions to the sleek design. When asked about the outward visibility, one of the fifth-generation Camaro’s biggest criticisms, Link admitted, “It’s certainly a hot button with people. Every time we’d do a clinic or styling exercises that have a bigger daylight opening, people universally said, ‘No, don’t do it. Don’t compromise the style.’” The sixth-generation car does have better forward and downward visibility, along with a roof-mounted frameless rearview mirror to help reduce blind spots.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 36 4/36
Super Sport cars get a more aggressive front fascia with a larger lower grille opening, brake cooling ducts, and unique LED daytime running light (DRL) treatment. We were told this fascia was developed with downforce in mind, while LT models will get a more subdued fascia with a smaller grille opening that reduces drag. The SS also gets a unique hood with two vents running parallel on either side of the hood bulge. Along with removing heat from the engine compartment, they also reduce lift. They’re farther forward and not as square as the “ice-cube trays” on the 1968 SS, but there’s a hint of the classic in their design.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 3 5/36
At the rear, the taillights also evoke 1968, as horizontal elements are divided into two sections. The rear fascia are identical on LT and SS, although rear spoilers differ, with SS getting the taller of the two. Both the Bow Tie on the rear edge of the decklid and the SS emblems on the right edge of the decklid are carryovers from the 2015 model, but a new “banner” fender emblem, similar to those on the 2015 Commemorative Edition, pays homage to the tricolor badges that were on the noses of Camaros beginning in 1970.

All-New Chassis

The move from Zeta to the Alpha chassis gave Camaro more flexibility in design, thanks to a lower cowl height. It’s similar to the chassis developed for the 2013 Cadillac ATS, although the front wheels were pulled forward to, as Link put it, “extract the sports car” from the platform. The Alpha platform is also more mass-efficient, resulting in a body shell that’s 136 pounds lighter than the previous generation while being 28 percent more structurally rigid. A solid foundation allows engineers to focus suspension geometry on maximizing handling without compensating for chassis flex. We asked what the Camaro team was shooting for on the sixth-generation: “The dynamics of the [fifth-generation] car evolved to be pretty damn good,” Link said. Trying to keep that handling and move it to a smaller, lighter package was the priority. “There were constraints on Zeta that we couldn’t overcome, ever.”

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 5 6/36
Not only is the Alpha weight-efficient, the 2016 Camaro is 2.3 inches shorter in length, 1.1 inch shorter in height, and the body is ¾ of an inch narrower with ½ of an inch narrower front track width, and 1/3 of an inch wider rear track width. The weight savings in the body shell also translated into less mass needed in the suspension and brakes, for less unsprung mass and better suspension response and steering feel. Front suspension uses a Macpherson strut with geometry that’s unique to Camaro. Chevrolet says the double-pivot lower A-arm design provides a more precise feel in conjunction with a quick-ratio electric power-steering system. Front control arms and links are aluminum, while a new five-link rear suspension uses steel links with lightening holes. Overall suspension weight was reduced by 26 pounds, which helped add up to more than 200 pounds of weight savings overall compared to a 2015 fifth-gen car.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 6 7/36
Like the C7 Stingray that promised to match the performance of the C6 Grand Sport package, the 2016 Camaro SS looks to record better lap times than the previous-generation SS 1LE, which is still in the running for the best bang-for-your-buck ponycar on the market, even as it ends its production run. Part of that improved performance likely comes from Magnetic Ride Control, the active suspension used in the Corvette and the fifth-generation ZL1 Camaro, which is now available for the first time in the Camaro SS. Toggling between the Snow/Ice, Tour, Sport, and Track modes changes the throttle progression, automatic-transmission shifting, power steering, and stability control, as well as the ambient lighting, dual-mode exhaust, and Magnetic Ride Control if equipped.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 41 8/36
Brakes are still on the large size with Brembo calipers and rotors available on LT and standard on SS models. Buyers of the LT package cars can opt for 12.6-inch front rotors with four-piston calipers and 12.4-inch rear rotors with single-piston sliding calipers. Camaro SS is equipped with 13.6-inch front rotors with and 13.3-inch rear rotors, all with four-piston fixed calipers. The LT cars will wear 18-inch wheels with Goodyear Eagle Sport all-season tires; SS cars will use Goodyear F1 Asymmetric 2 run-flats. The cars we photographed both used 245/40R20 sizes front and rear.

Performance Powertrains

Chevrolet is offering three engine choices at launch, each paired with eight-speed autos or six-speed manuals. The base engine is a 2.0L, turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder—option code LTG—which is the same engine you’d find in the Cadillac ATS and as a crate engine from Chevrolet Performance. It’s rated at 272 hp in both of those applications and has a broad torque peak producing 290 lb-ft between 3,000 to 4,600 rpm, with 90 percent of its torque available at 1,700 rpm. We’ve driven this engine in heavier applications than the 2016 Camaro and it feels stronger than 270 hp should, thanks to that torque production. Chevrolet claims this engine will propel the Camaro from 0–60 mph in “well under 6 seconds” while returning better than 30 mpg highway. That should make it slightly quicker than a V6 Challenger.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 42 9/36
Next in the engine line is a direct-injection, 3.6L V6 producing an estimated 330 hp at 6,800 rpm and 285 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. While the displacement is the same, this is an all-new engine architecture with wider bore spacing and a larger bore and shorter stroke than the previous 3.6L. A 3.6L, twin-turbo version of this engine powers the Cadillac ATS-V, which is also on the Alpha platform. We’re not saying that Camaro has a twin-turbo V6 in its future, we’re just saying that it fits in the engine bay and makes 455 hp. Link said it was kicked around during watercooler talk, but its output was close enough to the LT1 that a high-feature V6 might only serve to muddy the waters.

Back to reality, this new 3.6L will mark the first time that a V6 Camaro has offered Active Fuel Management (AFM), disabling two cylinders under light load for improved fuel economy. With the 2015 Camaro V6 already rated at 30 mpg highway with the outgoing V6, we think this could be the second sixth-generation Camaro powertrain to return better than 30 mph highway.

No surprise, the SS will come with the awesome, direct-injected LT1 V8 with an estimated 440 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. “The small-block V8 belongs in this car,” Link told us. It’s similar to the LT1 found in the Stingray, although the Camaro application means that 20 percent of its components are new, including tri-Y tubular exhaust manifolds. Automatic-transmission SS models will use AFM like the Stingray, shutting down four cylinders to run as a V4 under low-load driving conditions. We asked about any special engineering for the LT1 in the Camaro and Link pointed to the air/oil separator as, “an unsung hero of the car. We developed a legit air/oil separator for the LT1. That was near and dear to my heart. I spent a lot of time on that one.” As all Camaro LT1s will be wet-sump engines, Link told us the air/oil separator is cleverly packaged, so it’s hard to appreciate in the car. Its function is to keep oil out of the airbox and throttle-body—and therefore the combustion chamber—avoiding pre-ignition.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 31 10/36
Link was excited to point out the amount of cooling across the board on the 2016 Camaro. The radiator did shrink compared to fifth-gen, but the addition of outboard coolers and a high-powered electric fan in combination with improved airflow resulted in an overall cooling package that’s very efficient. “Water temp on these cars is just phenomenal, we’ve been really pleased.” Even during hard driving, cooling is consistent with “zero spark retard.”

When we asked Link what options he’d be checking when he gets a 2016 Camaro of his own, he was quick to answer. “The one I gravitate to is the LT1 manual with the optional exhaust and magnetic dampers. The trim? 1SS, 2SS, I could go either way. For canyon-carving or a weekend track car, that’s a pretty sweet package.”

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 30 11/36
As for its chief competition, Ford places the Mustang’s 305hp, 2.3L, EcoBoost, four-cylinder turbo as a premium engine above the 300hp, 3.7L V6 that’s offered in base models. Chevrolet says its four-six-eight-cylinder engine progression makes more sense and will allow buyers to pick either the four or six on any LT trim level. Link told us, “We don’t limit your options, you can get 1LT or 2LT on both and RS package on both. We’re not gonna penalize somebody that wants one engine over the other.”

The added power of the LT1 along with the lowered curb weight might put the Camaro SS in a bit higher performance bracket than the Mustang GT, more in line with the Challenger SRT 392. We’ve already been bench racing around the office.

Like the Corvette, the Camaro will feature Active Rev Match in the SS, which uses a Tremec TR6060 six-speed, same as the fifth-generation Camaro. Active Rev Match blips the throttle on downshift for smooth shifting without any need to heel-toe. The 2.0L and 3.6L both use the Tremec TR3160 six-speed manual that doesn’t offer Active Rev Match. For the automatic-equipped 2016 Camaro, 2.0L and 3.6L models get the 8L45 eight-speed transmission that has more aggressive gearing than the 8L90 that comes with the SS. “We’ve had a lot of people jump out of the four- or six-cylinder cars with the eight-speed autos with smiles on their faces. The eight-speed works really well with the torque of those engines.”

Interior Improvements

The tachometer and speedometer are analog, positioned at either side of the instrument panel, with the area in between reserved for an 8-inch digital display that is customizable. It can be tailored to show a lap timer, lateral acceleration, oil pressure, oil temp, trans temp, audio-track listing, or navigation prompts and looks to be a direct descendent from the C7 Corvette Driver Information Center (DIC) that we all enjoyed. Since both cars we photographed were well-optioned, the main difference we noticed was that 2.0L and 3.6L cars use a 160-mph speedometer, while the SS gets a 200-mph speedometer.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro 20 12/36
The HVAC controls are arranged below another optional 8-inch touch screen, with four round vent pods in the dash, two near the doors and two in the center console. The aluminum bezel surrounding the middle two vents control the temperature, keeping the interior free of clutter. That’s sort of the theme inside, as dash buttons are minimized and the door panels are streamlined, with handles forward and high near the A-pillars with accent lighting running along the seam between black door trim and upholstery-matched trim.

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The available 8-inch touch screen allows users to toggle between audio, navigation, and menu screens for car personalization, including 24 different accent lighting color options. Ambient lighting can also be linked to driving mode, with Snow/Ice, Touring, Sport, and Track modes resulting ice blue, blue, red, and orange lighting, respectively. Accent lights in the door panels are joined by lights in the cupholders, around the touch screen, and in the doorsills. Like the Corvette, it seems that the DIC is more customizable than the touch screen. We weren’t able to find any sort of performance menu, although the cars we photographed weren’t production spec.

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We had no problem fitting our tallest editor—at 6 feet, 3 inches—in the front seat of the new Camaro. It’s only in the back seat where you’ll notice the reduced wheelbase. As with the current S550 Mustang, the rear seat won’t be comfortable if tall front-seat occupants need to have the seat adjusted far aft. Tall drivers and front-seat passengers will appreciate the upholstered center-console pads that protects against banged knees.

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Final numbers on weight, SAE certification on engines, and pricing have yet to be determined, and we haven’t had the opportunity to test Chevrolet’s claims that the 2016 Camaro SS will leave the 2015 SS 1LE in its wake. Link told us the suspension tuning is still ongoing, although he did offer that when it comes to Milford Proving Grounds lap times, “We are beating [the fifth-generation 1LE] with the same driver on the same day.” It looks like there are plenty of salvos left from Chevrolet in the ponycar war, and we can hardly wait to get seat time in a 2016 Camaro SS, in particualar.

Transmissions
Tremec TR3160 6-speed manual (2.0T and 3.6L) Tremec TR6060 6-speed manual with Active Rev Match (6.2L) Hydra-Matic 8L45 8-speed automatic (2.0L and 3.6L) Hydra-Matic 8L90 8-speed automatic (6.2L)
Gear ratios (:1)
First 4.40 2.66 4.62 4.56
Second 2.59 1.78 3.04 2.97
Third 1.80 1.30 2.07 2.08
Fourth 1.34 1.00 1.66 1.69
Fifth 1.00 0.74 1.26 1.27
Sixth 0.75 0.50 1.00 1.00
Seventh — — 0.85 0.85
Eighth — — 0.66 0.65
Reverse 3.99 3.28 3.93 2.90
Final Drive Ratio 3.27 3.73 3.27 (2.0L) 2.77 (3.6L) 2.77
Dimensions
2016 Camaro 2015 Camaro
Length (in/mm): 188.3/4,784 190.6/4,841
Width (in/mm): 74.7/1,897 75.5/1,917
Height (in/mm): 53.1/1,348 54.2/1,376
Wheelbase (in/mm): 110.7/2,811 112.3/2852
Front track (in/mm): 63.1/1,602 63.6/1,616
Rear track (in/mm): 64.2/1,631 63.9/1,622

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Jordo! · 05-16-2015, 05:53 PM

Wow -- the ol' hydramatic is still in these cars

Hmm. Well, I like the front fascia better, but I'm personally not in love with the thing (whereas, bizarrely, I found myself actually liking the new Mustang... not enough to get one, mind you...).

But it does sound improved over the previous iteration, and I can definitely see the appeal in that big V8!

Well, if you are in the enviable position of getting two great cars or one awesome car sounds like either way you'll be grinning ear to ear

7speed · 05-16-2015, 05:59 PM

I'll have to see it in person, but I think I like what they did with it.

Shedding at least 200 pounds and engines from 4cyl of 275 hp , to V6 of 335 hp and monster v8 at 455hp, seems like moves in the right direction.

05-16-2015, 12:49 PM	#212 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...A8StmmWTVnR0cA Becomes A Different Animal Comment Now Follow Comments General Motors GM +0.75%’ (GM) Chevrolet division is staging a high-performance soiree on Saturday to unveil the 2016 Camaro, the all-new, sixth generation of the iconic coupe that, with the Ford Mustang, helped establish in the late 1960s the hallowed era of go-fast, big-engined, “ponycars.” But the 2016 Camaro marks the end of an era as much as the continuation of a nostalgic automotive time. Yes, it’s still meant to go fast and be comparatively inexpensive – the two primary components of the original ponycar formula – but the 2016 Camaro is sure to be vastly more refined and civilized than any Camaro before it. Chevy would like the Camaro’s newly designed-in refinement to enhance its appeal to a wider range of new-car buyers. For the underpinnings of the all-new Camaro, GM engineers repurposed the company’s “Alpha” structure; Camaro aficionados and purchase intenders may not care about the savings this delivers to GM’s bottom line – what will matter to them is that Alpha was first designed as the foundation for a Cadillac, specifically the sharp-handling (albeit regrettably slow-selling) ATS compact coupe and sedan. The Alpha platform’s baked-in refinement and lithe handling, not to mention some 200 pounds less weight, should imbue the 2016 Camaro with attributes go-fast-in-a-straight-line ponycars traditionally have eschewed: agile cornering and a supple ride. In advance of its May 16 unveiling, Chevrolet had not yet allowed media outlets to show photos of the 2016 Camaro. But television network CNBC "mistakenly" broadcast images in its possession, this one showing the new but familiar Camaro front-end styling. In advance of its May 16 unveiling, Chevrolet had not yet allowed media outlets to show photos of the 2016 Camaro. But television network CNBC “mistakenly” broadcast images in its possession, this one showing the new but familiar Camaro front-end styling. Rear styling of the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro, again courtesy of CNBC’s unauthorized broadcast prior to the car’s “official” unveiling scheduled for May 16. Chevrolet’s veer toward musclecar refinement mirrors that of Ford Motor's F +1.38% (F) all-new 2015 Mustang, launched last fall with a similar emphasis on improved handling and a certain, let’s call it “upgrade,” in creature comfort. But there’s another new-age angle as well: recasting the ponycar recipe with at least a nod toward contemporary concerns regarding fuel economy. Although Chevrolet didn’t release all the details of the 2016 Camaro’s mechanicals in advance of Saturday’s unveiling, it’s probable that the all-new Camaro will, like the Mustang, include the option of – eek! – a four-cylinder engine under its lightweight hood. It wouldn’t be the first four-cylinder in the Camaro’s history, but it certainly would be the strongest. Beside the fact the Mustang currently offers the more fuel-efficient four-cylinder alternative, the main reason many speculate Chevrolet will offer the new Camaro with four-cylinder is that a strong-performing turbocharged four-cylinder already is in use by the mechanically related Cadillac ATS. Chevrolet already has confirmed the 2016 Camaro will be available with the ponycar-requisite rumbling V8. Last year, the current Camaro found slightly more than 86,000 buyers, outselling the Mustang for the fifth consecutive year. Through April of this year, however, the new-design 2015 Mustang, with 42,955 deliveries, had jumped well ahead of the Camaro’s 24,229 sales, as those interested in the Camaro may have held off in anticipation of the new sixth-generation model’s impending release. If the 2016 Camaro hits showrooms late this summer or in early fall, it may not have enough time to reel in the Mustang’s sales lead and retain its best-selling ponycar title. The other lonstanding Detroit-made musclecar, the Dodge Challenger, typically runs third in the sales column. Lighter, more powerful, more fuel-efficient, more refined. New technology has enabled the reinvention of the ponycar. Now what remains to be seen is whether the formula can succeed not only with the Camaro faithful (we predict it will) but gain ground in the crossover vehicle-obsessed U.S auto market. __________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980 Last edited by UNKNOWN_370; 05-16-2015 at 02:23 PM.

05-16-2015, 12:53 PM	#213 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	Jalopnik Thanks to CNBC, we know what the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro looks like a day early, and thanks to one intrepid insider, we have some of the car’s engine specs before anyone else. We also have GM’s internal talking points, which answer more questions and reveal certain issues they’re clearly concerned about addressing. This insider memo goes into more depth about the new Camaro’s technology, design and performance, and answers a lot of questions that will be on the minds of enthusiasts everywhere. (We asked a GM official for comment on this memo, and he said he had none.) For instance, they went with a turbo four at the bottom of the Camaro engine range, unlike Ford, because they thought that would make more sense to buyers. The V8 engine is now the LT1, sourced from the Corvette Stingray. Curiously, the fake intrepid questions from the press include someone asking about the “Iron Duke” four-cylinder engines of the past, which is something that didn’t even cross our minds. Turbocharged fourbangers are so common and so far removed from those Malaise Era powerplants it doesn’t seem like a reasonable comparison. And no, they don’t care about rear visibility, because previous-generation Camaro owners didn’t care about rear visibility if it came at the cost of the car’s silhouette. Sorry. You do get a standard backup camera though. There’s still a lot left in the air, like the Camaro’s exact weight, price, on sale date, and plans for performance variants like the ZL1 and Z/28. But we’re off to a good start. Technology • All-new Driver Mode Control, which tailors up to eight vehicle attributes – from the dual-mode exhaust to throttle progression • Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which is offered on the Camaro SS for the first time • Segment-exclusive, Interior Spectrum Lighting that offers 24 different ambient lighting settings – and offers a “car show” mode • High-definition, configurable color displays – including available dual 8-inch screens • Available wireless phone charging and next-generation Chevrolet MyLink with new smartphone projection Performance • GM’s award-winning Alpha architecture enables a more nimble, responsive driving experience o The new Camaro is at least 200 pounds lighter than previous model o Although based on Alpha, 70 percent of the components are unique to Camaro • The most powerful Camaro SS ever o 6.2L LT1with estimated at 440 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque • All-new 3.6L V-6 featuring direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and –for the first time – Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) o Estimated 330 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque • Most efficient Camaro ever, delivering more than 30 MPG highway o New 2.0L Turbo with an estimated 270 hp and 290 lb-ft • Handling and performance for the Camaro SS approaches that of the fifth-generation models’ track-capable Camaro 1LE package Design • More athletic-looking, sculptured exterior that complements the tighter, leaner architecture • Aerodynamically optimized design is the result of 350 hours of wind tunnel testing – with reduced drag on LT models and 30 percent improvement in lift downforce on SS • All-new, driver-focused interior with intuitive controls, flat-bottom steering wheel, and high quality materials throughout • Unique control rings around the air vents used for temperature and fan speed adjustments, eliminating the need for conventional buttons Expected questions: Q: When will the new Camaro: start production / go on sale / arrive at dealers? A: We are not ready to discuss specific timing, but can tell you we expect the first Camaros to arrive at dealers by the end of 2015. Q: How much will the Camaro cost? Will it be more/less than the current Camaro? A: We are not ready to announce pricing. I can tell you the current Camaro ranges from $23,000 to $43,000 and we expect the new Camaro will have a similar range. Q: Why is the Alpha-based Camaro “only” 200 pounds lighter that the old Camaro? The fifth-gen was so heavy, it should have been 500 pounds lighter. A: A 200 pound savings is actually quite remarkable: The Alpha-architecture is very mass-efficient, however the exterior dimensions of the new Camaro are within 2 inches of the predecessor. The team looked for every opportunity to save mass –from increased use of aluminum to shortening the suspension bolts to save a few grams. The result can be immediately felt behind the wheel – as the new Camaro feels incredibly light, agile, and fun to drive. Q: How fast will the 2.0L Turbo/V-6/V8 be 0-60/¼-mile/top speed/Lap times? A: It is too soon to discuss specific performance numbers, as we are currently finalizing the tuning and calibration of the new car. All I can tell you is the new 2016 Camaro SS is already posting better lap times than the 2015 Camaro 1LE. Q: When will theZ/28 / ZL1 / 1LE arrive? A: We are not ready to discuss products beyond 2016 model year for competitive reasons. However, I can tell you we plan to introduce new models and special editions at least every year. Q: Why would you offer a four-cylinder in the Camaro? Didn’t you learn your lesson with the Iron Duke? A: With the Gen2 Camaro, we learned buyers are not willing to sacrifice performance for fuel economy. As such, the new Camaro 2.0L Turbo is impressive performance: The 2.0L Turbo delivers 270 horsepower – which is more than any V-8 offered from 1971 to 1995 – and it’s paired with a lighter, more nimble chassis that makes the Camaro exceptionally fun-to-drive. Q: Why are you offering the four-cylinder as your base engine, and V6 as an option, when Mustang offers the V-6 as their base, and their EcoBoost as an upgrade? A: We felt 4-6-8 was a more logical progression for customers as they look for the balance of performance and efficiency that fits their needs. It’s important to note that Mustang positions their V-6 as a low-volume, low-feature model. To get a well-optioned car, Ford forces you to upgrade to the EcoBoost. We are taking adifferent tact, allowing customers to build a well-equipped Camaro with their choice of engines. Q : Why didn’t you fix the rearward visibility for the next-gen ? That was the single biggest complaint for the Gen 5. A: We talked to many Gen 5 customers about the visibility, and they made it clear they were not willing to accept changing the appearance of the Camaro’s iconic silhouette for the sake or rear visibility. We are using increased levels of technology to help with visibility, including a standard back up camera on all models, and available rear sonar. What do you think of the new Camaro now? __________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980 Last edited by UNKNOWN_370; 05-16-2015 at 02:56 PM.

05-16-2015, 03:02 PM	#214 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	__________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980

05-16-2015, 03:30 PM	#215 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	The v6 sounds sick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! __________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980

05-16-2015, 03:45 PM	#216 (permalink)
Jordo! A True Z Fanatic Join Date: May 2010 Location: nirvana Posts: 6,394 Drives: 2023 NATM Rep Power: 418	Errr I don't mean to be a dick when I say this, but it looks exactly the same to me... I finally had a chance to play with a new V6 'stang and was pleasantly surprised with the improved looks, seating, handling and braking, but a bit underwhelmed with the acceleration. Based on the listed changes, sounds like the Camaro really is just in competition with the Mustang. On that note, does their V6 need premium? The 'stang's V6 takes regular, and consequently, makes quite a bit less power. Guess I'll reserve judgment for later. Are you thinking of getting one, Unknown? __________________ Enjoy it. Destroy it. Last edited by Jordo!; 05-16-2015 at 03:48 PM.

05-16-2015, 11:32 AM	#211 (permalink)
b15 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Chicago Posts: 3,229 Drives: 4drz Rep Power: 36571	Hard to judge but it doesn't look much different or smaller.

05-16-2015, 04:21 PM	#218 (permalink)
DCNISMO Track Member Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: washington dc Posts: 995 Drives: Nismo Z Rep Power: 178	You want that z28 or a GT3. UNKNOWN_370 likes this.

05-16-2015, 04:32 PM	#219 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...93564037,d.eXY __________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980 Last edited by UNKNOWN_370; 05-16-2015 at 05:16 PM.

05-16-2015, 04:36 PM	#220 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	Perfect..... I like __________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980 Last edited by UNKNOWN_370; 05-16-2015 at 04:42 PM.

05-16-2015, 04:50 PM	#221 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	__________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980 Last edited by UNKNOWN_370; 05-16-2015 at 04:58 PM.

05-16-2015, 05:13 PM	#223 (permalink)
UNKNOWN_370 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: ny'r livn in tx Posts: 8,687 Drives: well over 130m.p.h. Rep Power: 14858	VVT V6 LT1 V8 2016 Camaro Unveiled: Exclusive First Look at the Sixth-Gen Camaro Written by Brandan Gillogly on May 16, 2015 Contributors: Jessica Walker Details On the Most Powerful Camaro SS Ever Built 2016 Camaro Unveiled: Exclusive First Look at the Sixth-Gen Camaro View All 36 Photos SHARE THIS ARTICLE FACEBOOK TWITTER GOOGLE+ EMAIL We’re standing outside an industrial warehouse near the intersection of Edsel Ford and Chrysler freeways in Detroit, not far from GM’s Hamtramck Assembly Center. What few windows the building has have been draped in tarps and taped up from the inside. All the doors are locked tight. We really want to get in, not just because it’s 40-something degrees and raining, but because we know the Reliable transport truck parked outside has unloaded two 2016 Camaros, sans camouflage, and they’re waiting for us inside. While never a huge departure from the established ponycar class, each previous Camaro generation came as a completely different style. The second-generation Camaro was much more European than the first, and the third was far lighter and compact. From the spy photos we’d seen of the 2016 Camaro, we expected a car very similar to the outgoing fifth-generation. From a distance, that may be the case, but the 2016 Camaro is entirely new, with only two emblems carrying over from 2015. Still, when we first saw it in the flesh, we immediately recognized the metallic charcoal gray car as a Camaro. Consider A Jaguar XK®. Find a Retailer. JaguarUSA.com/XK We spent more than 10 hours in and around two versions of the 2016 Camaro, photographing them from all angles, and then spoke with Aaron Link, lead development engineer for the sixth-generation Camaro. Link has been involved in developing the LSA-powered Cadillac CTS-V and has been on the fifth-gen Camaro team since just after its launch, when he worked on the development of the 580hp ZL1 Camaro. Here’s what we took away. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 2 2/36 Familiar Exterior Not quite as dramatic as the Corvette’s shift from C6 to C7, the Camaro’s progress is a lot like Porsche’s recipe for a 911 redesign: keep the style, trim some fat, and hone in on the handling. With such a positive response to the Camaro’s styling and strong sales for each of the past five years, Chevrolet knew it had something special and didn’t want to throw everything out, even though a new platform and powertrains were on the way. We were told that nearly every exterior dimension is within 2 inches of the previous model. Indeed, if you were to add the new sixth-gen to your garage, we’re pretty sure it could borrow your fifth-gen’s custom-fit car cover. Consider A Jaguar F-TYPE®. Find a Retailer 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 4 3/36 The car’s overall profile is similar, but lower and with an even more pronounced fastback look. Side windows are still short—at around 10 inches tall from the top of the door to the roof—and the trunk opening is still quite small, both concessions to the sleek design. When asked about the outward visibility, one of the fifth-generation Camaro’s biggest criticisms, Link admitted, “It’s certainly a hot button with people. Every time we’d do a clinic or styling exercises that have a bigger daylight opening, people universally said, ‘No, don’t do it. Don’t compromise the style.’” The sixth-generation car does have better forward and downward visibility, along with a roof-mounted frameless rearview mirror to help reduce blind spots. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 36 4/36 Super Sport cars get a more aggressive front fascia with a larger lower grille opening, brake cooling ducts, and unique LED daytime running light (DRL) treatment. We were told this fascia was developed with downforce in mind, while LT models will get a more subdued fascia with a smaller grille opening that reduces drag. The SS also gets a unique hood with two vents running parallel on either side of the hood bulge. Along with removing heat from the engine compartment, they also reduce lift. They’re farther forward and not as square as the “ice-cube trays” on the 1968 SS, but there’s a hint of the classic in their design. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 3 5/36 At the rear, the taillights also evoke 1968, as horizontal elements are divided into two sections. The rear fascia are identical on LT and SS, although rear spoilers differ, with SS getting the taller of the two. Both the Bow Tie on the rear edge of the decklid and the SS emblems on the right edge of the decklid are carryovers from the 2015 model, but a new “banner” fender emblem, similar to those on the 2015 Commemorative Edition, pays homage to the tricolor badges that were on the noses of Camaros beginning in 1970. All-New Chassis The move from Zeta to the Alpha chassis gave Camaro more flexibility in design, thanks to a lower cowl height. It’s similar to the chassis developed for the 2013 Cadillac ATS, although the front wheels were pulled forward to, as Link put it, “extract the sports car” from the platform. The Alpha platform is also more mass-efficient, resulting in a body shell that’s 136 pounds lighter than the previous generation while being 28 percent more structurally rigid. A solid foundation allows engineers to focus suspension geometry on maximizing handling without compensating for chassis flex. We asked what the Camaro team was shooting for on the sixth-generation: “The dynamics of the [fifth-generation] car evolved to be pretty damn good,” Link said. Trying to keep that handling and move it to a smaller, lighter package was the priority. “There were constraints on Zeta that we couldn’t overcome, ever.” 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 5 6/36 Not only is the Alpha weight-efficient, the 2016 Camaro is 2.3 inches shorter in length, 1.1 inch shorter in height, and the body is ¾ of an inch narrower with ½ of an inch narrower front track width, and 1/3 of an inch wider rear track width. The weight savings in the body shell also translated into less mass needed in the suspension and brakes, for less unsprung mass and better suspension response and steering feel. Front suspension uses a Macpherson strut with geometry that’s unique to Camaro. Chevrolet says the double-pivot lower A-arm design provides a more precise feel in conjunction with a quick-ratio electric power-steering system. Front control arms and links are aluminum, while a new five-link rear suspension uses steel links with lightening holes. Overall suspension weight was reduced by 26 pounds, which helped add up to more than 200 pounds of weight savings overall compared to a 2015 fifth-gen car. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 6 7/36 Like the C7 Stingray that promised to match the performance of the C6 Grand Sport package, the 2016 Camaro SS looks to record better lap times than the previous-generation SS 1LE, which is still in the running for the best bang-for-your-buck ponycar on the market, even as it ends its production run. Part of that improved performance likely comes from Magnetic Ride Control, the active suspension used in the Corvette and the fifth-generation ZL1 Camaro, which is now available for the first time in the Camaro SS. Toggling between the Snow/Ice, Tour, Sport, and Track modes changes the throttle progression, automatic-transmission shifting, power steering, and stability control, as well as the ambient lighting, dual-mode exhaust, and Magnetic Ride Control if equipped. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 41 8/36 Brakes are still on the large size with Brembo calipers and rotors available on LT and standard on SS models. Buyers of the LT package cars can opt for 12.6-inch front rotors with four-piston calipers and 12.4-inch rear rotors with single-piston sliding calipers. Camaro SS is equipped with 13.6-inch front rotors with and 13.3-inch rear rotors, all with four-piston fixed calipers. The LT cars will wear 18-inch wheels with Goodyear Eagle Sport all-season tires; SS cars will use Goodyear F1 Asymmetric 2 run-flats. The cars we photographed both used 245/40R20 sizes front and rear. Performance Powertrains Chevrolet is offering three engine choices at launch, each paired with eight-speed autos or six-speed manuals. The base engine is a 2.0L, turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder—option code LTG—which is the same engine you’d find in the Cadillac ATS and as a crate engine from Chevrolet Performance. It’s rated at 272 hp in both of those applications and has a broad torque peak producing 290 lb-ft between 3,000 to 4,600 rpm, with 90 percent of its torque available at 1,700 rpm. We’ve driven this engine in heavier applications than the 2016 Camaro and it feels stronger than 270 hp should, thanks to that torque production. Chevrolet claims this engine will propel the Camaro from 0–60 mph in “well under 6 seconds” while returning better than 30 mpg highway. That should make it slightly quicker than a V6 Challenger. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 42 9/36 Next in the engine line is a direct-injection, 3.6L V6 producing an estimated 330 hp at 6,800 rpm and 285 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. While the displacement is the same, this is an all-new engine architecture with wider bore spacing and a larger bore and shorter stroke than the previous 3.6L. A 3.6L, twin-turbo version of this engine powers the Cadillac ATS-V, which is also on the Alpha platform. We’re not saying that Camaro has a twin-turbo V6 in its future, we’re just saying that it fits in the engine bay and makes 455 hp. Link said it was kicked around during watercooler talk, but its output was close enough to the LT1 that a high-feature V6 might only serve to muddy the waters. Back to reality, this new 3.6L will mark the first time that a V6 Camaro has offered Active Fuel Management (AFM), disabling two cylinders under light load for improved fuel economy. With the 2015 Camaro V6 already rated at 30 mpg highway with the outgoing V6, we think this could be the second sixth-generation Camaro powertrain to return better than 30 mph highway. No surprise, the SS will come with the awesome, direct-injected LT1 V8 with an estimated 440 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. “The small-block V8 belongs in this car,” Link told us. It’s similar to the LT1 found in the Stingray, although the Camaro application means that 20 percent of its components are new, including tri-Y tubular exhaust manifolds. Automatic-transmission SS models will use AFM like the Stingray, shutting down four cylinders to run as a V4 under low-load driving conditions. We asked about any special engineering for the LT1 in the Camaro and Link pointed to the air/oil separator as, “an unsung hero of the car. We developed a legit air/oil separator for the LT1. That was near and dear to my heart. I spent a lot of time on that one.” As all Camaro LT1s will be wet-sump engines, Link told us the air/oil separator is cleverly packaged, so it’s hard to appreciate in the car. Its function is to keep oil out of the airbox and throttle-body—and therefore the combustion chamber—avoiding pre-ignition. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 31 10/36 Link was excited to point out the amount of cooling across the board on the 2016 Camaro. The radiator did shrink compared to fifth-gen, but the addition of outboard coolers and a high-powered electric fan in combination with improved airflow resulted in an overall cooling package that’s very efficient. “Water temp on these cars is just phenomenal, we’ve been really pleased.” Even during hard driving, cooling is consistent with “zero spark retard.” When we asked Link what options he’d be checking when he gets a 2016 Camaro of his own, he was quick to answer. “The one I gravitate to is the LT1 manual with the optional exhaust and magnetic dampers. The trim? 1SS, 2SS, I could go either way. For canyon-carving or a weekend track car, that’s a pretty sweet package.” 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 30 11/36 As for its chief competition, Ford places the Mustang’s 305hp, 2.3L, EcoBoost, four-cylinder turbo as a premium engine above the 300hp, 3.7L V6 that’s offered in base models. Chevrolet says its four-six-eight-cylinder engine progression makes more sense and will allow buyers to pick either the four or six on any LT trim level. Link told us, “We don’t limit your options, you can get 1LT or 2LT on both and RS package on both. We’re not gonna penalize somebody that wants one engine over the other.” The added power of the LT1 along with the lowered curb weight might put the Camaro SS in a bit higher performance bracket than the Mustang GT, more in line with the Challenger SRT 392. We’ve already been bench racing around the office. Like the Corvette, the Camaro will feature Active Rev Match in the SS, which uses a Tremec TR6060 six-speed, same as the fifth-generation Camaro. Active Rev Match blips the throttle on downshift for smooth shifting without any need to heel-toe. The 2.0L and 3.6L both use the Tremec TR3160 six-speed manual that doesn’t offer Active Rev Match. For the automatic-equipped 2016 Camaro, 2.0L and 3.6L models get the 8L45 eight-speed transmission that has more aggressive gearing than the 8L90 that comes with the SS. “We’ve had a lot of people jump out of the four- or six-cylinder cars with the eight-speed autos with smiles on their faces. The eight-speed works really well with the torque of those engines.” Interior Improvements The tachometer and speedometer are analog, positioned at either side of the instrument panel, with the area in between reserved for an 8-inch digital display that is customizable. It can be tailored to show a lap timer, lateral acceleration, oil pressure, oil temp, trans temp, audio-track listing, or navigation prompts and looks to be a direct descendent from the C7 Corvette Driver Information Center (DIC) that we all enjoyed. Since both cars we photographed were well-optioned, the main difference we noticed was that 2.0L and 3.6L cars use a 160-mph speedometer, while the SS gets a 200-mph speedometer. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 20 12/36 The HVAC controls are arranged below another optional 8-inch touch screen, with four round vent pods in the dash, two near the doors and two in the center console. The aluminum bezel surrounding the middle two vents control the temperature, keeping the interior free of clutter. That’s sort of the theme inside, as dash buttons are minimized and the door panels are streamlined, with handles forward and high near the A-pillars with accent lighting running along the seam between black door trim and upholstery-matched trim. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 25 13/36 The available 8-inch touch screen allows users to toggle between audio, navigation, and menu screens for car personalization, including 24 different accent lighting color options. Ambient lighting can also be linked to driving mode, with Snow/Ice, Touring, Sport, and Track modes resulting ice blue, blue, red, and orange lighting, respectively. Accent lights in the door panels are joined by lights in the cupholders, around the touch screen, and in the doorsills. Like the Corvette, it seems that the DIC is more customizable than the touch screen. We weren’t able to find any sort of performance menu, although the cars we photographed weren’t production spec. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 12 14/36 We had no problem fitting our tallest editor—at 6 feet, 3 inches—in the front seat of the new Camaro. It’s only in the back seat where you’ll notice the reduced wheelbase. As with the current S550 Mustang, the rear seat won’t be comfortable if tall front-seat occupants need to have the seat adjusted far aft. Tall drivers and front-seat passengers will appreciate the upholstered center-console pads that protects against banged knees. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro 44 15/36 Final numbers on weight, SAE certification on engines, and pricing have yet to be determined, and we haven’t had the opportunity to test Chevrolet’s claims that the 2016 Camaro SS will leave the 2015 SS 1LE in its wake. Link told us the suspension tuning is still ongoing, although he did offer that when it comes to Milford Proving Grounds lap times, “We are beating [the fifth-generation 1LE] with the same driver on the same day.” It looks like there are plenty of salvos left from Chevrolet in the ponycar war, and we can hardly wait to get seat time in a 2016 Camaro SS, in particualar. Transmissions Tremec TR3160 6-speed manual (2.0T and 3.6L) Tremec TR6060 6-speed manual with Active Rev Match (6.2L) Hydra-Matic 8L45 8-speed automatic (2.0L and 3.6L) Hydra-Matic 8L90 8-speed automatic (6.2L) Gear ratios (:1) First 4.40 2.66 4.62 4.56 Second 2.59 1.78 3.04 2.97 Third 1.80 1.30 2.07 2.08 Fourth 1.34 1.00 1.66 1.69 Fifth 1.00 0.74 1.26 1.27 Sixth 0.75 0.50 1.00 1.00 Seventh — — 0.85 0.85 Eighth — — 0.66 0.65 Reverse 3.99 3.28 3.93 2.90 Final Drive Ratio 3.27 3.73 3.27 (2.0L) 2.77 (3.6L) 2.77 Dimensions 2016 Camaro 2015 Camaro Length (in/mm): 188.3/4,784 190.6/4,841 Width (in/mm): 74.7/1,897 75.5/1,917 Height (in/mm): 53.1/1,348 54.2/1,376 Wheelbase (in/mm): 110.7/2,811 112.3/2852 Front track (in/mm): 63.1/1,602 63.6/1,616 Rear track (in/mm): 64.2/1,631 63.9/1,622 Read more: http://www.hotrod.com/features/1505-...#ixzz3aL6Sum3Z Follow us: @HotRodMagazine on Twitter \| HotRodMag on Facebook __________________ Favorite Quote. "I'm not gonna kill you... I'm just gonna Bash Your Face In" Jack Nicholson-"The Shining". 1980 Last edited by UNKNOWN_370; 05-16-2015 at 05:29 PM.

05-16-2015, 05:53 PM	#224 (permalink)
Jordo! A True Z Fanatic Join Date: May 2010 Location: nirvana Posts: 6,394 Drives: 2023 NATM Rep Power: 418	Wow -- the ol' hydramatic is still in these cars Hmm. Well, I like the front fascia better, but I'm personally not in love with the thing (whereas, bizarrely, I found myself actually liking the new Mustang... not enough to get one, mind you...). But it does sound improved over the previous iteration, and I can definitely see the appeal in that big V8! Well, if you are in the enviable position of getting two great cars or one awesome car sounds like either way you'll be grinning ear to ear UNKNOWN_370 likes this. __________________ Enjoy it. Destroy it.

05-16-2015, 05:59 PM	#225 (permalink)
7speed Track Member Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Dallas Posts: 697 Drives: 09 370 sports clone Rep Power: 13	I'll have to see it in person, but I think I like what they did with it. Shedding at least 200 pounds and engines from 4cyl of 275 hp , to V6 of 335 hp and monster v8 at 455hp, seems like moves in the right direction. __________________ 09 370z 6spd traded 1/12/15 for 15 Challenger RT 6spd

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