We’ve waited. We’ve wondered. But finally, after long last, we have the first official pictures, official statements, and official numbers for the supercharged Camaro we’ve all been waiting for. It’s not the Z28 we thought it was, but instead GM is calling it the ZL1 Camaro. And it’s everything we dreamed it would be.
The unveiling at Chicago included other announcements such as production of 500 replica Camaro pace cars and Chevy’s return to IZOD racing. We’re here for the ZL1 though, and as everybody and their mother had already guessed, under the hood is the supercharged 6.2 liter LSA V8 engine, cranking out 550 horsepower and 550 ft-lbs of torque. This engine includes a sixth-generation Eaton supercharger, piston oil squirters, an intercooler and plenty more.
Backing up this badass engine is a six-speed manual Tremec TR-6060 transmission with increased torque capacity, dual clutches, and dual-mass flywheel. The dual-mode exhaust system changes the exhaust note depending on RPM’s passes from Corvette to Camaro, as does the Magnetic Ride Control that can alter the suspension between Tour and Sport modes, depending on your mood.
Then there are the looks. An aluminum hood features a functional air extractor and the front and rear fascias are designed to be both functional and aggressive. Yes, we get it, this is one bad ass Camaro. Frankly, it’s freaking awesome. But should GM have used ZL1, a name few people except muscle car collectors associate with Camaro, over the iconic Z28 moniker? Perhaps they have something else in store for Z28? Doesn’t matter, because we have the ZL1 now, and we’re pretty damn happy with it. Are you?