GM has been spotted test driving a prototype version of the hot new 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 out on the Nurburgring in Germany. This is the performance version of the recently-announced 2016 model.
The ZL1 is the performance, track-ready version of the Camaro. And as you can see, the upcoming version will feature a much more aggressive body than the regular model. There appears to be a new front bumper bar with a huge intake centre state, lower skirting, and the new-look slimline headlights and thin grille.
Around the sides the skirting continues, while an elevated wing sits just above the rear deck. There’s also the trademark bonnet bulge at the front, and a slight ‘double bubble’ roof contour going on.
According to reports the 2017 ZL1 will come with a uprated version of the 6.2-litre supercharged V8, producing around 450kW, up from the outgoing model’s 432kW and 754Nm output, which runs on 7psi of boost pressure.
Interestingly, the prototype in the video below sounds like it is using a very quick-changing automatic transmission. Not only is it quick to swap gears, the gear ratios also appear quite close suggesting an eight- or even nine-speed auto. As a guide, the predecessor was available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed auto.
Like the regular version, the new ZL1 is likely to shed some weight. Up to 90kg was cut from the regular 2016 Camaro. This should translate to some savings for the ZL1 as well, resulting in even better performance. With the previous version capable of a 11.07-second quarter mile, there is a possibility the new model will be a stock 10-second car.
A full debut is expected to take place towards the end of this year or early in 2016. In the meantime, check out the video below for a preview, provided by cvdzijden YouTube channel.
I thought it was pretty well documented around the place that the newest 6.2L SC V8 from GM was the 485kW version (as in Corvette?) and that the 8-speed was locked and loaded for production as in we may even get it in our GTS (R?)? Is there another mega V8 being built specially for the Camaro at ony 450kWs?