Chevy experienced a great amount of success in 2012 with the launch of its ZL1- a high performance, track-oriented version of the Camaro. With the ZL1, Chevy was entering the battle of high-performance muscle-cars, using the ZL1 to compete against the Ford Mustang GT 500 and the Dodge Challenger SRT-8. Experiencing success with the ZL1 and after a recent refresh of the Camaro for 2017, Chevy has decided to follow through with a newly redesigned ZL1. The 2017 Camaro ZL1 is lighter, more powerful and arguably better looking than the previous generation.
The new generation comes stock with 640 HP and 640lb.-ft. of Torque, 60HP and 80lb.-ft. respectively, more than the previous generation. The power is generated from a supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 and transferred to the wheels via a 10 speed paddle-shift automatic or 6 speed manual. Helping put this power on the ground are 20-inch forged aluminum wheels wrapped in sticky Goodyear Eagle F1 supercar tires. Launch control will help get the ZL1 to 100km/h in about 3.5seconds, not bad considering a curb weight of 3,850lbs.
Helping the ZL1 handle like a true race car is the Magnetic Ride suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential. The suspension uses a fluid based suspension system to adapt to changes in road conditions and provide a more tighter and stiffer ride during aggressive driving. An electronic limited-slip differential helps cope with wheel-spin to provide more confidence inspiring handling. Standard technologies include Driver Mode Selector which tunes different settings in the car to match the driving situation and a dual-mode exhaust. Six-piston Brembo brakes up front help bring the vehicle to a stop.
Probably the most notable change to the ZL1 besides the boost in power is the redesigned exterior. The new ZL1 looks a lot more streamline and rounded off compared to its big, bulky predecessor. A new grille, front splitter and spoiler give this generation a more track-ready look. Inside the cabin are two Recaro seats and two rear seats (a 2+2 setup) along with a suede wrapped flat bottom steering wheel. It even includes technology such as a heads-up display and performance logger.
Overall, the new ZL1 is meant to provide a step up over the last generation in a package that is suitable for daily driving and track-ready, when you are. The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 goes on sale later this year.