Chevrolet Camaro Zl1 2012

GM threw everyone a curve ball. It faked to the Z28 name, the automotive press bit hard, and it instead lobbed the ball over to the ZL1 designation. The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 recently debuted at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. It is replacing the SS as the brand’s highest-performing Camaro.

Where does the ZL1 name stem from? It is derived from the all-aluminum engine developed by GM in the late 60s and installed into a handful of regular production 1969 Camaros. Only 69 were built, and all have since achieved mythical status among enthusiasts, as they represent the pinnacle in Camaro performance. That is until now.

The Camaro ZL1 will be the fastest Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. Think of the ZL1 as a Cadillac CTS-V in a cheaper suit and thus requiring about $15,000 less funds to purchase. It utilizes the same 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine producing 550 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque. It also steals Magnetic Ride Control from Cadillac’s most impressive car. The ZL1’s Magnetic Ride system will include driver selectable modes—Tour and Sport—depending on desired driving style. Unlike the Cadillac, the Camaro ZL1 will only come with a six-speed manual transmission.

Camaro ZL1 features a braking system developed in conjunction with Brembo. The large 14.6-inch front rotors have six-piston calipers; the 14.4-inch rear rotors have four-piston calipers. ZL1 marks the entry of a new electric power steering system to Camaro. The engine does not incorporate a conventional hydraulic power steering pump and thus no engine power is used to turn a steering pump pulley, enhancing performance.

On the exterior, Chevrolet says it wanted to differentiate the ZL1 from other Camaros without adding too many decorative elements. Major elements of the ZL1’s design are a new front fascia—including front splitter, fog lamps, and an intake area around the fog lamp designed for brake cooling—and an aluminum hood with a raised, carbon fiber insert. The rear of the car includes a diffuser and spoiler. New rocker panels, wider tires, 20-inch wheels, and exhaust tips also help portray the car’s dynamics. The ZL1 badge appears on the grille, hood, and the brake calipers.

All of the Camaro exterior colors will be offered with the ZL1, but black is the only interior color.