2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Press release

Chevrolet introduced the production 2010 Camaro today. It is a heritage-inspired sports car for the 21 st century, combining great looks and performance; advanced technology and surprising efficiency – including 26-mpg estimated highway fuel economy. Sales begin in the first quarter of 2009.

Built on GM’s new, global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Camaro is offered in V-6-powered LS and LT models, as well as the V-8-powered SS. All models and powertrain combinations include fuel-saving six-speed transmissions.

“Camaro delivers all of the things that make Chevrolet such a revered, global brand,” said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. “It competes with the world’s best sports cars and does so with styling, fuel economy and value our competitors simply can’t match.”

Advanced powertrain technologies, including engines with direct injection and Active Fuel Management, enable a satisfying balance of exhilarating performance and good fuel economy.

“The new Chevrolet Camaro delivers a thoroughly modern, advanced package of performance, comfort and technology,” said Peper. “It’s a sports car for a new generation of enthusiasts that doesn’t forget the heritage that helped make the original a cultural icon . That is no small feat and it took a worldwide commitment to achieve it.”

Indeed, the 2010 Camaro exemplifies GM’s global development process. The design concept originated in the United States; engineering was directed by GM’s global rear-wheel-drive team in Australia; validation was conducted on roads around the world and assembly will take place at GM’s award-winning Oshawa facility in Canada.

Product highlights include:

• Sleek styling with contemporary cues and 10 available exterior colors
• LS and LT models offered with an advanced, 3.6L direct-injected V-6 engine with variable valve timing and a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions
• SS model offered with 6.2L V-8 – including fuel-saving Active Fuel Management on automatic-equipped combinations – and a six-speed manual transmission
• Four-wheel independent suspension system, including a 4.5-link rear suspension
• Variable-rate power steering with the rack mounted forward of the front axle for greater driver feel
• Four-wheel disc brake systems standard on all models, including four-piston Brembo calipers on SS models
•  Stabilitrak stability control system
•  StabiliTrak electronic stability control system — GM’s StabiliTrack electronic stability control system uses sophisticated vehicle sensors tied to the anti-lock braking system to help the driver maintain control during certain maneuvers.

The system provides increased vehicle control by continuously monitoring the car’s steering angle, individual wheel speed, brake pressure, lateral acceleration and yaw rate.

The information is then used to compare the direction the driver is steering with the vehicle’s actual path, so the system can make the necessary corrections to help the driver keep the vehicle on path.

and traction control standard on all models

• Competitive/Sport modes for the stability system offered on SS models, including launch control on SS models equipped with the six-speed manual transmission
• Family of 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels
• Detailed interior with heritage-inspired design, excellent attention to detail and available ambient lighting via LED light pipe technology
• Robust body structure and exceptional build quality
• Six standard air bags, including head curtain side-impact air bags and front seat-mounted thorax side air bags
• RS appearance package available on LT and SS, including HID headlamps with integrated halo rings, spoiler, specific taillamps and 20-inch wheels

The new Camaro also has technologies that enhance performance, comfort and convenience, including:

• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Premium Boston Acoustics audio system
• USB connectivity
• Ultrasonic rear parking assist (late introduction)
• Remote vehicle starting system
• OnStar

 OnStar — OnStar is the in-vehicle safety and security system created to help protect you and your family on the road. OnStar’s innovative three-button system offers: • 24-hour access to expertly trained, caring advisors • A connection to emergency assistance • Access to OnStar Hands-Free Calling
 * XM Satellite Radio

Additionally, details such as frameless door windows with automatic indexing glass contribute to the overall feeling of quality, substance and technical prowess.

Design details

With a design that is very faithful to the original concept, the 2010 Camaro is a 21 st century sports car that acknowledges its heritage. A long front dash-to-axle and short rear deck give the Camaro classic proportions, while a sleek windshield profile, wheels pushed to the corners and muscular fender forms are modern elements that reinforce its advanced engineering – and give the car a decidedly aggressive stance.

Elements such as a forward-V shape at the front of the car and “gills” in the rear quarter panels are distinctly Camaro cues, as are the broad rear fender “shoulders.” Those elements make the new Camaro instantly recognizable, but their execution is smoothly integrated into the contemporary exterior form. A family of large, 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels also contributes to the Camaro’s modern appearance.

“The new Camaro is just that – new,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. “We acknowledge the nameplate’s strong heritage in the design, but recognize that keeping this modern sports car relevant meant more than simply honoring a classic car. The line forms, stance and overall execution are consistent with other new Chevrolets.”

A well-executed balance of heritage, modern design and attention to detail also characterizes the Camaro’s interior. A pair of deeply recessed instrument binnacles that feature round gauges in square housings is a nod to classic Camaros, while an available ambient light package offers advanced LED light pipe technology to give the cabin a distinctive and inviting glow. Cloth upholstery is standard; heated leather-appointed seats are available.

Details such as large, chrome-trimmed controls, low-gloss surfaces and premium fabric or acrylic appliqués convey a richness that is unprecedented in previous Camaro models – and challenge its contemporary competitors. More great detail is evidenced in the available center-console gauge cluster, which takes its cue from a similar option on 1969 Camaros. It displays oil temperature, oil pressure, state-of-battery and transmission fluid temperature, all highlighted with modern LED backlighting.

Powertrains

An advanced, efficient 3.6L direct-injected V-6 with variable valve timing is standard on LS and LT models. Direct injection technology helps the engine deliver more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions. That means less fuel is consumed and lower emissions generated – including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.

The Camaro’s 3.6L engine also employs variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel economy across the rpm range. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 273 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm). A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 3.6L engine; a Hydra-Matic 6L50 electronically controlled six-speed automatic, with TAPshift control, is available.

The high-performance Camaro SS is equipped with a powerful 6.2L V-8, with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Standard, manual transmission-equipped models receive the LS3 engine, estimated at 422 horsepower (315 kW) and 408 lb.-ft. of torque (553 Nm). The LS3 debuted on the 2008 Corvette and uses high-flow cylinder heads based on the Corvette Z06’s LS7 engine to enable great low-end torque and high-rpm power. It is paired with a TR6060 six-speed transmission.

A new, L99 V-8 engine is used on automatic transmission-equipped SS models. It is based on the LS3 and carries all of its high-performance design features, but also includes GM’s fuel-saving Active Fuel Management feature. It enables the engine to run on only four cylinders during light-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising, to improve fuel economy. The V-8 is estimated at 400 horsepower (299 kW) and 395 lb.-ft. of torque (535 Nm); and it is matched with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed transmission. This combination delivers an estimated 23 mpg on the highway.

Body structure and chassis

The 2010 Camaro is built on GM’s global rear-wheel-drive architecture, with a strong body structure that enhances safety, quietness and handling. World-class build quality and attention to detail are enabled by features including one-piece body side stampings and very precise tolerances between body panels.

Front and rear independent suspensions are mounted to the rigid chassis, including a multi-link strut arrangement in the front with a direct-acting stabilizer bar and a double ball-joint configuration; and a unique, 4.5-link rear suspension that is double-isolated from the chassis for smoother, quieter driving experience.

Camaro offers two suspensions. LS and LT models receive an FE2 (sport) suspension, while the SS receives the FE3 (performance) suspension, including a lower ride height. Each is tuned to match the performance capabilities of their respective powertrains, as are their wheel-and-tire combinations.

A variable-rate rack-and-pinion power steering system mounts the rack forward of the front axle, for more direct action, an enhanced feeling of driver feedback and better weight balance.

Brakes and chassis control

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on all models. LS and LT models receive single-piston calipers all around, with mass-reducing aluminum rear calipers. SS models have larger rotors that are acted upon by four-piston, aluminum Brembo calipers at all four corners. They are designed to stand up to the severe use encountered on road-race tracks, delivering excellent feedback and pedal feel, as well as fade-resistant performance during racing.

GM’s StabilTrak electronic stability control system is standard and incorporates traction control. The system on SS models includes Competitive/Sport mode that is adjustable for performance driving, such as on a racetrack; it also includes a Launch Control feature on SS models with the manual transmission. It enables quicker, more consistent takeoffs during performance driving.

Safety

Designed to protect occupants before, during and after a crash, the Camaro offers a comprehensive system of safety features – starting with a robust body structure and integral safety cage around the passenger compartment. High-strength steel and ultra high-strength steel are used in key areas throughout the structure.

Safety technologies integrated in the Camaro include:

• Driver and front-passenger dual-stage air bags
• Dual-stage Air Bags — Dual-stage air bags are designed to inflate at high speed in serious crashes, but deploy with less force in minor-to-moderate crashes. The air bag system’s sensors determined the severity of the crash, signaling the appropriate deployment speed.
• Driver and front-passenger seat-mounted thorax side-impact air bags
• Head curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear seat occupants
•  Front seat safety belt load limiters and pre-tensioners

The front passenger protection system
Front Passenger Detection System — To avert potential injury risk from high-pressure airbag inflation, the front passenger detection system will suppress air bag deployment if a child or person of small stature is sensed sitting on the passenger seat. It also senses the presence of a child restraint on the seat, and will suppress airbag deployment accordingly.

The detection system uses a mat sensor embedded in the passenger seat that establishes the occupant’s weight and weight distribution. If this is below a certain level, the sensor alerts the SDM central control unit and the front passenger airbag will not deploy.
senses children and small-stature adults and suppresses air bag deployment when appropriate.

Standard OnStar service assists after a crash. With OnStar’s Advanced Crash Response System, the vehicle automatically sends a signal to OnStar for assistance, even if the air bags don’t deploy.

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Powertrain

When it comes to performance, the 2010 Camaro delivers in unexpected ways. An advanced 3.6L direct-injected V-6 with variable valve timing is standard on LS and LT models. It offers power and efficiency, with 304 horsepower (227 kW) and EPA-rated 29 mpg in highway driving.

The performance-oriented Camaro SS offers a pair of 6.2L V-8s, including one with Active Fuel Management that helps improve fuel economy by shutting down four cylinders during certain light-load driving conditions. That model delivers 25 mpg in EPA-rated highway fuel economy.

Indeed, the surprising fuel economy of the new Camaro enhances the driving experience. LS and LT models are EPA-rated at 18 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway with an automatic transmission; and 17 city and 29 highway with the manual transmission. Camaro SS with an automatic is rated at 16 city and 25 highway; and 16 city/24 highway with the manual transmission. Notably, none of Camaro’s models is subject to federal gas guzzler taxes.

For comparison, the more expensive 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers comparable horsepower to the Camaro SS with the manual transmission – 425 (317 kW) vs. 426 (318 kW) – and is EPA-rated at 14 city and 22 highway. When automatic-equipped models are compared, the Camaro wins again, with the Challenger SRT8 rated at 13 city and 19 highway.

All of Camaro’s engines channel their power to a responsive chassis that features independent front and rear suspensions, large, four-wheel-disc brake systems with standard ABS and GM’s StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.

3.6L direct injection V-6

Camaro’s 3.6L direct injection (DI) V-6 delivers more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions – including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions. Direct injection optimizes fuel delivery to the combustion chamber by introducing fuel closer to the combustion chamber. The fuel injectors are located beneath the intake ports and fuel is injected directly into the cylinder. The result is better efficiency in the combustion process leading to increased fuel efficiency at part and full throttle.

The 3.6L DI engine produces 304 horsepower (227 kW) at 5,900 rpm and 273 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm) at 5,200 rpm. Its 60-degree cylinder block and cylinder heads are cast aluminum to help reduce mass. A forged steel crankshaft provides optimal strength in the bottom end. The cylinder heads include four valves per cylinder, with a dual overhead camshaft design incorporating infinitely variable cam phasing.

A full dual exhaust system, with dual catalytic converters, helps reduce back pressure for optimum power. It also helps the engine reach operating temperature quicker to help burn off cold-start emissions. And despite a compression ratio of 11.3:1, the 3.6L DI engine is designed to run on regular gas.

Camaro SS’s 6.2L powertrains

Two 6.2L V-8 engines are offered in the Camaro SS, including the new L99 on automatic-equipped vehicles and the LS3 on manual-equipped models. Both engines are derived from the LS3 that debuted on the 2008 Corvette.

The 90-degree V-8 includes an aluminum block (with cast iron cylinder liners) and aluminum cylinder heads. The bottom end of the engine includes a new structural cast aluminum oil pan, with an oil capacity of 8.9 quarts (8.5 liters), while the two-valve cylinder head design is based on race-proven airflow dynamics. The intake valves measure 2.16 inches (55 mm) and exhaust valves are 1.60 inches (40.5 mm) in diameter.

The 6.2L engines also use a roller lifter-style camshaft with 5-percent greater intake-side valve lift than the Corvette’s LS3. It manages airflow that is channeled through an acoustically tuned intake manifold with a composite design that reduces runner-to-runner variation. The throttle bore diameter is 90 mm.

Horsepower for the L99 is 400 (298 kW) at 5,900 rpm and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm) at 4,300 rpm. The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) at 5,900 rpm and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm) at 4,600 rpm (all numbers are SAE certified). Output on the L99 is lower than the LS3 because of a slighter lower compression ratio (10.4:1 vs. 10.7:1) and design features of the Active Fuel Management System. The L99 is paired exclusively with an automatic transmission.

As with the 3.6L models, the SS models employ a full dual exhaust system, with two catalytic converters to reduce back pressure.

Transmissions

All Camaro models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The availability of a six-speed automatic transmission is a first for Camaro.

Standard with the 3.6L engine is the Aisin AY6 six-speed manual. It features lower shift effort and shorter throws for easier shifting and “fun-to-drive” characteristics. A hydraulic clutch and self-adjusting mechanism eliminates the need for adjustments throughout the lifespan of the transmission.

The Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic is optional with 3.6L-equipped models. It has an aggressive 4.07:1 first gear ratio that delivers strong launches, but also provides tall overdrive ratios that decrease engine rpm and provide better fuel efficiency. The 6L50 also includes driver shift control, with the driver taking control via paddle shifts located on the steering wheel after selecting the “M” mode on the console-mounted shifter.

Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS) is included with the 6L50. It lets the electronic transmission controller override the automatic gear selection during high lateral acceleration maneuvers.

On SS models, the new Tremec TR 6060 six-speed manual is paired with the LS3. It is designed to handle the high torque characteristics of the engine, while providing shorter throws, smoother gear synchronization and greater overall shift feel with little or no vibration. Its specs include a solid 290 mm flywheel and single-plate clutch. The final drive ratio for LS3 vehicles is 3.45:1.

The highest-capacity automatic ever in a GM passenger car, the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic, is matched with the L99 engine. Like the 6L50 transmission, it features driver shift control and PAS. The final drive ratio on all automatic-equipped Camaro models is 3.27:1.

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Ride and Handling

Fully independent front and rear suspensions are the underpinnings of the 2010 Camaro. The standard independent rear suspension is a first for Camaro and is designed to compete with the best in the world. It’s a 4.5-link system that includes a unique, L-shaped upper control arm that attaches to the knuckle at one end and incorporates a ride bushing in the rear.

Based on GM’s global rear-drive passenger car architecture, the Camaro sits on a 112.3-inch (2,852 mm) wheelbase, with an overall length of 190.4 inches (4,836 mm). The front track is a wide 63.7 inches (1,618 mm) for all models, while the rear track on LS and LT models is 64.1 inches (1,628 mm) and 63.7 inches (1,618 mm) on SS models.

Two suspension packages are offered: FE2 sport on V-6 models and FE3 performance with the V-8. The front suspension has a dual ball strut system, with a direct-acting stabilizer bar that measures 22.2 x 4 mm on FE2 and 23 x 4.2 mm on FE3. Hollow bars are used for mass savings. The front spring rates for FE2 models are 25 Nm, with wheel travel at 96 mm. FE3 models include a stiffer, 27 Nm spring rate, with wheel travel reduced at 84 mm.

Rear suspension features include high lateral stiffness for handling via three lateral ball joints per side. A sub-frame at the rear is double-isolated to minimize vehicle body motions and dampen road imperfections. The FE2 with a manual transmission includes a spring rate of 53 Nm, with wheel travel at 115 mm, and employs a limited-slip differential. The FE3 rear axle uses a limited slip differential on both manual- and automatic-equipped models; and the rear spring rate is increased to 66 Nm and wheel travel is reduced to 100 mm. Coil-over shock absorbers are used in the rear with a decoupled, hollow stabilizer bar. FE2 includes a 21.7 x 3 mm rear bar, while the FE3’s large bar measures 23 x 3 mm.

The axle halfshafts on all V-8 models and manual transmission-equipped V-6 models are 30 mm in diameter on the left side and 40 mm on the right side. This design feature helps reduce the oscillation of torque from side to side and reduces axle hop.

Brakes

Front brakes for LS and LT models include single-piston calipers with 321 mm x 30 mm rotors. For long life, performance and consistent feel, organic, non-asbestos compounds are used with FE2 brakes. At the rear are vented rear discs measuring 315 mm x 30 mm, with a single-piston aluminum caliper.

The SS front brake package includes Brembo 355 mm x 32 mm vented rotors with four-piston aluminum calipers. Semi-metallic brake linings are used at all four corners on FE3 models for superior fade resistance and pedal feel. The rear brakes are vented Brembos measuring 365 mm x 28 mm, with aluminum four-piston calipers.

Steering

The 2010 Camaro’s precise rack-and-pinion steering gives great driver feedback and cornering confidence. The design includes the rack mounted forward of the front axle centerline that enhances handling and provides a stiffer system, while maintaining a degree of lateral force that helps vehicle stability during turn-in. It also benefits noise and vibration characteristics. The steering ratio is 16.1:1 on all models, with 2.5 turns lock-to-lock. The turning circle diameter for all wheel-and-tire combinations is 37.7 feet (11.5 meters).

Chassis control systems

All Camaro models include a four-channel StabiliTrak electronic stability control system that incorporates anti-lock braking, traction control and an active braking system to control wheel slip, optimize traction and enhance stability in wet, snow-covered or icy roads.

All SS models have a competitive/sport mode that optimizes the electronic stability control system for competitive driving and track conditions. It provides a less governed level of stability control for expert driving on race tracks. The stability control system engages only in severe oversteer or extreme acceleration in this mode.

New for Camaro SS models with a manual transmission is Performance Launch Control that is enabled in the competitive mode. It is designed to control wheel slip to an optimal level, allowing hard accelerations at launch to achieve maximum grip and vehicle acceleration.

Hydraulic brake assist also is standard on all models. The system activates during emergency braking by detecting the speed and force the driver applies to the brakes. Under certain conditions, the hydraulic brake assist may activate the ABS more quickly and easily than vehicles without the feature.

Wheels and tires

Standard on LS models are P245/55R18 all season BFGoodrich touring tires mounted on 18 x 7.5-inch steel wheels. Optional wheels include 18 x 7.5-inch and 19 x 8-inch aluminum alloy wheels. On the optional 19-inch wheel, P245/50R19 Pirelli Pzero Nero M+S may be ordered.

For SS models, 20-inch wheels are standard, with tire sizes of 245/45R20 up front and 275/40R20 at the rear. SS models are equipped with Pirelli Pzero summer-only, Z-rated tires. Twenty-one-inch wheels and tires are available as accessories through Chevrolet dealerships.

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Pricing

Chevrolet today announced pricing for the all-new, 2010 Camaro. It starts at $22,995 MSRP for the V-6-powered LS model, and $30,995 for the V-8-powered Camaro SS (all prices include $750 destination charge). Customer ordering opened on Oct. 13, with production scheduled to start in first quarter of 2009.

“The wait is almost over,” said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. “The return of the Camaro gives sports car enthusiasts a reason to rejoice. It’s a 21 st century sports car with a distinctly American legacy.

More than 600,000 enthusiasts have requested information on the Camaro since its production was announced. Chevrolet is reaching out to give them the opportunity to be the first to order one.

The Chevy.com/Camaro Web site carries information regarding early ordering, along with vehicle packaging information, a specification sheet and anticipated frequently asked questions about the ordering process.

Production is scheduled to begin in mid-February at GM’s Oshawa, Ontario production facility, with dealership deliveries shortly thereafter. Complementing the Camaro’s introduction is a range of performance, appearance and convenience accessories – including 21-inch wheels and tires; ground effects and stripe kits; and even a classic-styled Hurst shifter – that customers can order and have installed at their dealership. In some cases, the cost of the accessories and their installation can be rolled into the monthly payments.

“My Own Worst Enemy”

Enthusiasts will see the new Camaro this fall as part of NBC’s new drama, “My Own Worst Enemy.” It stars Christian Slater as a man with two personalities – a suburban dad and covert spy – with the Camaro featured prominently, along with the new Chevy Traverse crossover. The show premiers Oct. 13, the same day ordering opens for the Camaro.

Camaro’s supporting role on “My Own Worst Enemy” follows its big-screen debut as the Autobot named Bumblebee in the blockbuster 2007 movie, “Transformers.”

World-class performance, American heritage

Built on GM’s new, global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Camaro is offered in V-6-powered LS and LT models, as well as the V-8-powered SS. All models and powertrain combinations are matched with fuel-saving six-speed transmissions. Advanced technologies, including engines with direct injection and Active Fuel Management, enable a satisfying balance of exhilarating performance and good fuel economy.

Camaro product highlights also include:

• Sleek styling with heritage cues and 10 available exterior colors
• Four-wheel independent suspension system, including a 4.5-link rear suspension
• Four-wheel disc brake systems standard on all models, including four-piston Brembo calipers on SS models
• StabiliTrak stability control system and traction control standard on all models
• Family of 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels
• Six standard air bags, including head curtain side-impact air bags and front seat-mounted thorax side air bags
• RS appearance package available on LT and SS, including HID headlamps with integrated halo rings, spoiler, specific taillamps and 20-inch wheels
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• USB connectivity
• Remote vehicle starting system
• OnStar
• XM Satellite Radio

Under the hood, Camaro LS and LT use a 3.6L engine with variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel economy. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 273 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm). A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 3.6L engine; a Hydra-Matic 6L50 electronically controlled six-speed automatic, with TAPshift control, is available. LS and LT models are estimated at 27 mpg in highway driving, for great fuel economy to complement their fun driving experience.

The high-performance Camaro SS is equipped with a powerful 6.2L V-8, with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Manual transmission-equipped models receive the LS3 engine, estimated at 422 horsepower (315 kW) and 408 lb.-ft. of torque (553 Nm). It is paired with a TR6060 six-speed transmission.

A new, L99 V-8 engine is used on automatic transmission-equipped SS models. It is based on the LS3, but also includes GM’s fuel-saving Active Fuel Management feature. It is estimated at 400 horsepower (299 kW) and 395 lb.-ft. of torque (535 Nm). It is matched with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed transmission that helps delivers an estimated 23 mpg on the highway.

Chevrolet is one of America’s best-known and best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $12,120 to $103,300.