Chevrolet to add 640bhp ZL1 to Camaro line-up

The year 2017 will see the ZL1 edition of the sixth generation Camaro, one of the most iconic muscle cars ever. The ZL1, the most powerful production Camaro yet, will make its public debut this March at the 2016 New York Auto Show.

Like the previous Camaro ZL1, the 2017 model too uses a 6.2-litre supercharged V8 which belts out 640bhp, 60bhp up on its predecessor. The engine’s heady 88.48kgm of torque is channelled to the rear wheels via either a six-speed manual, or a 10-speed, paddle-shifted automatic gearbox. The additional horsepower and a lighter body also lend the new ZL1 with a power-to-weight advantage over the preceding ZL1. Braking duties are handled by Brembo’s six-piston callipers up front, and four piston callipers at the rear. The car is rides on 20-inch forged aluminium wheels wrapped in summer-only track tyres developed by Goodyear, and it’s on magnetic suspension that adjusts up to 1,000 times per second.

Interiors get Recaro performance seats, and red stitching on the upholstery. Tech inside includes General Motor’s Performance Data Recorder, which comes with a built-in camera and a GPS receiver that allows for location-based track maps. The car’s infotainment system also comes equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Wi-Fi connectivity.

The ZL1 goes against horsepower icons like the Ford Mustang Shelby 350 and the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat. While the Ford Mustang will solely lay claim to the 'American Muscle' tag in India upon its launch, it would be a treat to see Chevrolet launch the Camaro as a haloed model here.