What is it? The Camaro convertible is another step in the resurrection of an iconic muscle car. (The fourth-generation Camaro was retired in 2002, along with the Pontiac Firebird.) The Camaro convertible on display in Detroit is topless version of the Camaro coupe concept unveiled at last year’s show. Racing toward production, the new Camaro will be rear-wheel drive. For the first time in the moniker’s history, the fifth-generation car will have a fully independent suspension, giving it a fighting chance at a decently well-controlled ride. The concept has a 6.0-liter aluminum V8 good for 400 hp and a six-speed manual transmission.
CR's take: We are beginning to warm to the styling, although the front end still looks like it's squinting. The convertible lines suit the car well, and all the flash that was missing with the latest incarnation of the Pontiac GTO is certainly well represented here. GM just needs to hurry up and get this car to production before Ford Mustang sales cool off too much, or competition like the Dodge Challenger crowds the market too much.
When will it be on sale? Coupe, approximately 2008. Convertible, 2009.
